Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak
Honestly, this is one of those beef recipes I love when I want something hearty without spending hours standing in the kitchen. The slow cooker does most of the work, turning the beef tender and flavorful while the garlic, butter, and seasonings create a rich, savory sauce.
I usually serve this steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or some roasted vegetables. The beef comes out juicy and beautifully browned, and the buttery juices are too good to waste!
Ingredients
- 2 lb beef steak or thick-cut beef pieces
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
- Optional: ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
Step-by-Step Method
1. Season the Beef
Pat the beef dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until nicely browned.
I usually don’t skip this step because that golden crust adds so much extra flavor.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat slightly and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30–60 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the seared beef into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then spoon the garlic butter over the top.
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
- Low: 5–6 hours
- High: 2½–3½ hours
Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness and cut of beef. Cook until the beef reaches the tenderness you prefer.
6. Finish and Serve
Carefully remove the beef and spoon some of the buttery juices over the top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Tips
- Sear first: Browning the beef gives it a much richer flavor.
- Don’t drown the beef: You only need enough broth to create flavorful juices.
- Use fresh garlic: It gives the butter sauce a much better flavor than garlic powder alone.
- Check early: Different cuts of beef cook at different speeds, so start checking before the suggested cooking time is finished.
- Let it rest: Allow the beef to rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices can settle.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker steak goes especially well with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered rice
- Garlic roasted potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Corn on the cob
- Fresh garden salad
- Crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter juices
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
Based on 6 servings; values will vary depending on the beef cut and amount of butter used.
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak is simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. I love that most of the work happens in the slow cooker, while the garlic and butter create incredibly rich juices around the beef. Honestly, once you try this method, it’s an easy recipe to keep in your regular dinner rotation.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this without searing the beef?
Yes. You can put the seasoned beef directly into the slow cooker, but searing it first gives the finished dish a deeper, richer flavor and better color.
2. What cut of beef is best?
Sirloin, chuck steak, chuck roast cut into pieces, or other well-marbled steak cuts can work. For especially tender results, choose beef with some marbling.
3. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, onions, carrots, and potatoes are excellent additions. Add vegetables according to how long they need to cook.
4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little hot sauce to the garlic butter for extra heat.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with some of the leftover juices to help keep the beef moist.
