Welcome to a game-changing recipe that will make your weeknights a breeze. Who says you can’t have tender, flavorful steak tips without the fuss? This slow cooker method is here to prove them wrong, delivering mouthwatering results with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the steak tips into tender, juicy bites.
- A simple marinade infuses the meat with deep, savory flavors that develop over hours.
- Perfect for busy schedules, this recipe requires just a few minutes of prep in the morning.
- Versatile enough to serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite veggies.
- Leftovers? They taste even better the next day, making meal planning a snap.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef sirloin tips, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak Tips
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add the steak tips to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Transfer the marinated steak tips and any leftover marinade into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, giving everything a gentle stir to combine. Set your slow cooker to low and let the magic happen for 6-8 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the steak tips are tender and the sauce is to your liking, it’s time to serve. Spoon the steak tips and sauce over your choice of sides, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Dig in and enjoy the fruits of your (minimal) labor!
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, consider searing the steak tips in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds a delicious caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but keep in mind that the flavors won’t be as pronounced. Lastly, for those who love a bit of heat, adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade will give the dish a nice kick.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the beef broth for red wine to add a rich, complex flavor to the sauce.
- Add mushrooms and onions during the last hour of cooking for a hearty, vegetable-packed version.
- Use chicken broth and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangier twist.
- For a sweeter profile, increase the brown sugar to 1/2 cup and add a tablespoon of honey.
- Substitute the steak tips with chicken thighs for a poultry-based alternative that’s just as tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin tips are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chuck roast or round steak. Just keep in mind that tougher cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cooking on high will reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 hours. However, slow cooking on low allows the flavors to meld more deeply and results in more tender meat.
Summary
This slow cooker steak tips recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.