Crockpot Mississippi Steak Bites are super easy and full of flavor! Tender beef chunks slow-cooked with zesty ranch, pepperoncini, and a bit of butter make this dish a real treat.
Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I just toss it in the crockpot and let time do the magic—perfect for busy days when I want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Steak: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it turns tender over time. If you can’t find it, try brisket or round steak as substitutes. I personally love chuck for its rich flavor.
Ranch Seasoning: This adds great flavor! If you’re avoiding ranch mix, you can use homemade blends with dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. Experimenting with spices is always fun!
Au Jus Gravy Mix: For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gravy mixes. You can also use beef broth as a base and thicken it with cornstarch if you prefer a homemade approach.
Pepperoncini Peppers: They bring a nice tang. Don’t have them? Try banana peppers or even sliced jalapeños for some heat. I’ve really enjoyed the added kick from jalapeños before!
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps the flavors balanced. If you’re looking for dairy-free, use a butter substitute like coconut oil or vegan butter, which works nicely!
How Do I Ensure My Steak is Tender and Flavorful?
For tender, flavorful steak bites, the key is in the cooking process. Using the slow cooker allows the beef to absorb all the spices and moisture over time.
- Start by placing the chuck steak in a single layer for even cooking.
- Sprinkle the ranch and au jus mixes evenly to coat the beef nicely.
- Add the pepperoncini and butter on top—don’t skip the butter, as it adds richness!
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Low and slow usually gives the best results.
- Before serving, mix everything gently to combine the flavors without breaking up the meat.
This hands-off method makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready when you are!
How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 2 pounds beef chuck steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (about 1 oz)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers, sliced (plus 2-3 tablespoons juice)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
For Serving:
- Sweet slider rolls or sandwich buns
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and requires 6-8 hours of cooking on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day, as you can set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Steak:
Start by placing the cubed beef chuck steak at the bottom of your crockpot. Try to arrange it in an even layer for better cooking.
2. Adding Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the beef. Make sure every bite is tasty! Then, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers on top of the steak. Drizzle some pepperoncini juice over everything for an extra kick of flavor.
3. Dot with Butter:
Take your pieces of unsalted butter and dot them on top of the mixture. This will add richness and depth to the sauce as it cooks.
4. Cooking Time:
Now, cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is super tender and the sauce is thick and delicious!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, gently stir the mixture to combine all the flavors. Then, serve it hot over slider rolls or sandwich buns. It’s perfect for a fun, casual meal!
6. Garnishing:
To make your dish look even more appealing, garnish it with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions. They’ll add a fresh pop of color!
7. Enjoy!
Now, take a moment to savor the amazing flavors of your Crockpot Mississippi Steak Bites. Each bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. If starting from frozen, cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Just ensure it’s broken into smaller pieces after thawing if you want it to cook evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want more heat, add sliced jalapeños in addition to or instead of the pepperoncini peppers. You can also use hot sauce or red pepper flakes for extra spice!
What Should I Serve with Mississippi Steak Bites?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sweet slider rolls or sandwich buns. For a side, consider serving it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty option!
