Easy Crockpot Steak and Potatoes Recipe | Slow Cooker
As autumn winds blow, nothing beats the smell of a warm, home-cooked meal. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Easy Crockpot Steak and Potatoes recipe. It’s a hit with my family.
My grandma’s slow-cooked beef and potatoes were a staple at our dinners. The beef was tender, and the potatoes were full of flavor. Now, as a busy parent, I love making this dish in my slow cooker.
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Why This Slow Cooker Steak and Potatoes is Perfect for Family Dinners
Preparing hearty family dinners can be a fun but time-consuming task. Luckily, a crockpot makes it easy to cook tender meat recipes and use crockpot cooking hacks. This slow cooker steak and potatoes dish is ideal for hearty family dinners on busy weeknights.
Benefits of Slow Cooking Steak
The slow cooking method makes even the toughest beef tender. This recipe uses 1 pound of stew meat or your favorite cut. After 7 to 8 hours of cooking, it becomes incredibly tender.
Time-Saving Benefits
This slow cooker recipe saves a lot of time. You can prep the ingredients in the morning and let the crockpot cook while you’re busy. It only takes 10 minutes to prep, and the crockpot does the rest. You’ll have a delicious hearty family dinner ready by the end of the day.
Cost-Effective Meal Solution
This recipe is also budget-friendly. It uses affordable beef and a 1.5-pound bag of baby potatoes. Each serving is nutritious and balanced, with tender meat, carbs, and vitamins.
This slow cooker steak and potatoes dish is great for busy families. It’s tender, convenient, and affordable. You can also customize it with different seasonings and veggies. It’s a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect flavorful potato sides and a satisfying meal, you’ll need some key items. Here’s what you’ll need for the delicious Slow Cooker Steak and Potatoes recipe:
- 1.5-2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 stick of unsalted butter, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of minced garlic
- Seasonings: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning
- Olive oil for searing the beef (optional)
- A slow cooker or crockpot, 6 to 8 quarts in size
- A skillet for searing the beef (optional)
- Basic kitchen utensils like a sharp knife, cutting board, and spoon
For a complete meal, add a large onion, roughly chopped. It will make a great aroma and add flavor to your meal.
“The key to a successful slow cooker meal is selecting the right cut of beef and pairing it with tender, flavorful potatoes.”
With these simple ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a comforting Slow Cooker Steak and Potatoes dish. Your family will love it.
How to Choose the Best Cuts of Beef for Your Crockpot
Choosing the right cuts of beef is key for tender meat recipes like crockpot steak and potatoes. Not all cuts are the same. Some are better for slow cooking in a crockpot. Let’s look at the best steak cuts, how to pick quality potatoes, and essential seasonings to make your dish great.
Best Steak Cuts for Slow Cooking
For the tastiest and tender results, choose these beef cuts:
- Flank steak
- Chuck roast
- Stew beef
- Round steak
- Flat iron steak
These cuts are tougher but less expensive. They become tender and juicy when slow-cooked in the crockpot. They turn into tender meat recipes that melt in your mouth.
Selecting Quality Potatoes
Choose quality potatoes like Yukon gold baby potatoes to go with your meat. Look for firm, blemish-free potatoes with smooth skin. These potatoes will soak up all the juices from the slow-cooked steak.
Essential Seasonings Guide
Season your crockpot steak and potatoes well with these essentials:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
For more flavor, add Italian seasoning or other herbs and spices. Let the flavors mix during the slow cooking.
By picking the right beef, potatoes, and seasonings, you’ll make a delicious and tender meat recipe. It’s perfect for your crockpot.
Easy Crockpot Steak and Potatoes Recipe
Make a tasty and easy one-pot meal with this easy crockpot steak and potatoes recipe. It’s a slow-cooked dish with tender beef, baby Yukon gold potatoes, and tasty seasonings. It’s a comforting dinner that everyone will enjoy.
This recipe feeds 4-6 people and cooks in about 6 hours and 15 minutes. Each serving has lots of protein and potassium, with around 669 calories.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- 1.5 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1/2 cup butter
- Olive oil
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs)
To make this easy crockpot steak and potatoes recipe, layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Let the flavors mix for several hours. You’ll get a hearty, comforting meal perfect for any day.
Choose the Instant Pot or traditional slow cooker for this one-pot meal. It’s sure to be a hit with your family. Enjoy the tender beef, flavorful veggies, and a rich gravy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty crockpot steak and potatoes dish is simple. Follow these steps to get a meal that’s tender and full of flavor every time.
Preparation Phase
First, season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also sear the beef in a hot skillet for extra flavor. Then, cut the potatoes into 2-inch cubes and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cooking Process
Start by placing sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the seasoned beef on one side and the potatoes on the other. Place butter cubes on top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The beef should be tender and reach 145°F.
Final Touches and Serving
After cooking, check if the beef is tender. If you want a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the crockpot. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes. Serve the steak and potatoes hot, garnished with parsley or chives if you like.
Tips for Perfect Tender Steak Every Time
Getting a tender steak every time you cook is the dream for many. Luckily, it’s easy with a few simple tips. These will help you make the most tender tender meat recipes in your slow cooker. Follow these steps for the most succulent steak dishes.
- Sear the steak bites before adding them to the crockpot. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious caramelized flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning the steak. Work in batches to ensure even searing.
- Cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours to maximize tenderness. If cooking on high, reduce the time to 3-4 hours, but the meat may not be as tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for a perfect medium-rare doneness.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, keeping it moist and tender.
By following these simple tips, you can consistently achieve tender meat recipes that melt in your mouth with every bite. Enjoy the delicious results of your slow-cooked steak and potatoes dish!
Cooking Method | Time | Tenderness |
---|---|---|
Crockpot on Low | 6-8 hours | Maximum Tenderness |
Crockpot on High | 3-4 hours | Slightly Less Tender |
Storage and Leftover Management
Learning how to store and reheat your Crockpot Steak and Potatoes is crucial. It helps you enjoy your slow-cooked meal for days. With a few easy tips, you can keep your dish fresh and flavorful.
Proper Storage Methods
First, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the flavors in and prevents drying. You can safely store it for 4-5 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers. This way, you can store it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Guidelines
Reheating your Crockpot Steak and Potatoes is easy. Use the microwave for quick heating. Stir between each interval until it’s hot. If it’s dry, add a bit of beef broth.
Or, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. This method keeps the meat tender and potatoes perfect. Stir occasionally as it warms up.
By following these tips, you can add your Crockpot Steak and Potatoes to your meal prep. This way, you’ll have tasty meals ready all week long.
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
Looking to enhance your slow-cooked steak and potatoes? A variety of tasty potato sides and comforting recipes can do the trick. From classic dishes to creative twists, these pairings will make your family dinner satisfying and well-rounded.
For a simple yet tasty side, try a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus with parmesan cheese adds color and texture. If you prefer something heartier, slow cooker green beans or instant pot rice pilaf are great options.
- Parmesan crusted asparagus
- Honey roasted carrots
- 30-minute homemade rolls
For a true comfort food experience, pair your steak and potatoes with mashed or cheesy scalloped potatoes. The rich, buttery flavors of the main dish will be perfectly complemented by these sides.
“The combination of the tender steak, creamy potatoes, and variety of side dishes made this meal absolutely delicious. It’s become a new family favorite!”
When choosing side dishes, remember to let the slow-cooked steak and potatoes be the main attraction. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.
Conclusion
The easy crockpot steak and potatoes recipe is a hit for busy families. It’s simple, convenient, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for any family dinner, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This dish offers tender steak and perfectly cooked potatoes in every bite. You can adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. It’s also great because it saves time and money, making it perfect for busy homes.
Try this easy crockpot steak and potatoes recipe for a delicious meal. It’s a great way to bring your family together. With its simplicity, flavor, and convenience, it’s sure to become a favorite.