Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Steak Bites for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To maximize the flavor of the steak bites, consider searing the beef cubes in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step creates a Maillard reaction on the surface of the meat, adding a layer of depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet bourbon glaze. While this is not strictly necessary for the recipe, it is a great way to enhance the overall complexity of the dish.

If you find that the sauce is too sweet for your preference, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The acidity helps to cut through the richness of the barbecue sauce and balances the sweetness of the bourbon.

Always taste the sauce carefully before adjusting, and add small amounts at a time to ensure the flavors remain harmonious and the sauce does not become too thin or watery.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Steak Bites: Add a tablespoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue mixture before pouring it over the beef for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the bourbon.
• Garlic and Herb Version: Incorporate minced garlic and a tablespoon of dried thyme or rosemary into the slow cooker along with the onions to add an earthy, aromatic dimension to the final dish.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist and prevent them from absorbing other aromas in the refrigerator. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a tablespoon of water or broth when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

Ensure the leftovers are cooled completely before sealing the container, but do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours to ensure food safety.

These steak bites are an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a saucepan on the stove over low heat or back into the slow cooker on the warm setting. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep throughout a busy work week.

Serving ideas

Serve these bourbon glazed steak bites hot, directly from the slow cooker or arranged on a large platter for a family-style meal. The glossy sauce makes them visually appealing, so a simple garnish like fresh chopped parsley or green onions can provide a vibrant contrast to the dark glaze.

Because the dish is rich and savory, it pairs exceptionally well with neutral side dishes that can soak up the extra sauce, such as mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

For a more casual presentation, these steak bites can be served with toothpicks as a hearty appetizer during a gathering. The bite-sized nature of the beef makes them easy to eat, and the rich barbecue flavor is always a crowd-pleaser.

If serving as a main course, consider pairing the beef with a crisp garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or carrots to provide a balanced texture and freshness to the overall plate.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Steak Bites for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 1 packet steak seasoning
• 1 cup bourbon barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Place the cubed sirloin steak into the base of the slow cooker, ensuring the pieces are spread out in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the chopped sweet onions over the steak cubes. Sprinkle the entire packet of steak seasoning evenly over the top of the onions and beef to ensure all ingredients are well-coated.
3. Pour the bourbon barbecue sauce over the seasoned meat and onions. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat for four hours until the steak is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, ensure the internal temperature of the steak reaches 145°F (63°C). Turn off the slow cooker and allow the meat to rest for at least 3 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.