Are you craving a delicious, restaurant-quality steak dinner but short on time and intimidated by the grill? Then this slow cooker sirloin steak recipe is your answer! This easy recipe transforms a humble sirloin steak into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. It's the perfect healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the sirloin steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the steak.
Step 2: Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended)
For an extra layer of flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds a delicious crust.
Step 3: Slow Cooker Time
Place the seared (or unseared) steak in your slow cooker. Pour the beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce over the steak. Add the bay leaf.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Slice against the grain and serve with the delicious pan juices.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the steak for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 130-135°F is ideal for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, and 150-155°F for medium-well.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Sirloin: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to the spice rub.
- Mushroom Sirloin: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the steak and liquid.
- Peppercorn Sirloin: Use cracked black peppercorns instead of ground pepper for a more robust flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your steak and added ingredients. However, a general estimate for a 6-ounce serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This slow cooker sirloin steak recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes made simple, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy!