Are you dreaming of a delicious, healthy dinner that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This slow cooker sirloin steak recipe is your answer. Forget tough, chewy sirloin – this method delivers incredibly tender, flavorful steak with practically no hands-on cooking time. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and impressive enough for a weekend gathering. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a fantastic balance of taste and convenience. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying slow cooker recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak (about 1-inch thick), trimmed of excess fat
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended): For an extra layer of flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the sirloin steak on all sides for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps seal in the juices and adds a delicious crust.
-
Layer the Ingredients: Place the sliced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the seared (or unseared) sirloin steak. Sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary over the steak.
-
Add the Liquid: Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the slow cooker. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
-
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your slow cooker.
-
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, carefully 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. Thicken the cooking liquid (au jus) by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes if desired. Slice the steak against the grain and serve with the delicious pan juices.
Tips for Success:
- Choosing Your Steak: Look for a sirloin steak that’s evenly thick. Avoid steaks with excessive fat or discoloration.
- Don't Overcook: Sirloin can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 145°F (63°C) for medium-well.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Mushroom Sirloin: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Top the steak with a pat of garlic herb butter during the last hour of cooking for extra richness.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to the cooking liquid during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy gravy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This slow cooker sirloin steak recipe is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create healthy meals and delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and impress your family and friends with this simple homemade cooking technique! It's one of the best recipes for a weeknight meal.