Crock Pot Steak and Potatoes

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Crock Pot Steak and Potatoes. As the day winds down and exhaustion sets in, the idea of a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself is a welcome reprieve. This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked goodness, with tender ribeye steaks paired with savory baby gold potatoes, all infused with the rich flavor of French onion soup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, and the best part? You can set it and forget it!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

You might be wondering what makes this particular recipe stand out. For starters, Crock Pot Steak and Potatoes is a wonderful one-pot meal that is incredibly simple to prepare—ideal for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The slow-cooking method ensures that the steaks become melt-in-your-mouth tender while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s budget-friendly too, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

“I made this dish last Sunday and my family couldn’t stop raving about the flavors! The ribeye was so tender, and the potatoes soaked up all that goodness. A new family favorite!” — Sarah D.

The Cooking Process Explained

Let’s dive into how this recipe comes together. The beauty of using a slow cooker is simplicity combined with great flavor. You’ll start by prepping a few key ingredients and then layering them in the slow cooker before letting them do their magic. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

Optional: Sear the steaks to enhance their flavor.
Season the steaks generously with seasoning.
Arrange everything in your slow cooker.
Let it cook low and slow or on high for a perfectly tender meal.
Garnish and serve for an unforgettable dining experience.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items to create this hearty dish:

2-3 lbs ribeye steaks – Tender and flavorful cuts of meat.
1.5 lbs baby gold potatoes (halved) – These add texture and absorb the savory juices.
1 packet of French onion soup mix (dry) – Elevates the flavor profile effortlessly.
½ cup unsalted butter (sliced into pats) – Richness and moisture right where you need it.
Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings for enhanced taste.
Optional: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Feel free to experiment with the potatoes; red or Yukon gold varieties work beautifully too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crock Pot steak and potatoes dish ready to serve

Optional: Sear the steaks. In a large skillet, heat some oil or a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for a couple of minutes on each side—this step locks in flavors but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.
Season the steaks. Generously sprinkle salt, pepper, and half of the dry onion soup mix on both sides of the steaks.
Layer in the slow cooker. Place the seasoned steaks at the bottom of a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Arrange the halved potatoes around and on top of the steaks.
Add the remaining soup mix. Sprinkle the leftover dry soup mix evenly over the meat.
Top with butter. Distribute the sliced pats of butter generously on top of the steaks and potatoes for a rich finish.
Cook. Cover and cook on low for 5-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the steak to be thoroughly cooked and incredibly tender—keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the steak thickness.
Garnish and serve. Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately with a refreshing side salad or steamed vegetables.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving this dish is as easy as it is satisfying. For a delightful presentation, plate the steak alongside a heaping spoonful of the buttery potatoes, drizzling any leftover juices over the top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli to balance out the meal. You could also serve with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

After a delicious meal, you may have leftovers to consider. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up gently in the microwave, or for best results, place it in a saucepan over low heat. If you want to keep your meal for longer, it’s safe to freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it down completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Sear for Extra Flavor: Although optional, searing your steaks before slow cooking can add an extra layer of flavor. It’s worth taking those few extra minutes!
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Be generous with the salt and pepper to bring out the steak’s natural flavor—these essentials are your best friends!
Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure when the dish is ready, use a meat thermometer. For steaks, you’re aiming for an internal temperature of about 145°F for medium-rare.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Consider adding sliced onions and carrots for additional texture and sweetness. You could also try different herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to infuse another layer of flavor into the dish. If you’re looking to make this a bit healthier, substitute the butter with olive oil or switch out the ribeye for a leaner cut like flank or sirloin.

Your Questions Answered

1. Can I use another type of steak?
Absolutely! While ribeye is beloved for its tenderness, cuts like flank or sirloin will also work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since leaner cuts may cook faster.

2. How do I know when the steak is done?
An internal thermometer is a handy tool; 145°F will give you a perfectly medium-rare steak. For a well-done steak, aim for about 160°F.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can do all the prep work a day in advance and store the steaks and potatoes separately in the fridge. Just layer them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to start cooking.

With these insights and tips, Crock Pot Steak and Potatoes is bound to become a staple in your household, offering both flavor and convenience at every dinner table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!