Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak and Loaded Bacon Ranch Potatoes
There’s something special about a hearty steak dinner that doesn’t require standing over the stove all evening. This Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak and Loaded Bacon Ranch Potatoes brings together tender beef bites coated in rich garlic butter and ranch-seasoned potatoes topped with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions.
Everything cooks in the slow cooker, making it a convenient, satisfying meal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With just a little preparation, you can have a comforting, steakhouse-inspired supper ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Tender and Flavorful: Slow-cooked beef absorbs the delicious garlic butter and savory seasonings.
– Easy One-Pot Meal: Steak and potatoes cook together, keeping cleanup simple.
– Loaded Potato Goodness: Cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning make every bite delicious.
– Great for Busy Days: A few minutes of preparation in the morning leaves the slow cooker to do the rest.
Recipe Details
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
– Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
– Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Steak and Garlic Butter
– 2 pounds sirloin steak, ribeye, or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Loaded Bacon Ranch Potatoes
– 1 1/2 to 2 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
– 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/3 cup sliced green onions or fresh chives
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker. If desired, create a divider using a double layer of aluminum foil to keep the potatoes separate from the steak and its cooking juices.
2. Season the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl. Add the olive oil and ranch seasoning, tossing until all the pieces are evenly coated. Transfer them to one side of the slow cooker.
3. Prepare the Steak: Arrange the steak cubes on the other side of the slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the Garlic Butter: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the steak, making sure the beef is well coated.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the beef reaches a safe internal temperature. Cooking time may vary depending on the cut of beef and your slow cooker.
6. Add the Toppings: During the final 15 minutes, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the potatoes. Cover and continue cooking for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese melts.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the green onions over the potatoes. Serve the garlic butter steak with a generous helping of loaded ranch potatoes and a spoonful of sour cream, if desired.
Variations & Tips
– Choose the Right Beef: Sirloin and ribeye offer a rich, meaty flavor. Chuck roast is another good option, especially for longer cooking, as its connective tissue becomes tender over time.
– Sear for Extra Flavor: For a deeper, browned flavor, quickly sear the steak cubes in a hot skillet with a little oil before transferring them to the slow cooker.
– Keep Potato Pieces Even: Cutting the potatoes into similar-sized cubes helps them cook evenly.
– Try Different Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a cheddar blend can be used instead of sharp cheddar.
– Make It Extra Loaded: Put extra bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions on the table so everyone can add their favorite toppings.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This meal is already hearty, but a simple vegetable or fresh side makes it even better.
– Green Beans: A lightly seasoned vegetable side balances the richness of the steak and potatoes.
– Garden Salad: Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers add a refreshing contrast.
– Roasted Broccoli: A little garlic and olive oil make broccoli a delicious companion.
– Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for enjoying the extra garlic butter sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool slightly, then transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours. Enjoy within 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring gently when possible. You can also reheat everything in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of broth to help keep the beef moist.
Freezing: The cooked steak can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. Potatoes may become softer after freezing, especially once topped with cheese and sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen steak?
It’s best to thaw the steak completely in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker. Starting with frozen beef can keep the food at an unsafe temperature for too long.
Can I prepare everything the night before?
Yes. You can cut the potatoes and beef and prepare the garlic butter mixture separately. Store everything covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and cook.
Can I cook the steak and potatoes without a foil divider?
Absolutely. You can place them side by side in the slow cooker. The divider simply helps keep the potatoes from mixing with the steak juices.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape nicely and have a naturally buttery texture. Russet potatoes also work well but tend to become softer.
How do I know when the steak is done?
The beef should be tender and cooked to a safe internal temperature. The exact cooking time depends on the cut and size of the pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Garlic Butter Steak and Loaded Bacon Ranch Potatoes is the kind of hearty dinner that makes everyone happy to gather around the table. Between the buttery garlic steak and cheesy bacon ranch potatoes, every serving feels like a little steakhouse treat at home.
It’s simple, filling, and full of familiar flavors that make family dinners worth looking forward to.