How To Cook Steak In Slow Cooker On High [GUIDE]

Slow cooking is often associated with long, lazy hours, but did you know you can cook a tender, flavorful steak in a slow cooker even on the high setting? The magic of the slow cooker lies in its ability to break down connective tissue and infuse every bite with deep, savory flavor, turning even tougher cuts into melt-in-your-mouth delicacies. Using the high setting speeds up the process, making it a convenient solution for those craving a hearty steak dinner without the fuss of constant stove-top attention. This guide dives deep into timing, techniques, and expert tips to ensure every slow-cooked steak emerges perfectly succulent and ready to impress.

How Long To Cook Steak In Slow Cooker On High

Cooking times in a slow cooker vary depending on the cut, thickness, and whether the steak is bone-in or boneless. On high, most steaks reach tender perfection in 2 to 3 hours. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Ribeye or Sirloin (1-inch thick, boneless): 2-2.5 hours
• Chuck Steak (1-1.5 inches thick): 2.5-3 hours
• Round or Brisket Steak (1-1.5 inches thick): 3 hours

Keep in mind that slow cooker heat is consistent but indirect. Unlike grilling or pan-searing, the steak won’t develop a crust unless you sear it beforehand. Monitoring doneness is critical because overcooking, even on high, can lead to dry, stringy meat, especially for leaner cuts.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Unlike grilling or pan-searing, slow cooking doesn’t give you the immediate visual cues of doneness. Instead, rely on these methods:

• Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); medium, 140-145°F (60-63°C); medium-well, 150-155°F (66-68°C).
• Texture Test: Insert a fork or knife; the steak should pull apart easily but still hold its shape. Chuck and round steaks become exceptionally tender and almost shreddable.
• Juice Color: Light pink juices indicate medium-rare, while clear juices suggest medium to well-done.

Ingredients Needed

To maximize flavor, slow-cooked steak benefits from a combination of aromatics, seasoning, and moisture. Here’s a recommended list:

• 2-3 steaks (1-1.5 inches thick; ribeye, sirloin, or chuck are ideal)
• 1 cup beef broth or stock
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: rosemary, thyme, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce for depth
• Optional vegetables: carrots, potatoes, and celery for a complete meal

How To Cook Steak In Slow Cooker On High

1. Optional Searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sear each side of the steak for 2-3 minutes to create a flavorful crust. While optional, this step enhances the aroma and depth of flavor.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place onions, garlic, and any other aromatics in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in beef broth or stock.
3. Add the Steak: Lay the steaks on top of the aromatics, ensuring they are partially submerged in liquid.
4. Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and optional herbs/spices over the steaks.
5. Cook on High: Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, checking occasionally after the 2-hour mark. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as it releases heat and slows cooking.
6. Resting: Remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and ensures maximum tenderness.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with the convenience of a slow cooker, mistakes can happen:

• Steak is tough: Likely undercooked or too lean. Extend cooking by 30-minute increments or consider adding a small splash of acid (like a teaspoon of vinegar or tomato paste) to help break down fibers.
• Steak is dry: Overcooking is the usual culprit. Lean cuts like sirloin need careful monitoring. Always include some liquid, and consider searing first to retain juices.
• Flavor is bland: Insufficient seasoning or aromatics can result in flat taste. Adding Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a splash of red wine can elevate flavor.

Expert Tips

• Cut Choice Matters: Chuck, round, and brisket shine in slow cookers due to their higher connective tissue content, which melts into gelatin during cooking.
• Layer Flavors: Add onions, garlic, herbs, and sauces for depth; liquids carry these flavors into the meat.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give steaks space; they cook more evenly without stacking.
• Check Liquid Levels: Ensure the steak isn’t fully submerged unless making a stew-like dish; partial submersion preserves texture.
• Sear for Flavor: Even a quick 2-minute sear on each side can dramatically enhance aroma.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can simulate the effect using:

• Dutch Oven: Follow the same layering method, cover tightly, and cook on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours.
• Pressure Cooker/Instant Pot: Use the ’Meat/Stew’ setting, reducing cook time to about 35-45 minutes depending on thickness.

Both alternatives mimic the slow, moist cooking environment necessary for tender results.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Slow cookers double as gentle reheating devices:

1. Place leftover steak in the slow cooker with a splash of broth to prevent drying.
2. Heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through.
3. Avoid high heat for reheating-it can toughen previously cooked steak.

This method keeps steak juicy and flavorful without turning it rubbery.

FAQs

Can I Cook Any Type Of Steak In A Slow Cooker On High?

While you can cook many types of steak in a slow cooker, tougher cuts like chuck, round, or brisket are ideal because they become tender with slow, moist heat. Tender cuts such as ribeye or filet may overcook and become dry.

How Long Should I Cook Steak In A Slow Cooker On High?

Cooking time depends on the thickness and cut, but generally, steak in a slow cooker on high takes 3 to 4 hours. Thicker or tougher cuts may require up to 5 hours for optimal tenderness.

Do I Need To Sear The Steak Before Slow Cooking On High?

Searing is optional but recommended. Browning the steak in a hot pan before placing it in the slow cooker enhances flavor and improves the appearance of the finished dish.

Should I Add Liquid When Cooking Steak On High In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, adding some liquid such as beef broth, wine, or a sauce helps prevent the steak from drying out and creates a flavorful cooking environment. Generally, 1/2 to 1 cup is sufficient for most recipes.

How Can I Tell If The Steak Is Done In A Slow Cooker On High?

Steak is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Unlike traditional cooking, slow cooker steak may not have a clear internal temperature marker, so texture is the best indicator.

Can I Cook Frozen Steak Directly In A Slow Cooker On High?

It is not recommended to cook frozen steak directly in a slow cooker on high, as it may lead to uneven cooking. Thaw the steak first in the refrigerator for even heat distribution.

What Vegetables Pair Well With Steak In A Slow Cooker?

Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips, as well as onions and mushrooms, are excellent choices. Add vegetables about halfway through cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

How Do I Prevent The Steak From Becoming Tough In The Slow Cooker On High?

Use a tougher cut of meat, add sufficient liquid, avoid overcooking, and consider using acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar, which help break down muscle fibers for tenderness.

Can I Use The Slow Cooker To Make A Steak Sauce Simultaneously?

Yes, the cooking liquid in the slow cooker can be thickened into a sauce. After removing the steak, reduce the liquid on the stove and add seasonings, herbs, or a small amount of cornstarch slurry for a flavorful gravy.

Is Cooking Steak On High Better Than Low In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking on high is faster, taking 3-4 hours, whereas low heat takes 6-8 hours. High heat can produce slightly firmer texture, so use low heat for maximum tenderness if time allows.