Introduction
There’s something truly magical about a slow-cooked meal. The way flavors meld together, how the meat transforms into a fork-tender delight, and the aroma that fills the kitchen—it all brings a sense of warmth and comfort. Bottom round steak is often overlooked because it’s a lean cut of beef, but with the right slow-cooking technique, it becomes fall-apart tender and absolutely delicious.
I remember the first time I tried slow-cooking bottom round steak. I had guests coming over and wanted to serve something hearty and flavorful without spending all day in the kitchen. After letting the steak braise in a rich, savory sauce for hours, I was blown away by how tender and flavorful it turned out! Now, it’s a go-to recipe in my home, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it—your slow cooker does all the work!
- Budget-Friendly: Bottom round steak is an affordable cut that transforms beautifully with slow cooking.
- Super Tender: The low-and-slow cooking method ensures the meat falls apart with just a fork.
- Rich, Deep Flavors: Slow cooking allows the seasonings and juices to fully infuse into the meat.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker (preferred) or Dutch oven
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Large Skillet or Pan (for optional searing)
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 lbs bottom round steak, cut into large chunks
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening, optional)
Ingredient Tips
- For Extra Flavor: Searing the steak before slow cooking adds depth to the flavor.
- For a Low-Carb Version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
- Fresh Herbs: If using fresh thyme, double the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
- Pat the bottom round steak dry with a paper towel.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Optional Searing
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each piece of steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Vegetables & Liquid
- Layer the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Pour the mixture over the steak and vegetables.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the steak is tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
- Stir it into the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes for a thicker sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the steak with vegetables and drizzle with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
Tips
- Best Cooking Time: Cooking on LOW yields the most tender results.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: If time allows, searing enhances the steak’s flavor.
- Thicker Sauce: Reduce the broth slightly or use a cornstarch slurry.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Variations
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Pairing: Serve with buttered dinner rolls.
- Light Option: Enjoy with a side salad.
- Ultimate Comfort Meal: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes.
FAQs
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the slow cook function or pressure cook on HIGH for 35 minutes, then do a natural release.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
Try soy sauce + a dash of apple cider vinegar.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast or brisket work well with this method.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
Concluding Thoughts
This Slow-Cooked Bottom Round Steak is the perfect dish for a comforting, no-fuss meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or cooking for the family, this recipe guarantees fall-apart tender beef packed with deep, rich flavors. Try it out and let me know in the comments how it turned out for you!
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Slow-Cooked Bottom Round Steak – Fall-Apart Tender & Packed with Flavor!
Description
Turn an affordable bottom round steak into a fall-apart tender masterpiece with this easy slow-cooker recipe. With a rich, savory broth, hearty vegetables, and fork-tender beef, this dish is perfect for comforting weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a hassle-free, delicious meal!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Season the Steak
Pat the bottom round steak dry with a paper towel.
Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
-
Optional Searing
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Sear each piece of steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
-
Transfer to the slow cooker.
-
-
Add Vegetables & Liquid
layer the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the slow cooker.
-
In a bowl, mix beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves.
-
Pour the mixture over the steak and vegetables.
-
-
Slow Cook
-
Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the steak is tender.
-
Remove bay leaves before serving.
-
-
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
-
Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
-
Stir it into the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes for a thicker sauce.
-
-
Serve & Enjoy!
-
Plate the steak with vegetables and drizzle with the sauce.
-
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
-
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4 ServingCalories:380kcalTotal Fat:16gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol:90mgSodium:600mgPotassium:650mgTotal Carbohydrate:20gDietary Fiber: 4gSugars: 5gProtein:38g
Note
- For Extra Flavor: Searing the steak before slow cooking adds depth to the flavor.
- For a Low-Carb Version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
- Fresh Herbs: If using fresh thyme, double the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.