Dr Pepper Steak Bites

These Crockpot Dr. Pepper Steak Bites bring together tender, juicy pieces of steak with a uniquely flavorful sauce made from Dr. Pepper, BBQ sauce, honey, and garlic. Slow cooking lets the sauce become rich and sticky while the steak melts in your mouth. This recipe delivers comfort food with minimal effort, perfect for busy nights or weekend dinners when you want a fuss-free meal that tastes indulgent.

I first made this recipe when I was craving something cozy and different, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s impressive enough for guests and easy enough for weeknights, which is a win in my book. The sweet and savory sauce with that hint of Dr. Pepper is surprisingly addictive.

Ingredients

• Steak: Sirloin, London broil, chuck roast, or stew beef work well, choose your favorite cut for either leaner bites or melt in your mouth tenderness
• Dr. Pepper: The secret ingredient that adds a sweet caramel flavor and depth
• Honey: Balances the sauce with natural sweetness
• Brown sugar: Enhances the sauce’s richness and helps develop a caramelized finish
• BBQ sauce: Adds smokiness and tang, pick your favorite style for personalized flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings in umami and complexity
• Garlic: Fresh cloves give a hearty aromatic punch
• Black pepper: Freshly ground for sharpness and bite
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish when mixed with water
• Water: For making the cornstarch slurry

Instructions

Sear the steak bites:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the steak bites for just a few seconds on each side. This step is crucial because it locks in juices and adds a nice golden crust that builds flavor. Aim for a light brown color without fully cooking the meat through.

Place steak in the crockpot:

Transfer your seared steak bites into the crockpot, spreading them out evenly for consistent cooking.

Make the sauce mixture:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dr. Pepper, honey, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure everything is well combined to create that bold, sweet and savory flavor base.

Pour the sauce over the steak:

Carefully pour your sauce mixture over the steak bites in the crockpot. Make sure the meat is fully coated to absorb all the flavors during cooking.

Slow cook until tender:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4 hours. The steak bites should become fork tender and infused with the sauce. This slow cooking breaks down tougher cuts if you chose chuck roast or stew beef, making them silky soft.

Thicken the sauce if needed:

If after cooking the sauce seems too thin, mix equal parts cold water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot and cook on high for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.

Serve it up:

Dish out the steak bites with plenty of sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or on toasted slider buns. Enjoy all that rich flavor and tender meat in every bite.

Dr. Pepper is my favorite part of this dish. It adds an unexpected twist that makes the sauce unforgettable. A few years ago, I made this for a friend’s game night, and everyone kept asking what gave it that deliciously unique flavor. It’s a family staple now, especially when the craving hits for something cozy and slightly sweet.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness and avoid drying out the steak bites. You can also freeze the cooked steak bites for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Dr. Pepper, a mix of cola and apple juice can mimic the flavor. Maple syrup can replace honey for a deeper sweetness. If you want to avoid brown sugar, try coconut sugar but expect a slightly different caramel note. Use any BBQ sauce style you prefer to customize the smokiness or spiciness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

These steak bites shine over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up every bit of the sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans. Sliders made with toasted buns and extra sauce turn this recipe into a perfect casual party snack.

Enjoy these sticky sweet and savory steak bites with your favorite sides. They are great for simple weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What cut of steak is best for this dish?

Sirloin offers leaner, tender bites, while chuck roast or stew beef becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking.

→ How do you thicken the sauce after cooking?

Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the sauce and cook until it thickens to a glossy finish.

→ Can I add spice to the sauce?

Yes, adding red pepper flakes gives a nice kick that balances the sweetness without overpowering the flavors.

→ Should I sear the steak bites before slow cooking?

Absolutely, searing locks in flavor and gives the steak a nice golden color that enhances the final dish.

→ What are some good serving suggestions?

Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or on toasted buns. Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple side salad.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.