Crockpot Honey Bourbon Steak Tips

Introduction

Looking for a dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and completely hands-off? These Crockpot Honey Bourbon Steak Tips are the answer. With a rich, sweet-and-savory sauce made from honey, bourbon, garlic, and soy, the steak tips become incredibly tender and juicy as they simmer all day in the slow cooker.

Crockpot meals remain a top search trend for busy families, especially during fall and winter months. Combining steak tips (a comfort food favorite) with a sticky, flavorful glaze makes this recipe a guaranteed winner for weeknight dinners, game days, or even meal prep.

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs steak tips (sirloin tips or stew meat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• ½ cup bourbon whiskey
• ⅓ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening sauce)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6–8 hours hands-off

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Steak Tips

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear steak tips for 1–2 minutes per side until browned (do not cook through).
• Transfer to slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, soy sauce, beef broth, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and black pepper.
• Pour sauce over steak tips in the crockpot.

Step 3: Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until steak is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

• In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch and cold water. Stir into sauce and allow to thicken.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

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Tips for Success

• Sear before slow cooking for deeper flavor.
• Use quality bourbon—it enhances the sauce (don’t worry, alcohol cooks out).
• Cut steak evenly so all pieces cook tender at the same rate.
• For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

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Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 12g

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Variations

• Honey Garlic Steak Tips: Skip bourbon and double the garlic.
• Spicy Bourbon Steak Tips: Add sriracha or chili paste to sauce.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace honey with sugar-free maple syrup or keto honey substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the sauce.
• Pair with roasted veggies, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad.
• Great for meal prep—store portions with rice or quinoa.

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Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
• Reheat: Warm gently on stove with a splash of broth to loosen sauce.

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Conclusion

These Crockpot Honey Bourbon Steak Tips are melt-in-your-mouth tender, sweet, savory, and absolutely irresistible. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing all the work, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver and a comfort food classic in the making.

👉 Try this recipe soon, and let me know in the comments if it became a family favorite. Don’t forget to subscribe for more slow cooker comfort food recipes!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this without bourbon?
Yes—use apple juice or beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Q2: Do I have to sear the steak tips first?
It’s optional, but searing locks in flavor and improves texture.

Q3: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of crockpot?
Yes—simmer in a Dutch oven for 1.5–2 hours on low heat.

Q4: Does the alcohol cook off?
Yes—the slow cooking process leaves flavor without alcohol content.

Q5: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or drumsticks also work well.