Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks 🍖🌶️
Transform dinner into a decadent affair with these effortlessly gourmet Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks. Juicy ribeye steaks, slow-cooked with peppery ranch and au jus flavors, and tangy pepperoncini for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs ribeye steaks
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 packet au jus seasoning
- 10 pepperoncini peppers
- Optional: ¼ cup pepperoncini juice
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced
Instructions:
- Optional Searing (For Extra Flavor):
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribeye steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor but is optional.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the ribeye steaks in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season the Steaks:
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus seasoning evenly over the steaks.
- Add Pepperoncini:
- Place the pepperoncini peppers on top of the steaks. If you like a bit more tang, add ¼ cup of pepperoncini juice to the slow cooker.
- Top with Butter:
- Slice the butter and place the slices on top of the steaks and peppers.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 5-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the steaks are tender and infused with the seasonings.
- Serve:
- Serve the slow-cooked ribeye steaks over mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Popular Questions and Their Answers:
- Can I use a different cut of steak?
- Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or sirloin. However, ribeye provides the best flavor and tenderness for this recipe.
- Do I need to sear the steaks?
- Searing is optional but recommended for added flavor.
- Can I make this recipe in the oven?
- Yes, cook in a covered Dutch oven at 275°F (135°C) for 3-4 hours until tender.
- What can I use instead of pepperoncini?
- Banana peppers or mild pickled jalapeños can be used as substitutes.
- Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
- Yes, you can add potatoes, carrots, or onions. Place them under the steaks to ensure even cooking.
- What side dishes go well with this?
- Mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad complement this dish well.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the cooked steaks?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked steaks for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
- Can I use homemade seasoning instead of packets?
- Yes, you can use homemade ranch and au jus seasoning mixes if preferred.
- Is there a low-sodium option?
- Use low-sodium or homemade versions of the ranch and au jus seasonings.
- What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
- You can use a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot on the stovetop, simmering on low heat.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used if necessary.
- Will the steak be tender?
- Yes, cooking slowly on low heat ensures the steak becomes tender and flavorful.
- What type of beef broth can I use?
- Any type of beef broth can be used, but low-sodium is preferable to control salt levels.
- Can I add wine to the recipe?
- Yes, a splash of red wine can be added for extra depth of flavor.
- How spicy are the pepperoncini?
- Pepperoncini add a mild tangy flavor, not typically very spicy.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, ensure your slow cooker is large enough and adjust cooking time if necessary.
- Can I cook this on high the entire time?
- Cooking on high will reduce the time but may affect tenderness. Low and slow is preferred.
- What kind of rice pairs best?
- Jasmine or basmati rice pairs well with this dish due to their light, fluffy texture.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and comforting Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks!
To achieve the perfect French Onion Smothered Chicken with Mushrooms, consider these secrets:
- Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts and fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
- Proper Seasoning: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance their flavor.
- Caramelized Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions until they are golden brown and sweet. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Enhance with Garlic: Add minced garlic along with the onions for extra flavor complexity.
- Mushroom Selection: Choose flavorful mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for a richer taste.
- Thyme Infusion: Incorporate dried thyme into the onion and mushroom mixture for an earthy and aromatic touch.
- Deglaze the Pan: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth after cooking the onions and mushrooms to scrape up any flavorful browned bits.
- Butter for Richness: Use butter to sauté the onions and mushrooms for a rich and indulgent flavor.
- Creamy Sauce: Create a creamy sauce by adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the onion and mushroom mixture for added richness and creaminess.
- Melted Cheese: Top the chicken breasts with shredded Gruyere cheese for its nutty flavor and excellent melting properties.
- Slow Cooking: Allow the chicken breasts to simmer in the onion and mushroom sauce over low heat to ensure they are tender and infused with flavor.
- Cover When Cooking: Cover the skillet with a lid or foil while simmering to trap moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Baste the Chicken: Occasionally spoon the onion and mushroom sauce over the chicken breasts while they cook to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or thyme just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Hot: Serve the French Onion Smothered Chicken with Mushrooms immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is melted and gooey.
By following these secrets, you’ll create a French Onion Smothered Chicken with Mushrooms that’s bursting with rich flavors and irresistible aroma, sure to impress your family and friends!