These slow cooker pineapple teriyaki steak bites are tender, juicy and coated in a sweet-savory glossy sauce that's packed with flavor.
Slow-cooked until melt-in-your-mouth tender, the steak simmers in a rich teriyaki pineapple sauce made with garlic, soy and brown sugar. The pineapple adds a bright, tangy sweetness that balances the deep umami flavors perfectly, making this an easy, comforting meal best served over fluffy rice.
For other tender and juicy slow cooker recipes, check out Mississippi Pork Roast, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole and my Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: Tender, lean beef cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Oil: Used for searing and locking in flavor.
- Pineapple chunks: Add sweetness and tropical brightness.
- Pineapple juice: Forms the fruity base of the sauce.
- Teriyaki sauce: Adds rich umami and depth.
- Soy sauce: Boosts savory flavor and saltiness.
- Brown sugar: Balances the salty and tangy notes with sweetness.
- Garlic: Adds bold aromatic depth.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce into a glossy glaze.
- Scallions (optional): Fresh, sharp garnish to finish the dish.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Season and sear: Season steak with salt and pepper, then quickly sear in a hot pan until lightly browned. Add to slow cooker: Transfer steak and pineapple chunks into the slow cooker. Make sauce: Whisk pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic and cornstarch.
- Step 2: Combine: Pour sauce over the steak and mix gently. Cook: Slow cook on low for 4-5 hours until tender and flavorful. Finish: Stir well before serving and garnish with scallions if desired.
Substitutions
- Swap sirloin steak for chicken thighs or beef chuck.
- Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a brighter flavor.
Variations
- Spicy version: Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Veggie-loaded: Add bell peppers, snap peas or carrots in the last hour.
- Asian bowl style: Serve over rice with sesame seeds, cucumber and avocado.
See this spicy version of this recipe on my website! (placeholder for in-content link)
Equipment
You'll need a slow cooker for the main cooking process and a skillet for quickly searing the steak before slow cooking. A mixing bowl and whisk are also helpful for combining the sauce ingredients.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or pineapple juice if the sauce thickens too much.
Top tip
Always sear the steak before slow cooking; it locks in flavor and gives the dish a deeper, richer taste.
FAQ
Yes, but searing adds extra depth of flavor and helps keep the meat juicy.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Steak Bites
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds sirloin steak cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup pineapple chunks drained
- ¾ cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Scallions for garnish optional
Instructions
- Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and quickly sear the steak pieces until lightly browned.
- Transfer steak to the slow cooker.
- Add pineapple chunks.
- In a bowl whisk pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and cornstarch.
- Pour sauce over the steak.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours until steak is tender.
- Stir the sauce before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
All nutritional information provided is an estimate. For specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend consulting a nutrition calculator or a qualified expert.
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