If you have been on the hunt for a dish that transforms a simple cut of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece, look no further than the Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe. This recipe practically does the work for you while delivering rich, buttery flavors complemented by a tangy kick from pepperoncini peppers. The combination of ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix creates an irresistible sauce that seeps into the ribeye steaks, resulting in tender, juicy meat infused with vibrant, comforting notes. It’s truly a fuss-free yet elegant dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list because it is delightfully straightforward. Each item is carefully chosen to enhance the steak’s natural beefy flavors or add that zing of brightness and creamy depth essential for the perfect Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe.
- 2–2.5 pounds boneless ribeye steaks: These are the star of the show, known for their rich marbling and tender texture.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Adds herby, garlicky, and savory notes that make every bite pop with flavor.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Boosts the beefy richness and forms the base of the luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Melted into the sauce, the butter gives the dish a luxurious mouthfeel.
- 6–8 pepperoncini peppers: Provide the perfect tangy contrast that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons pepperoncini juice: Infuses the entire dish with subtle acidity and complexity.
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional): Used sparingly to season the steaks if desired.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Start by patting your ribeye steaks dry. Drying the meat helps in getting good seasoning adhesion and reduces excess moisture that could dilute flavor. Lightly season the steaks with salt and black pepper if you’d like. This step is optional because the seasoning packets already add plenty of flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the steaks in the slow cooker in a single layer, making sure they fit snugly but without crowding. Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix over the steaks. This layering ensures every inch will absorb the delicious flavors that define this recipe.
Step 3: Add Butter and Pepperoncini
Cut the unsalted butter into chunks and scatter it over the seasoning. Then, add the pepperoncini peppers on top, followed by pouring the pepperoncini juice evenly over everything. This assemblage is crucial because as the butter melts and the peppers cook down slowly, they create the signature sauce that’s tangy, buttery, and unforgettable.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook the steaks on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low and slow cooking method makes the steaks unbelievably tender because the connective tissue gently breaks down without drying the meat. You’ll know it’s ready when the steaks are fork-tender and the sauce is fragrant.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe
Garnishes
Although the dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a bright note and contrast in color. You can also add a few sliced fresh pepperoncini on top to emphasize those signature tangy flavors and give a slight crunch.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are an absolute must with this recipe – they soak up the buttery, pepperoncini-laden sauce beautifully. Rice is another fantastic option if you want something lighter or gluten-free, while toasted sandwich rolls make the perfect base for turning those juicy ribeyes into epic sandwiches.
Creative Ways to Present
For an unexpected twist, serve the steaks over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles for an elegant spin. You could also slice the finished ribeyes thin and pile them onto soft buns with melted cheese for a decadent take on a slow cooker steak sandwich loaded with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The rich sauce preserves the meat’s juiciness, so reheated slices remain tender and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the leftovers, wrap the steaks tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container along with some of the sauce. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the steaks gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, spooning sauce over the top to maintain moisture. Avoid high heat to keep the meat tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for the Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye is prized for its marbling and tenderness, sirloin or chuck steaks are excellent substitutes that also benefit from the slow cooking and flavor-packed sauce.
Should I add extra seasoning to the steaks before cooking?
The ranch seasoning and au jus mix provide a powerful flavor base, so additional salt and pepper are optional. If you like a saltier or spicier touch, feel free to season lightly before cooking.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, remove the cooked steaks once done, then whisk in a cornstarch slurry made from 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water into the sauce. Let it simmer on high for 10 to 15 minutes in the slow cooker until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt the Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe for an Instant Pot by using the pressure cook function for about 45 minutes. Just be sure to use natural pressure release to maintain tenderness.
Are pepperoncini peppers spicy?
Pepperoncini peppers have a mild heat and are more tangy and slightly sweet rather than spicy. They add a wonderful bright flavor that balances the rich butter and beef.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, a cozy, flavorful Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe that practically makes itself but rewards you with restaurant-quality tenderness and a sauce bursting with savory and tangy goodness. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want an effortless, satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is a true keeper. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with slow cooker steak all over again!
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Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Mississippi Ribeye Steaks offer a tender, flavorful twist on classic ribeye with a rich blend of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, and tangy pepperoncini peppers, slow-cooked to juicy perfection. Perfect for an easy main course that melts in your mouth and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasonings
- 2–2.5 pounds boneless ribeye steaks (about 3–4 medium steaks)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into chunks
- 6–8 pepperoncini peppers
- 2 tablespoons pepperoncini juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adhesion. Lightly season them with salt and black pepper if desired, enhancing the natural beef flavors.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned steaks evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle both the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix over the steaks for a balanced flavor infusion.
- Add Butter and Peppers: Distribute chunks of unsalted butter on top of the steaks, then layer the pepperoncini peppers over everything. Pour the pepperoncini juice over all ingredients for tangy heat and moisture.
- Slow Cook the Steaks: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The goal is to achieve fork-tender steaks that absorb the rich flavors of the seasoning and peppers.
- Optional Gravy Thickening: If you prefer a thicker gravy, carefully remove the steaks after cooking. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the slow cooker juices. Simmer on high for 10–15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Serve: Plate the steaks and spoon the flavorful juices over them. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or toasted sandwich rolls for an inviting meal.
Notes
- Ribeye is naturally rich and tender, but this recipe also works well with sirloin or chuck steaks for variation.
- For a thicker gravy, make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) and simmer with the juices on high for 10–15 minutes after removing steaks.
- Using gluten-free seasoning packets will make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
