When the cold weather hits, nothing warms you up like a hearty, comforting soup. Slow cooker steak soup is not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, delivering a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

This recipe combines tender pieces of sirloin tip steak, rich beef broth, and savory onion soup mix. The slow cooker does all the work, simmering the ingredients to perfection while you go about your day. It’s a hands-off meal that results in a deeply flavorful dish.

What Makes This Soup Special

The combination of tender, slow-cooked steak, onion soup mix, and pasta makes this recipe a winner. Sirloin tip steak is perfect for slow cooking, while the pasta adds a satisfying texture. Together, they create a soup that’s both filling and flavorful.

Ingredients Breakdown

Sirloin Tip Steak:

• Why It’s Ideal for Slow Cooking:
  Sirloin tip steak is a lean but flavorful cut of beef, making it perfect for slow cooking. Over time, the steak becomes tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors from the broth and seasonings.
• Substitute Options:
  Chuck roast or stew meat can be used as substitutes if sirloin tip steak is unavailable. These cuts have more marbling, which adds richness but will still yield a tender result after long, slow cooking.

Flour, Salt, and Pepper:

• Role of Flour in Thickening the Soup:
  Coating the steak in flour before adding it to the slow cooker helps thicken the soup as it cooks. This gives the broth a richer, silkier texture without needing additional thickening agents.
• Importance of Early Seasoning:
  Seasoning the steak with salt and pepper before cooking enhances the beef’s flavor. This step ensures that the seasoning penetrates the meat during the long cooking process.

Dry Onion Soup Mix:

• Savory Onion Flavor:
  Onion soup mix is a quick and easy way to add depth of flavor to the broth. Its blend of dried onions and seasonings enhances the overall savory profile of the soup.
• Homemade vs. Store-Bought:
  Store-bought mixes are convenient, but you can make your own with dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and herbs. Homemade mixes offer more control over the salt content.

Beef Broth:

• The Backbone of the Soup’s Flavor:
  A rich, high-quality beef broth forms the base of the soup. Opt for low-sodium broth to avoid overpowering the flavors, especially when combined with the onion soup mix.
• Homemade Broth:
  If you have time, homemade beef broth can elevate the flavor of the soup even further, adding a fresh, deep taste.

Tomato Paste & Worcestershire Sauce:

• Depth and Umami:
  Tomato paste adds a hint of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the broth. Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami, boosting the savory flavors of the steak and broth.

Ditalini Pasta:

• Texture and Bite:
  Ditalini pasta is small, tubular, and holds up well in soups without becoming too mushy. It adds heartiness and texture to the soup, making it more filling.
• Alternative Pasta or Grain Options:
  Other small pasta like orzo or grains like barley can be substituted to suit your preference or dietary needs. Barley adds a chewy texture, while orzo offers a lighter alternative.

Equipment: Why a Slow Cooker?

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker:

• Hands-Off Cooking:
  A slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. It’s an easy, low-effort way to create a meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Tenderizing Meat:
  Slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues in beef, turning tougher cuts like sirloin tip steak into melt-in-your-mouth pieces. The long, gentle heat infuses the meat with the flavors of the broth and seasonings.

Choosing the Right Slow Cooker Size:

• Portions Matter:
  Slow cookers come in various sizes, from small (2-3 quarts) to large (6-8 quarts). For this recipe, a 4-6 quart slow cooker works well for family-sized portions. If cooking for just one or two, a smaller size may be more practical.

Tips for Maintaining a Slow Cooker:

• Ensuring Even Cooking:
  Avoid overfilling the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. Leave space at the top for the steam to circulate.
• Caring for Your Equipment:
  Regular cleaning and proper storage will extend the life of your slow cooker. Some models also have removable stoneware that can go in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Steak Soup

1. Prepping the Steak:

• Cubing the Steak:
  Cut the sirloin tip steak into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. This size allows the beef to cook through thoroughly while remaining tender and juicy.
• Coating with Flour, Salt, and Pepper:
  In a large bowl, toss the steak cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. This step helps the meat brown slightly as it cooks and thickens the soup naturally. Make sure each piece of steak is evenly coated for the best results.

2. Layering the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

• Why Layering Matters:
  For best results, place the meat at the bottom of the slow cooker, closest to the heat source. Add the dry onion soup mix, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth on top. This order ensures the meat is well-flavored while the liquids help distribute the seasoning.
• Stirring vs. Not Stirring:
  Stirring lightly helps mix the ingredients but avoid over-stirring. Let the slow cooker do the work by distributing the flavors as they cook.

3. Cooking Time and Temperature:

• Low vs. High Heat:
  Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours for the most tender steak. Alternatively, cook on high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time, though the steak might not be as tender as with the low setting.
• Monitoring for Doneness:
  The steak should be fork-tender when ready. You can check after the minimum cooking time and let it go longer if needed.

4. Adding the Cooked Pasta:

• When and Why to Add Pasta Last:
  Pasta should always be added near the end to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy. Stir in the cooked ditalini pasta 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing it to heat through and absorb some of the broth.
• How Long to Let the Soup Sit After Adding Pasta:
  After adding the pasta, let the soup sit for a few minutes to ensure the pasta heats through without absorbing too much liquid.

5. Final Touches:

• Garnishes for Elevation:
  Just before serving, consider topping the soup with freshly grated parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the broth.

Nutritional Value and Serving Suggestions

Nutritional Overview:

• Calories and Macros:
  This steak soup is relatively low in calories but rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling and nourishing meal. A typical serving provides about 300-400 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. The combination of beef and pasta provides a balanced ratio of protein and carbohydrates, while the broth base keeps the fat content moderate.
• Health Benefits:
  Using lean sirloin tip steak makes this soup lower in fat, while the broth-based liquid is hydrating and nutrient-rich. Ditalini pasta adds fiber and complex carbohydrates to keep you full longer.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect Pairings:
  Serve the steak soup with crusty bread, such as a French baguette or sourdough, to soak up the broth. Alternatively, a side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Adjusting for Different Portions:
  This soup can be made in large batches for meal prep. It stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Consider portioning it into individual containers for easy reheating during the week.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Steak Soup

Browning the Meat First:

• Pros and Cons:
  Browning the steak before adding it to the slow cooker is optional, but it enhances the overall flavor of the soup. Searing the beef creates a caramelized crust, intensifying the savory richness. The downside is that it adds an extra step and some cleanup, but the flavor boost can be worth it.
• Flavor and Texture:
  Browning also helps lock in juices, ensuring the steak remains moist and tender during slow cooking. However, skipping this step won’t drastically reduce the quality, and the slow cooker will still break down the meat to a tender consistency.

Thickening the Soup Further:

• Using Flour, Cornstarch, or Reducing Broth:
  For a thicker soup, you can add more flour when coating the steak or mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water) and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, reduce the amount of beef broth to create a thicker, stew-like consistency.
• Adjusting Cooking Time:
  If you prefer a thicker, stew-like texture, cook the soup uncovered for the last 30-60 minutes to let some of the liquid evaporate.

Adjusting the Flavors:

• Spices and Herbs:
  For added complexity, include extra herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, or rosemary. These herbs pair well with beef and create a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
• Soy Sauce as a Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce:
  For a different twist, substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce. It adds a salty, umami depth to the soup while offering a slightly different flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Slow Cooker Soups

Overcooking the Meat:

• Signs and Prevention:
  Overcooked beef becomes dry and tough. To avoid this, ensure you follow the recommended cooking times and check for doneness towards the end of the cooking period. Slow-cooked steak should be tender and juicy, easily pulled apart with a fork. If the meat is overcooked, it might become stringy or dry.

Not Thickening Properly:

• Avoiding Watery Soup:
  If you don’t coat the steak with enough flour, or if you add too much liquid, the soup may become watery. Ensure you measure the flour accurately or use a thickening agent like cornstarch later in the cooking process to achieve the desired consistency.

Timing the Pasta:

• Avoiding Soggy Pasta:
  Adding the pasta too early in the cooking process can cause it to absorb too much broth and become overly soft or mushy. To maintain the right texture, always add pre-cooked pasta 15-20 minutes before serving, just enough to heat through without turning to mush.

Variations of Slow Cooker Steak Soup 

Vegetable Steak Soup:

• Adding Heartier Ingredients:
  To make the soup more substantial, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes. These ingredients add bulk and nutrition. Carrots and potatoes should be added at the beginning of cooking, while more delicate vegetables like peas or green beans can be added during the last hour.
• Adjusting Cooking Times:
  Harder vegetables like carrots or potatoes require the full cooking time, while softer vegetables should be added towards the end to avoid overcooking.

Creamy Steak Soup:

• Making a Creamier Version:
  For a cream-based variation, stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will transform the soup into a rich, velvety dish.

Low-Carb/Keto Option:

• Pasta Substitutes:
  To make the soup low-carb or keto-friendly, omit the pasta and replace it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These alternatives add texture without the carbs, keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

Spicy Steak Soup:

• Adding Heat:
  For a spicy kick, you can add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the soup. The heat level can be adjusted based on personal preference. Add these spicy elements during the cooking process or as a garnish.

Gluten-Free Option:

• Pasta and Flour Alternatives:
  To make the soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or cornstarch. These substitutes work well for thickening the soup without compromising the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Can I use a different cut of steak?

• Substitute Options:
  Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast, stew meat, or round steak. Chuck roast will result in a richer flavor due to its higher fat content, while round steak will be leaner but still tender after slow cooking. These substitutions may slightly alter the texture, but the soup will remain delicious.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

• Storage Tips:
  Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Instructions:
  Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions. Be careful not to overheat the beef, as this can cause it to dry out.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

• Stovetop Instructions:
  Yes, you can prepare the soup on the stovetop. Brown the steak in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender. Keep the pot partially covered and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

What can I substitute for ditalini pasta?

• Other Pasta or Grain Options:
  If ditalini isn’t available, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like orzo, elbow macaroni, or farro. Grains like barley or quinoa also make excellent, heartier alternatives.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

• Vegetarian Substitutes:
  To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the steak with mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini) for a meaty texture, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What if I don’t have onion soup mix?

• Homemade Onion Soup Mix:
  You can easily make your own onion soup mix by combining dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. This gives you control over the salt content and ingredients.

Conclusion 

Summary of the Soup’s Benefits:

Slow cooker steak soup is the ultimate comfort food. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The rich combination of tender steak, flavorful broth, and hearty pasta ensures it’s a filling, nourishing meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Call to Action:

Give this slow cooker steak soup a try, and feel free to customize it to your preferences. Whether you prefer a creamy version, a low-carb twist, or added vegetables, this recipe can be adapted to suit any palate or dietary need. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Print