The superficial composites on Cr-Al₂O_{3 p}/65 steel matrix was manufactured by adding the activating element Cr into the Al₂O₃ perform using squeeze casting. The effects of Cr element on the microstructure and properties of the composites were investigated. The results reveal that the hardness and three-point bending strength of the composites reach 50.7 HRC and 669.5 MPa with adding Cr powder, which are increased by 95.6% and 13.7%, respectively, compared to those of ones without Cr addition. The wetting angle is decreased from 125° to 109° compared to that of ones without Cr powder addition. The microstructure analysis demonstrates that the Fe-Cr phase is generated by added Cr powder with the steel near the Al₂O₃ particles, indicating a mutual diffusion between the components. The interfacial bonding mode remains mechanical mode. Fracture scanning analysis indicates that the fracture is dominated by brittle fracture, however, the interfacial bonding between the particles and the matrix is well integrated, thus the interfacial bonding properties are greatly improved. In conclusion, the addition of Cr powder can enhance the mechanical properties and interfacial bonding of the composites in the squeeze casting Al₂O_{3 p}/65 steel matrix composites.