Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

A Comforting and Flavorful Slow Cooker Meal

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is the perfect dish for a hearty, home-cooked meal that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the beef to become incredibly tender while soaking up the rich, garlicky butter sauce. Paired with perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
• Rich and Savory Flavor: Garlic butter enhances the beef’s natural taste.
• Hearty and Filling: A full meal in one pot with protein and carbs.
• Minimal Cleanup: Fewer dishes mean less work after dinner.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for leftovers and easy to store.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the beef into bite-sized chunks and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Halve the baby potatoes and set them aside.
3. Mince the garlic and melt the butter.

Step 2: Brown the Beef (Optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef bites for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned (this step adds extra flavor but can be skipped).

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

1. Place the halved potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the seared beef bites on top.
3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the beef and potatoes.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are fully cooked.
2. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water, then stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Add carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Infusion: Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh rosemary or thyme for a different flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours 15 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use stew meat, sirloin, or even short ribs for this recipe.

Do I have to brown the beef first?

No, but searing the beef enhances the flavor and creates a richer dish.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cooking on high for 4-5 hours will yield similar results to low for 7-8 hours.

Can I use different potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or russet potatoes can be used, but cut them into smaller pieces.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure the Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free, and skip the cornstarch or use a gluten-free thickener.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the garlic amount to your taste preference.

What sides go well with this dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls pair nicely.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add great flavor—use double the amount of fresh compared to dried.

Is it possible to make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 35 minutes with a natural release.

How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?

Use waxy potatoes like baby potatoes or Yukon Gold, which hold their shape better than russet potatoes.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers big on flavor and comfort. With tender beef, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

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