Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Tender beef bites, golden potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce make this slow cooker dish a perfect choice for busy weeknights or indulgent family dinners. With minimal prep and the convenience of slow cooking, this hearty recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who loves comforting meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are the standout reasons to add this dish to your rotation:

• Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, herbs, and slow-cooked beef creates a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
• Convenience: With a slow cooker, the prep is quick, and the cooking happens hands-free, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Versatility: Great as a complete meal or paired with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is both kid-friendly and fancy enough for casual entertaining.
• Minimal Clean-Up: With just one pot to clean, this recipe saves time on kitchen duties.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Thyme leaves
• Rosemary sprigs
• Beef broth
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Paprika

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   • Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef and cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
   • Wash and halve the baby potatoes.
2. Season the Beef
   • Place the beef bites in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Sear the Beef (Optional)
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef bites on all sides until browned. While this step is optional, it adds a deeper flavor to the dish.
4. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
   • Add the potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the seared beef.
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Stir for about 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
6. Pour the Sauce
   • Pour the garlic butter mixture over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker.
7. Add the Broth
   • Pour beef broth over the ingredients, ensuring there’s enough liquid to partially submerge the beef and potatoes.
8. Cook
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the potatoes should be fork-soft.
9. Garnish and Serve
   • Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variations

• Protein Substitutes: Swap the beef for chicken thighs or pork shoulder for a different take on the recipe.
• Potato Options: Yukon gold or red potatoes work beautifully, but sweet potatoes can be used for a sweeter twist.
• Add Vegetables: Include carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for a more robust meal.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Herb Adjustments: Experiment with dill, oregano, or sage for unique flavor profiles.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the dish seems dry.

FAQs

How can I thicken the sauce?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Freshly minced garlic is recommended for optimal flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best type of beef for this recipe?

Beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which breaks down during slow cooking for a tender texture.

Can I skip searing the beef?

Yes, but searing enhances the flavor by caramelizing the surface of the meat.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A side salad, steamed vegetables, or a loaf of crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the quantity to about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Will this recipe work in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function to sear the beef, then cook on high pressure for 35 minutes with a natural release.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, russet potatoes work well but may need to be peeled and cut into smaller chunks.

How do I avoid overcooking the beef?

Stick to the recommended cook times and use the low setting if you’re unsure. Overcooked beef can become dry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the beef broth you use is certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. The tender beef, buttery potatoes, and rich garlic sauce are a winning combination perfect for any occasion. Try it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal—you won’t be disappointed!

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