If you’ve been on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dish that effortlessly combines tender beef and flavorful potatoes, look no further. The Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a rich, mouthwatering meal. Imagine garlic-infused buttery bites of beef mingling with perfectly cooked potatoes, all slow-cooked to tender perfection—the kind of home-cooked magic that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation for this dish’s incredible taste and satisfying texture. Each component plays a key role—beef offers hearty flavor, baby potatoes add creamy comfort, and garlic butter brings that indulgent, savory touch that ties it all together.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose well-marbled beef for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness after slow cooking.
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved: These cook evenly and soak up all the delicious garlic butter flavors perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: For rich, silky coating on the beef and potatoes, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing the beef to lock in juices and develop a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory backbone of the recipe without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herby note that balances the richness of butter and beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural juices.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and depth, keeping the beef tender and the potatoes perfectly cooked.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef bites for 2 to 3 minutes until all sides are beautifully browned. This step is crucial because it locks in the beef’s juices and gives the finished dish that irresistible caramelized flavor you crave.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once beef is seared, transfer it to your slow cooker along with the halved baby potatoes, beef broth, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently to mix the spices evenly with the meat and potatoes, setting the stage for layers of flavor to develop during slow cooking.
Step 3: Drizzle with Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix melted butter and freshly minced garlic. Pour this luscious garlic butter all over the beef and potatoes inside the slow cooker. This rich infusion will seep into every bite, making the dish wonderfully savory and aromatic.
Step 4: Set and Cook
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours if you have the time — this is when the beef really becomes decadently tender, and the potatoes soak up all the garlicky goodness. If you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours instead. Either way, you’ll end up with a meal that tastes like a labor of love, even if you barely lift a finger.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
When cooking is complete, gently stir the beef bites and potatoes to coat everything in that flavorful sauce. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of green vibrancy and a subtle herbaceous note that perfectly complements the rich butter and garlic.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a natural choice for garnishing this recipe, adding a pop of color and refreshing brightness that balances the hearty, garlicky richness. Feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some thinly sliced green onions for an extra zing if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This slow cooker garlic butter beef bites & potatoes recipe is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables can bring a lovely freshness to the plate. Soft dinner rolls or crusty bread are also perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Present this dish family-style right from the slow cooker for a welcoming, rustic vibe. Or, plate individual servings by layering beef and potatoes on a warm dish, then drizzle with extra garlic butter and sprinkle with parsley. For gatherings, consider serving alongside a colorful medley of roasted veggies or a bright seasonal slaw to keep everyone intrigued.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The beef bites and potatoes will keep their flavor beautifully for up to 3 days, making this dish a fantastic choice for convenient next-day meals that taste just as good after reheating.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe ready for future cravings, freezing is a great option. Pack the cooled beef and potatoes along with their sauce into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat so the beef stays tender and the potatoes don’t dry out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Adding a splash of beef broth or a small pat of butter while reheating can revive the dish’s luscious texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast or stew meat is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful, you can also use brisket or short ribs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the cut.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe to an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to sear the beef, then cooking on high pressure for about 35 to 45 minutes. Don’t forget to use the natural pressure release for best results.
Can I substitute baby potatoes with another type?
You can substitute with fingerling potatoes or quartered Yukon gold potatoes. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking, and note that different potatoes may vary slightly in cooking time and texture.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try sprinkling in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the other spices. Alternatively, serve with a spicy dipping sauce or drizzle with hot sauce before serving to suit your heat preference.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is centered around beef, but you can create a vegetarian version by swapping the beef for hearty mushrooms or seitan and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The garlic butter sauce and spices will still deliver plenty of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe truly embodies the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Its simple ingredients come together in such an effortless way, turning a busy day into a memorable meal with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite slow cooker recipe that’s both deeply satisfying and full of flavor.
Print
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe offers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. Tender beef stew meat is seared to lock in juices, then slow-cooked with baby potatoes, garlic-infused melted butter, and aromatic herbs until everything is meltingly tender. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish, making it a comforting and satisfying dinner option with minimal hands-on effort.
Ingredients
Beef and Potatoes
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef bites and sear them for 2-3 minutes, turning to brown all sides. This step locks in the beef’s flavors and creates a rich base for the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker. Add the halved baby potatoes, beef broth, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Add Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic. Drizzle this aromatic garlic butter evenly over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker, enhancing the richness and flavor.
- Cook on Low or High: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooking is complete, gently stir the beef and potatoes to combine flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a comforting family meal.
Notes
- Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances flavor by developing a caramelized crust.
- If you prefer, red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes can be used instead of baby potatoes.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste since slow cooking can concentrate flavors.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce excess liquid.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
