Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a slow-cooked meal, especially when it involves tender beef bites infused with garlic butter and paired with soft, flavorful potatoes. This recipe combines ease and elegance, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when hosting family and friends. The rich, buttery sauce adds a layer of indulgence that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary.
Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of garlic and savory beef simmering away in your slow cooker. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting while you go about your day.
What’s even better? This meal is a complete package, with juicy beef bites and hearty potatoes all cooked together in one pot. No extra sides needed—though we’ll share some perfect pairings below if you’re in the mood to add even more flair.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your rotation of go-to slow-cooker recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Effortless: Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich, buttery flavors with tender beef and creamy potatoes.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, more time to relax.
Perfect Pairings
This dish shines on its own but can be paired with a few simple sides for added variety:
- A crisp, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Warm, crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Steamed green beans, asparagus, or roasted broccoli for a veggie boost.
- A glass of red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, for an elegant touch.
Tips for Success
- Use Marbled Beef: Chuck roast or well-marbled stew meat ensures tender, juicy bites.
- Cut Evenly: Make sure the potatoes and beef are similarly sized for even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor—don’t substitute with powder here!
- Add Broth if Needed: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add ½ cup of beef broth or water to the slow cooker before cooking.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes gold or red, halved if large
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef and Potatoes: Pat the beef bites dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Add them to the slow cooker along with the halved baby potatoes.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, dried thyme, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and potatoes, tossing to coat everything evenly.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft.
- Serve: Stir everything gently to coat in the sauce before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Alternatives and Variations
- Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, or mushrooms for more variety.
- Spices: Swap out the thyme and paprika for Italian seasoning or rosemary.
- Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a luscious sauce.
Common Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes! Brisket, short ribs, or even pork shoulder can be used. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
Feel free to use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dish reheats beautifully and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this recipe in the oven! Bake in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3 hours.
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing an easy meal for busy days, this dish checks all the boxes: flavor, ease, and heartwarming satisfaction.
