Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It's effortless, flavorful, and can be made with minimal hands-on time. With tender beef cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce and potatoes that soak up all the delicious flavors, this meal is ideal for busy days or cozy weekends. The best part? The slow cooker does all the hard work for you!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup beef broth

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the beef: Season the beef bites with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.

2. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add this to the slow cooker.

3. Prepare the potatoes: Toss the potatoes with the melted butter, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the potatoes to the slow cooker, placing them on top of the beef.

4. Cook the dish: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.

5. Finish and garnish: Stir gently to combine the beef and potatoes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high

Variations

• Add vegetables: Include carrots, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.

• Herb swap: Use fresh thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic dish.

• Vegan option: Replace beef with tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck roast, stew meat, or sirloin tips work well. Just ensure the cut is suitable for slow cooking.

Do I need to sear the beef first?

Searing adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it if short on time.

Can I use larger potatoes?

Yes, chop larger potatoes into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

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

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

How can I make the potatoes crispier?

Transfer cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes for a golden, crispy finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and seasonings used are gluten-free.

Can I add onions?

Absolutely! Add sliced onions to the slow cooker for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. With tender beef, buttery potatoes, and savory garlic, it’s a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal that requires little effort and delivers big on taste. Make it today for a no-fuss, comforting meal that everyone will love!

Print