These Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are super tasty! With juicy beef and tender potatoes, they make a great, cozy meal that’s easy to prepare.
I love how the garlic butter adds a rich flavor that makes my kitchen smell amazing. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for any day when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: I recommend using chuck roast because it gets tender and flavorful in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works too, but make sure it’s not overcooked, or it may dry out.
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes are fine. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt in the dish. If you need a dairy-free alternative, try using olive oil or coconut oil for a nice flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use about 1 teaspoon instead of 4 cloves. It’s not quite the same, but it’ll do.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Beef?
Browning the beef first is an important technique that enhances the flavor. This process, called *searing*, locks in juices and adds a rich, deep flavor to the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove from skillet and transfer to the slow cooker. This step really makes a difference!
Don’t skip this step if you want a rich and satisfying meal. You’ll love the results! Enjoy your cooking!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus cooking time in your slow cooker. If you’re cooking on LOW, plan for about 6-7 hours; if you’re on HIGH, it’ll take around 3-4 hours. In total, you’re looking at a cozy meal ready to enjoy in under 8 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until everything is combined into a flavorful garlic butter mixture.
2. Coat the Beef:
Now, add the beef cubes to the bowl and toss them around, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture. This step is key for adding flavor!
3. Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, place the beef cubes in the pan and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional, but it really helps lock in the flavor and makes the beef taste amazing!
4. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef cubes to your slow cooker. Next, scatter the halved baby potatoes around the beef. This’ll make sure they soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking!
5. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour the beef broth over the beef and potatoes. This will keep everything moist and tender.
6. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is super tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the beef and potatoes from the slow cooker and place them in a serving dish. Don’t forget to spoon any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor!
8. Final Touch:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This meal is a warm and comforting delight, perfect for a busy weeknight. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your tasty Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes!
FAQ for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Avoid cooking it straight from frozen, as it may not reach the desired tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Baby Potatoes?
If you can’t find baby potatoes, regular potatoes will work just fine! Just cut them into similar sizes (about 1-2 inch pieces) to ensure they cook evenly. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrition.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep the dish moist when reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots or green beans. Just keep in mind that different veggies might require slight adjustments in cooking time. Add them during the last hour of cooking to ensure they retain some texture.
