Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes: A Comforting One-Pot Meal
When it comes to easy, satisfying, and delicious meals, slow cooker recipes are a game-changer. They allow you to set everything up, walk away, and return to a perfectly cooked dish with minimal effort. One such recipe that stands out for its flavor and convenience is Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes. With tender beef bites, buttery golden potatoes, and a rich garlic-infused sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set-It-and-Forget-It: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hands-off recipe with incredible results.
- Rich and Flavorful: Garlic butter combined with savory seasonings creates an indulgent taste in every bite.
- Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Slow cooking allows the beef to become ultra-tender and juicy.
- One-Pot Meal: With protein, carbs, and delicious seasonings all in one dish, cleanup is a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 5 tablespoons butter (sliced, for ultimate richness)
- 1 pound baby yellow potatoes (halved or quartered for even cooking)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic (fresh for bold flavor)
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for a herby boost)
- ½ cup beef broth (keeps the beef juicy and flavorful)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami and richness)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (for extra aroma and depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the stew meat into bite-sized chunks if not already pre-cut.
2️⃣ Season the Beef & Potatoes
- In a large bowl, toss the beef bites and potatoes with:
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Seasoned salt & black pepper
- Smoked paprika & Italian seasoning (if using)
- Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3️⃣ Load the Slow Cooker
- Place half of the butter slices at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the seasoned beef bites and potatoes on top.
- Sprinkle the chopped garlic over the ingredients.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce for moisture and flavor.
- Top everything with the remaining butter slices.
4️⃣ Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours for ultra-tender beef.
- OR cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours if short on time.
- Stir once or twice during cooking if possible to ensure even distribution of flavors.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for added freshness.
- Drizzle extra garlic butter on top for an indulgent finishing touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try these serving ideas:
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Over a Bed of Rice or Egg Noodles: This makes the dish even heartier.
- With Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up all the buttery, garlicky juices!
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
- Use the Right Cut of Beef: Choose stew meat, chuck roast, or sirloin for the most tender results.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter adds richness and helps create a flavorful sauce.
- Add Fresh Herbs at the End: This boosts the aroma and makes the dish more vibrant.
- For a Thicker Sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on your taste preferences.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce for more heat.
- Cheesy Garlic Beef Bites: Stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving.
- Mushroom & Onion Twist: Add sliced mushrooms and onions for an earthy, umami-packed variation.
- Creamy Garlic Butter Beef: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is the ultimate cozy, comforting meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and hearty, this dish delivers every time. With its buttery richness, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and tender potatoes, it’s a guaranteed hit!
💬 Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! ⬇️🔥
