As I sank into the cozy embrace of my couch after a long day, my stomach grumbled, begging for something more than takeout. It was then I decided to whip up these Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes—my go-to comfort food that turns a simple weeknight into a memorable feast. With each forkful, you’ll savor tender beef bites smothered in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce, perfectly complemented by velvety baby potatoes that soak up all that goodness. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless prep; just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you relax. It’s truly a heartwarming meal that brings family together, especially on those chilly evenings. Want to discover how to make this comforting dish with minimal fuss? Let’s dive into the details! Why You’ll Crave This Recipe Irresistible Comfort: Think of the warm, hearty embrace of perfectly tender beef and creamy potatoes drenched in rich garlic butter—a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Effortless Preparation: With just a quick prep and the magic of the slow cooker, dinner is ready without fuss, giving you more time to unwind after a busy day. Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with savory flavors thanks to the aromatic garlic and herbs, while smoked paprika adds an enthralling depth that keeps you coming back for more. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish will quickly become a staple at your dining table—especially when paired with crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that delicious sauce. Customizable Options: Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch up the beef cut or add vibrant veggies like carrots or green beans for a nutritional boost. Looking for a lighter twist? Try using chicken thighs instead! If you’re a fan of comforting meals, you might also enjoy Cheesy Garlic Chicken or the satisfying flavors of Garlic Shrimp Mashed to brighten your cooking repertoire! Garlic Butter Beef Bites Ingredients For the Beef Bites • Beef stew meat – Perfectly tenderizes in the slow cooker, creating a rich and hearty base. • Unsalted butter – Forms the delicious garlic butter sauce; substitute with ghee for a dairy-free option. • Garlic – Provides a fresh and robust flavor; always opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-chopped. • Black pepper – Freshly ground offers the best flavor; adjust to your taste preference. For the Potatoes • Baby potatoes – Halves easily for even cooking; larger ones should be cut uniformly. • Beef broth – Keeps the dish moist as it cooks; opt for low-sodium broth for a healthier version. • Olive oil – Used for searing the beef; can be replaced with any cooking oil of your choice. For Seasoning • Onion powder – Enhances overall depth of flavor; fresh onions can be sautéed instead for added freshness. • Smoked paprika – Adds a lovely smoky note to the dish; substitute with regular paprika if needed. • Dried thyme – Infuses aromatic notes; fresh thyme works wonderfully too—just reduce the amount slightly. • Dried rosemary – Brings fragrance; fresh is brighter in flavor, so use it sparingly. • Salt – Vital for overall flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste, especially if using seasoned broth. This wholesome and satisfying Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes dish is sure to warm your heart on those chilly evenings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Step 1: Prep the Ingredients Begin by cutting the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. If you prefer, halve the baby potatoes so they cook quickly and soak up all that delicious garlic butter. For a head start, consider parboiling the potatoes for about 5 minutes, as this will help them finish cooking perfectly in the slow cooker. Step 2: Sear the Beef Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef pieces in batches, browning them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a lovely golden crust. This step locks in the flavors, so don’t skip it! Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker once completed. Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce In a small bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and mix in freshly minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. The aroma will be heavenly! This garlic butter sauce will transform your garlic butter beef bites into a rich, savory delight. Step 4: Assemble in the Slow Cooker Place the halved baby potatoes into the slow cooker with the seared beef. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the mixture, then add about 1 cup of beef broth, ensuring everything is slightly submerged. Give it a gentle stir to combine, allowing each component to absorb those wonderful flavors as the slow cooker works its magic. Step 5: Cook and Enjoy Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and flavorful. If using the low setting, you can check the doneness around the 6-hour mark. Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving, to enhance the flavors in your comforting Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes. Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Beef Bites Customize your Garlic Butter Beef Bites and elevate the flavors with these delightful variations! Different Beef Cuts: Switch to sirloin or chuck roast for varied tastes. Each cut offers its own tender charm; explore what you love best! Vegetable Boost: Add carrots or green beans to the mix for color and nutrients. These veggies soak up that garlic butter beautifully, enhancing every bite. Lighter Chicken Option: Swap beef for chicken thighs for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor. Just adjust cooking times to keep them juicy and tender. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a welcome heat that will entice spicy food lovers! Worcestershire or Soy Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can deepen the umami flavor. It’s a simple twist that brings complexity to the dish. Creamy Version: Add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking for an extra creamy sauce that’s rich and comforting. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for brightness and freshness. A sprinkle just before serving adds layers of flavor and color. Potato Alternatives: Try using sweet potatoes or even cauliflower for a different texture—both absorb that garlic butter wonderfully! Embrace the freedom to explore and create your own twist on this comforting classic. If you need more inspiration, consider pairing it with a side of Cheesy Garlic Chicken or some luscious Garlic Herb Butter to enhance your meal experience! Make Ahead Options These Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes are a perfect choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the beef and halve the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the garlic butter sauce (melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs) a day ahead and refrigerate it as well. When it’s time to cook, simply sear the beef, combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and add the beef broth. This way, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal ready to go with minimal effort on a busy night—just as delicious as if you made it fresh! Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep the dish cool to maintain its rich flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the garlic butter beef bites and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry to retain moisture and flavor. Make-Ahead: Prepare everything ahead of time and store prepped ingredients separately in the fridge. Assemble and cook when you’re ready for this comforting meal! Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Beef Bites • Choose the Right Beef: Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck or beef stew meat; they become tender during slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts to prevent dryness. • Essential Searing: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the beef locks in flavors, creating a richer taste in your garlic butter sauce. • Cooking Time Matters: Monitor your cooking time closely. Check for doneness earlier with a meat thermometer, particularly if you’re using the high setting. • Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the dish significantly; steer clear of pre-chopped garlic for the best results. • Taste and Adjust: Remember to taste the dish before serving to fine-tune seasonings. Feel free to adjust salt and pepper to your liking—especially crucial if using broth. What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes Create a heartwarming meal that complements tender beef bites and creamy potatoes. Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to soak up the luscious garlic butter sauce, making every bite a flavorful delight. Steamed Green Beans: These add a vibrant crunch to your plate, balancing richness with a fresh, tender bite. Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish, offering brightness and a crunchy texture. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Elevate comfort by offering a different texture; these will be an inviting, velvety addition to each forkful. Garlic Bread: Go bold with flavors by serving buttery garlic bread; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can quickly become a must-have side. Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory beef, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a pop of color. Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine will elevate your dining experience, complementing the dish’s richness splendidly. Chocolate Cake: Delight in a decadent dessert featuring velvety chocolate; it wraps up your hearty meal on a perfect sweet note. Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right beef for this recipe? Absolutely! For the most tender and flavorful result, opt for well-marbled beef cuts like chuck roast or beef stew meat. These cuts become beautifully tender during the slow cooking process. Lean cuts can dry out, so it’s best to avoid them for this dish! What if I can’t find baby potatoes? No problem! If baby potatoes aren’t available, you can use larger potatoes—just cut them into uniform chunks so they cook evenly. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work beautifully and will still soak up that delicious garlic butter flavor. How should I store leftovers? Very easily! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up! Can I reheat the garlic butter beef bites and potatoes? Of course! To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry. You can also use the microwave; just be sure to cover it to retain moisture, heating it until warmed through. What’s the best way to freeze this dish? Here’s a great method for freezing: Allow the Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes to cool completely. Then, portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label them with the date, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, the recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free beef broth and ensuring all seasonings are gluten-free. Likewise, for dairy-free options, substitute the unsalted butter with ghee or a suitable dairy-free butter alternative. Always adjust seasonings cautiously for those with salt-related dietary restrictions as well! Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for Cozy Comfort Nights Enjoy Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes, the perfect comfort food for cozy nights, featuring tender beef and creamy potatoes in a rich garlic butter sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 peopleCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef Bites2 pounds Beef stew meat Cut into bite-sized pieces1/2 cup Unsalted butter Melted for garlic butter sauce4 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh1 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly groundFor the Potatoes2 pounds Baby potatoes Halved for even cooking1 cup Beef broth Low sodium preferred1 tablespoon Olive oil For searing beefFor Seasoning1 teaspoon Onion powder Can substitute with fresh onions1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Substitute with regular if needed1 teaspoon Dried thyme Fresh thyme can be used1 teaspoon Dried rosemary Use fresh sparingly1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste Equipment Slow Cookerskilletcutting boardKnifemeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrep the Ingredients: Cut beef into bite-sized pieces and halve baby potatoes.Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown beef on all sides for 4-5 minutes, then transfer to slow cooker.Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Mix melted butter, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place potatoes and beef in the slow cooker, pour garlic butter sauce and beef broth over them.Cook and Enjoy: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg NotesFor a lighter option, substitute beef with chicken thighs. This meal is perfect for freezing and reheating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
