Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
A Hearty, Comforting Delight
When you’re craving a cozy meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes. Tender beef bites and baby potatoes, infused with rich garlic butter, make this dish a comforting classic perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this recipe delivers flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, giving you maximum flavor with minimal prep.
- Rich, Comforting Flavors: Garlic butter and tender beef create a satisfying, savory delight.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to cozy weekend gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef bites for 2-3 minutes, browning all sides for extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared beef, halved baby potatoes, beef broth, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Add Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic. Pour this garlic butter mixture over the beef and potatoes.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, gently stir and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herb Substitutes: Swap thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different herbal twist.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar on top before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or zucchini chunks.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
- How do I prevent the beef from drying out?
Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker helps lock in moisture. Using enough broth and cooking on low also ensures tender results. - Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use brisket, round roast, or even short ribs. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with dairy-free alternatives like olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. - Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients without overfilling. - What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. With its tender, flavorful beef and perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is a winner for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors with your favorite sides and savor the cozy warmth of this hearty meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
