Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

This slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes recipe is the kind of comfort food that fills the whole kitchen with savory aromas and makes everyone excited for dinner The beef turns meltingly tender as it cooks in a rich garlic butter sauce and the potatoes soak up all that flavor You just set it and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day

My family devoured this the very first time I made it and I have not had leftovers since It is always a crowd pleaser at our weekend gatherings

Ingredients

• Beef chuck roast or sirloin cubes: These cuts become buttery soft as they slow cook Choose well marbled beef for maximum tenderness
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning brings out the beef flavor Freshly cracked black pepper gives the best aroma
• Garlic powder: Adds garlicky depth Choose a fresh jar for most potent flavor
• Smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky touch Look for Spanish smoked paprika if you can
• Olive oil: For searing Choose extra virgin for a smooth taste Searing is optional but gives amazing extra flavor
• Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds: Use firm waxy potatoes so they hold their shape Select potatoes with unblemished skins
• Butter: Real unsalted butter gives a rich base Use high quality butter for the best sauce
• Fresh garlic: Nothing beats freshly minced garlic for punchy taste Six cloves really infuse the dish
• Thyme and rosemary: These herbs add classic earthiness Fresh herbs are extra fragrant but dried work great too
• Beef broth: Deepens the sauce Flavorful broth ensures every bite is juicy Choose low sodium if you like
• Worcestershire sauce: Perks up the sauce with savory zip Use a well known brand for that signature taste
• Fresh parsley: For garnish Adds color and a burst of fresh taste
• Grated Parmesan: For optional finishing Adds nutty richness Grate your own Parmesan for the finest flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

Pat the beef chunks very dry with paper towels This step is essential for proper browning and helps seasoning stick Sprinkle salt pepper garlic powder and smoked paprika evenly over the beef making sure each piece gets coated For extra flavor heat olive oil in a skillet to medium high and sear the beef in batches letting each side get golden brown Searing caramelizes the outside and locks in juices but this is an optional step if you are short on time

Prepare the Potatoes:

Rinse and cut the potatoes into halves or quarters if they are large In a big bowl toss them with olive oil salt and pepper This gives each potato a chance to pick up the seasoning and ensures they cook evenly

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Melt the butter fully until liquid Mix in minced garlic thyme rosemary beef broth and Worcestershire sauce Whisk well so the herbs distribute throughout the sauce

Assemble in the Slow Cooker:

Layer the seasoned potatoes as the base in the slow cooker Spread the seasoned beef on top in an even layer Pour the garlic butter sauce all over making sure to coat every piece of potato and beef

Cook:

Fit on the slow cooker lid and turn to your chosen setting For low heat plan for six to eight hours For high heat three to four hours is enough The beef should be fork tender and easy to pull apart and the potatoes should be soft but not falling apart Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Garnish and Serve:

Before serving sprinkle with parsley for a fresh finish If you are feeling indulgent add grated Parmesan The dish is best served hot and goes great with a green salad or crusty bread

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The fresh garlic is hands down my favorite ingredient Every time I chop those cloves I remember cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen where she said garlic brings dishes to life My kids always sneak into the kitchen just to smell this cooking

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist This recipe also freezes great Portion into containers and freeze for up to three months for an easy meal later

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in stew beef or even boneless short ribs for a slightly richer version Red potatoes hold their shape nicely if you want a change from Yukon Gold If you are out of fresh herbs dried will absolutely work just use a third of the amount

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this over a scoop of mashed potatoes or even steamed rice for double comfort It pairs well with steamed green beans or just a pile of buttered peas For parties spoon the beef bites and potatoes into a big serving bowl and let everyone help themselves

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Cultural and Historical Context

Slow cooked beef dishes pop up in so many cuisines from French pot roast to classic American Sunday dinners The garlic butter twist in this recipe gives a nod to both French and Italian flavors It brings those old fashioned stew vibes but with a buttery upgrade

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the beef extra tender?

For maximum tenderness, use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast, and allow the dish to cook on the low setting for several hours until the beef becomes fork-tender.

→ Should I sear the beef before slow cooking?

Searing adds a richer, deeper flavor through caramelization, but it's optional—simply season and add the beef directly if you're short on time.

→ Can I use different potatoes?

Yes. Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds work well for their creamy texture, but red potatoes or even quartered russets may also be used.

→ What herbs can be substituted for thyme and rosemary?

Fresh or dried oregano or Italian seasoning can be used for a different herbal profile, matching your taste preferences.

→ How do I serve these garlic butter beef bites and potatoes?

This meal is delicious served straight from the slow cooker. Add chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and pair with crusty bread or salad for a complete meal.

→ Can the dish be prepped ahead?

Absolutely—season and cube beef, mix garlic butter sauce, and prep potatoes the night before. Combine and cook when ready!