Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

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There’s something truly comforting about a slow-cooked meal, especially when it’s as rich and flavorful as these garlic butter beef bites with potatoes. The tender beef, infused with a buttery garlic sauce, pairs perfectly with the soft, creamy baby potatoes. Every bite is packed with savory goodness, making it the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep favorite.

I love this recipe because it requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been cooking all day—because it has! The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the potatoes soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness.

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

• Effortless Cooking – Let the slow cooker do all the work for you. Just toss in the ingredients and let the magic happen.
• Rich & Buttery Flavor – The combination of garlic, butter, and slow-cooked beef is irresistible.
• Hearty & Satisfying – This dish is packed with protein and comforting potatoes, making it a full meal in one pot.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

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What Cut of Beef Should I Use?

For this recipe, I recommend using beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into bite-sized pieces. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking because they become incredibly tender as they cook low and slow. Chuck roast has a good amount of marbling, which adds richness to the dish. If you prefer leaner beef, sirloin tips can work, but they won’t be as juicy.

If you can’t find pre-cut stew meat, simply buy a chuck roast and cube it yourself. This way, you can control the size of the beef bites and ensure even cooking.

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Options for Substitutions

This dish is versatile, and you can make a few swaps if needed:

• Potatoes – Baby yellow potatoes are great because they hold their shape well, but you can use red potatoes, Yukon gold, or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
• Butter – If you’re dairy-free, swap butter for ghee or olive oil. You’ll still get a rich flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but garlic powder can work in a pinch (use 1 teaspoon per clove).
• Herbs – Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, but rosemary or thyme would also complement the flavors.
• Broth – While this recipe doesn’t require extra liquid, adding a splash of beef broth can enhance the depth of flavor and prevent sticking.

These small adjustments can help customize the dish while keeping the essence of the slow-cooked garlic butter beef bites intact.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish flavorful and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Beef stew meat (2 pounds) – This cut becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked, absorbing all the buttery, garlicky goodness.
• Baby yellow potatoes (1 pound) – These hold their shape well while cooking and have a naturally creamy texture.
• Butter (5 tablespoons, sliced) – The key to a rich, savory sauce that coats the beef and potatoes beautifully.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Provides that signature bold, aromatic flavor that ties the dish together.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef and potatoes.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon) – Gives extra savory flavor without needing fresh onions.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brings a pop of color and a touch of freshness.

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting your beef into bite-sized cubes if it isn’t already pre-cut. Wash and dry the baby potatoes, then slice them in half if they’re on the larger side. Mince the garlic and set aside.

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Step 2: Season the Beef

In a large bowl, season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the seasonings.

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Step 3: Arrange in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned beef and baby potatoes in the slow cooker. Scatter the minced garlic over the top for even distribution. Add slices of butter on top to ensure everything is coated as it melts.

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Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft. Stir gently halfway through if desired.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once fully cooked, give everything a good stir to coat the beef and potatoes with the buttery sauce. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

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How Long to Cook Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

The key to tender beef and perfectly cooked potatoes is low and slow cooking. Here’s the ideal cooking time:

• On low: 6-8 hours for the most tender, fall-apart beef.
• On high: 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.

Cooking on low is the best option if you want deep, rich flavors and ultra-tender meat. If using a tougher cut, lean towards the longer cook time.

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Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

• Sear the beef first (optional): For extra depth of flavor, quickly sear the beef in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker. This caramelization enhances the overall taste.
• Cut potatoes evenly: If using larger baby potatoes, slice them in half to ensure they cook at the same rate as the beef.
• Layer wisely: Placing the beef at the bottom and potatoes on top helps everything cook evenly and prevents mushy potatoes.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste before serving and add extra salt, pepper, or garlic if needed.
• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger, more vibrant flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Add a splash of broth: If you want a little extra sauce, a small amount of beef broth can enhance the richness.

Following these tips will guarantee a flavorful, comforting meal that’s cooked to perfection every time.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is easy, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using the wrong cut of beef – Leaner cuts like sirloin dry out in the slow cooker. Stick to chuck roast or stew meat for the best texture.
• Skipping the seasoning – Seasoning the beef well before cooking is key to a flavorful dish. Don’t forget the salt, pepper, and spices!
• Overcrowding the slow cooker – If your slow cooker is too full, the beef and potatoes may not cook evenly. Use a larger slow cooker if needed.
• Not cooking long enough – The beef needs enough time to break down and become tender. If it’s still tough, let it cook longer.
• Forgetting to stir occasionally – While not required, stirring once during cooking ensures even distribution of flavors.
• Adding too much liquid – The beef and butter release enough juices, so extra broth is usually unnecessary unless you want a thinner sauce.
• Not tasting before serving – Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end if needed. A little extra salt or garlic can make a big difference.

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What to Serve With Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crusty Bread

A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.

2. Steamed Vegetables

Lighten up the meal with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.

3. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors.

4. Rice or Quinoa

Serve over rice or quinoa if you want to stretch the meal and soak up the extra sauce.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delicious contrast to the tender beef.

6. Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms with garlic and Parmesan make a flavorful, earthy side.

7. Creamy Coleslaw

A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery dish.

8. Mashed Cauliflower

For a low-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower is a great substitute for potatoes.

These sides complement the beef and potatoes while adding variety to your meal.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers store well, making this a great meal for prepping ahead. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled beef and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave in 30-second intervals, or heat them on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep them moist. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

While exact values depend on portion sizes and ingredient brands, here’s an estimate per serving:

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~40g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~20g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sodium: Varies based on seasoning and butter used

This dish is high in protein, filling, and packed with rich flavors while remaining relatively balanced. Adjust portion sizes based on your dietary needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook it in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot at 300°F (150°C) for about 3 hours, or simmer it on the stovetop over low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

2. Do I need to brown the beef before slow cooking?

No, but it adds extra flavor! Searing the beef in a hot pan with a little oil before adding it to the slow cooker creates a richer, deeper taste.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! While baby yellow potatoes work best, you can use red potatoes, Yukon gold, or even russet potatoes cut into chunks.

4. How do I prevent my beef from drying out?

Use marbled cuts like chuck roast, cook on low for longer, and avoid overcooking on high heat. Adding a splash of beef broth can help keep it moist.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans would be great additions. Add them during the last 2 hours of cooking to prevent over-softening.

6. What can I use instead of butter?

If you’re dairy-free, swap the butter for ghee, olive oil, or a plant-based butter alternative.

7. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare with minimal effort. Save this recipe to Pinterest, share it with family and friends, and enjoy a comforting homemade meal anytime!

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