Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe

Tangy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe

Beef bites simmering in garlic butter promise a mouthwatering adventure right in your slow cooker.

Tender chunks of meat nestle alongside golden potatoes, creating comfort on a plate.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delicious solutions that satisfy hungry appetites.

Minimal prep work means maximum flavor without complicated cooking techniques.

Every bite delivers rich, savory goodness that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Hearty ingredients blend together effortlessly, promising a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Dive into this foolproof recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

How to Get the Best from Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

  • Simplify Dinner Prep: Throw ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the magic, creating a hearty meal with minimal hands-on cooking.
  • Maximize Flavor Punch: Searing beef before slow cooking locks in rich, deep flavors while butter and garlic create an irresistible taste profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Kid and Adult Approved: Tender beef bites and soft potatoes make this a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies picky eaters and food enthusiasts alike, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
  • Minimal Cleanup Delight: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash, giving you more time to relax and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without the kitchen chaos.

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Protein:
  • Beef Bites: Tender chunks of beef perfect for slow cooking and absorbing rich flavors.
Vegetables:
  • Baby Potatoes: Small, creamy potatoes that become soft and flavorful during slow cooking.
Seasoning and Flavoring:
  • Olive Oil: Used for initial searing to develop a golden brown crust on the beef.
  • Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps distribute the garlic and herb flavors.
  • Minced Garlic: Provides a deep, aromatic flavor to the dish.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky and slightly sweet taste.
  • Onion Powder: Enhances the overall savory profile of the recipe.
  • Dried Parsley, Thyme: Herbal seasonings that complement the beef and potatoes.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional topping that adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

Cooking Directions for Beef Bites & Potatoes

Step 1: Brown Beef Bites

Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat.

Carefully place beef bites into the pan and sear each side until they develop a rich golden-brown color, creating a delicious outer crust.

This process takes about 2-3 minutes per side, sealing in the meat’s juicy flavors.

Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Move the beautifully seared beef bites directly into the slow cooker, arranging them evenly across the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Add Potato Companions

Gently place baby potatoes around and between the beef bites, creating a delightful mix of protein and starch.

Step 4: Create Flavor Explosion

Prepare the magical seasoning mixture using:
  • Melted butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Dried parsley
  • Thyme
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Whisk these ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.

Pour the fragrant mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, ensuring every morsel gets coated with deliciousness.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

During this time, the beef will become incredibly tender, and the potatoes will absorb all the rich, buttery flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Celebrate

Once cooking is complete, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serve the beef bites and potatoes piping hot, ready to delight everyone at the table.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

  • Pat beef dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in maximum flavor.
  • Select chuck roast or sirloin tips for tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef bites that remain juicy during slow cooking.
  • Cut potatoes into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the final flavor profile, adding brightness and aromatic depth to the beef and potatoes.
  • If sauce seems thin after cooking, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the liquid to create a richer, more luxurious consistency.

Variations to Try with Beef Bites & Potatoes

  • Herb-Infused Alternative: Replace dried herbs with fresh rosemary, oregano, and basil for a brighter, more aromatic flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Swap paprika with chipotle powder, add cumin, and include diced green chilies for a zesty Southwestern-style meal.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes, choose grass-fed beef cuts, and increase butter for a low-carb adaptation.
  • Mediterranean Transformation: Incorporate green olives, sundried tomatoes, and sprinkle feta cheese during the last hour of cooking for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

  • Family Feast Delight: Pair this hearty dish with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, savory flavors of the beef and potatoes.
  • Rustic Bread Companion: Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce from the slow cooker.
  • Wine and Dine Pairing: Complement the beef with a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to enhance the robust meat flavors.
  • Veggie Fresh Touch: Add a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus to bring color, nutrition, and a light contrast to the main dish.

Storing Leftovers of Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the beef and potatoes are completely cooled before sealing.
  • Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.
  • Spread leftovers in a baking dish, add a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

No, always thaw beef completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety. Frozen meat can lead to uneven temperatures and potential bacterial growth.

  • What type of beef cut works best?

Chuck roast or sirloin tip work perfectly. They’re tender cuts that become incredibly soft during slow cooking and absorb flavors wonderfully.

  • Is it necessary to sear the beef before slow cooking?

Yes, searing creates a delicious golden-brown crust and locks in rich flavors. This step adds depth and complexity to the overall taste of the dish.

  • Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

While a slow cooker is ideal, you can adapt this recipe to an oven. Use a covered Dutch oven and cook at 325°F for approximately 3-4 hours, checking liquid levels periodically.

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Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe


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4.8 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mouthwatering slow cooker garlic butter beef bites & potatoes blend hearty flavors from classic comfort cooking. Tender meat and creamy potatoes combine in one simple, satisfying meal that delivers rich, savory comfort you’ll crave again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) baby potatoes, halved

Seasonings and Flavorings:

  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sear beef pieces in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, creating a rich caramelized exterior.
  2. Carefully transfer browned beef into the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is evenly placed.
  3. Add whole baby potatoes around and between the beef pieces to maximize flavor absorption.
  4. Create a robust seasoning blend by whisking melted butter with minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
  5. Pour the aromatic butter mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
  6. Secure the slow cooker lid and cook on LOW temperature for 6-7 hours, or alternatively on HIGH for 3-4 hours until meat becomes exceptionally tender and potatoes are perfectly soft.
  7. Once cooking is complete, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the dish for a vibrant finishing touch and additional layer of herbaceous flavor.
  8. Serve immediately while warm, allowing the rich garlic butter sauce to complement the succulent beef and creamy potatoes.

Notes

  • Searing the beef beforehand locks in incredible flavor and creates a beautiful golden-brown exterior that adds depth to the final dish.
  • Choose chuck roast or sirloin for maximum tenderness and rich marbling, which helps keep the meat juicy during slow cooking.
  • Consider reducing butter by half and replacing with low-sodium broth for a lighter version that still maintains rich taste and moisture.
  • Gluten-free and keto dieters can enjoy this recipe without modifications, making it a versatile meal option for various nutritional needs.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 354 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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