These Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes are simply mouth-watering! Tender beef pieces simmer in a rich butter and garlic sauce, making every bite full of flavor.
What’s better? All you need to do is toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Perfect for busy days when you crave something warm and tasty! 🥔🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using beef sirloin or stew meat for this dish. They become tender in the slow cooker. If you need a substitution, chuck roast or flank steak works well too!
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are my favorite for their creamy texture. You can replace them with regular potatoes; just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a backup. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Beef Broth: It enhances the dish’s flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, vegetable broth works too. You can also use water in a pinch, though it won’t be as tasty!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the seasoning. If you’re short on time or want a healthier option, you can substitute half the butter with olive oil.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear My Beef?
Searing your beef adds amazing flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a hot skillet and let the oil heat up before adding the beef. This prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches for even cooking. Letting them brown for 2-3 minutes per side creates a nice crust.
- After searing, transfer the beef to the slow cooker immediately to capture those yummy juices.
Following these steps will help you build a base of flavor that makes your dish shine! Enjoy cooking!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 pounds (700g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
For the Saucy Goodness:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then you just let the slow cooker do its magic! Cook time is approximately 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
In a large bowl, toss the beef bites with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until they are well coated. This step builds the flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This adds a lovely flavor! Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
3. Create the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In the same skillet, add the melted butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scrapping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor!
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. This will create a delicious sauce that’ll soak into everything!
5. Add the Potatoes:
Place the halved or quartered baby potatoes around and on top of the beef in the slow cooker. They will soak up all the wonderful flavors as they cook.
6. Cook it Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be perfectly tender, and the potatoes nice and fluffy.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Once everything is done, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it just right!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for more even cooking. Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water for a quicker option. Avoid cooking with frozen chunks directly in the slow cooker as it may lengthen cooking time.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re out of baby potatoes, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. For a lower-carb option, consider using cauliflower florets or even carrots!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep everything moist.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Bites?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes to soak up the savory sauce!
