This cozy dish features tender beef bites simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with soft potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
Who doesn’t love a dinner that pretty much cooks itself? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and dinner will be ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: I usually go for chuck steak since it becomes super tender during slow cooking. You can swap it with sirloin or even brisket if you prefer. Just make sure it’s a cut that can handle long cooking times.
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect because they hold their shape well. If you don’t have baby potatoes, use regular potatoes—just chop them into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter for more control over the seasoning. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use olive oil instead. It won’t have the same creamy richness, but it will still taste good!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this dish because it gives a strong flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work—use about 1 teaspoon per clove to replace five cloves of fresh garlic.
How Do You Make Sure the Beef is Tender?
The secret to tender beef bites lies in both the cooking method and the timing. Slow cooking is key, as it allows the tough fibers in the meat to break down. Here’s how to ensure the best results:
- Don’t Rush the Searing: If you choose to sear the beef, take your time. This adds flavor and creates a tasty crust.
- Keep it Covered: Ensure the slow cooker lid stays on during cooking to maintain moisture. Avoid lifting the lid for the first few hours.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for 6-7 hours nurtures tenderness. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours but keep an eye on it.
Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 pounds beef steak, cut into bite-sized cubes (such as sirloin or chuck)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This amazing dish will take about 15 minutes for prep time and then 6-7 hours on low in the slow cooker (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s perfect for a day when you want something delicious without spending all your time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside. This mixture is going to flavor your beef and potatoes beautifully!
2. Sear the Beef Bites (Optional):
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the bite-sized beef pieces and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are browned on all sides. This step adds great flavor, but you can skip it if you want to keep things simple.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
Spread the halved baby potatoes evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will give them a chance to absorb the delicious flavors as they cook.
4. Add the Beef:
Next, layer the seared beef bites over the potatoes. Make sure they’re spread out for even cooking.
5. Pour the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now, drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the beef and potatoes, ensuring everything is coated well.
6. Add the Beef Broth:
Pour the beef broth around the sides of the slow cooker. You want to keep that garlic butter mixture intact on top to create a great crust!
7. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are fully cooked.
8. Serve It Up:
When it’s ready, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for that pop of color. Serve warm, and don’t forget to spoon that flavorful garlic butter sauce over everything!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, place the sealed beef in a bowl of cold water until thawed. Avoid cooking from frozen as it may not tenderize properly in the slow cooker.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! If you want to try something different, you can substitute baby potatoes with carrots, sweet potatoes, or even parsnips. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetable used.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to ensure even warming. You may want to add a splash of broth to moisten it up!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture. Alternatively, you can include some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when serving for an extra layer of spice!
