Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is such a comforting and easy meal to make. Tender chunks of beef and soft potatoes cook together slowly, soaking up all the buttery garlic flavor. The best part is how everything becomes super flavorful without much effort.
I love how simple this recipe is to set up—just toss the beef, potatoes, garlic, and butter in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I always find the smell while it cooks so inviting, and it makes the house feel cozy. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
When I serve this, I usually add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top to add a little pop of color and freshness. It’s great alongside a simple green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete, satisfying meal. This dish has quickly become a weekend favorite for me and my family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender and juicy in the slow cooker. If you want a leaner option, try sirloin tip or stew meat, but chuck gives the best flavor.
Baby yellow potatoes: I love these since they cook evenly and hold their shape well. You could swap with red potatoes or fingerlings if you like. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can fall apart in the slow cooker.
Butter & garlic: Butter adds richness, and garlic brings bright flavor. If you want to cut dairy, try using olive oil and extra garlic instead.
Beef broth & Worcestershire sauce: These boost savory depth. If you don’t have Worcestershire, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef Stays Tender and Flavorful?
Searing the beef before slow cooking is a great tip—it locks in juices and adds a nice brown crust for flavor. But if you’re short on time, just adding it raw works fine too.
When placing ingredients in the slow cooker:
- Put the potatoes on the bottom; they take longer to cook and act like a tasty base layer.
- Layer the beef on top so it cooks evenly without drying out.
- Pour in the garlic butter sauce over everything for even seasoning.
Cook on low for a longer time; it tenderizes the meat well. Always check the potatoes since bigger pieces might need a little extra cook time. Don’t forget fresh herbs at the end for a fresh, vibrant finish!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the star of the recipe; cooks everything low and slow for tender beef and potatoes.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping the beef into even bite-sized pieces and prepping potatoes and onions.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the garlic butter sauce before pouring over the ingredients.
- Skillet (optional) – great for searing the beef to add extra flavor before slow cooking.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – to easily lift and serve the beef bites and potatoes without extra liquid.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef with boneless pork shoulder or chicken thighs for a different but still juicy result.
- Add carrots or pearl onions for extra sweetness and color; they cook well alongside the potatoes.
- Stir in fresh rosemary or thyme instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant herbal flavor.
- Top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist.
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 lbs baby yellow potatoes, halved or quartered if large
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 6-7 hours to cook on LOW, or 3-4 hours on HIGH in your slow cooker. The long cook time gives the beef a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture while the potatoes soak up delicious flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended):
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip it and cook the beef directly in the slow cooker.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Mix well to make a flavorful sauce.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Place the potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour half of the garlic butter mixture over the potatoes and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Next, spread the beef cubes evenly over the potatoes, then pour the remaining garlic butter mixture on top.
4. Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce:
Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the slow cooker. Give everything a slight stir so the liquids distribute around all the ingredients.
5. Cook 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 tender and potatoes cooked through when done.
6. Final Touches and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pretty, fresh garnish. Serve hot, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the beef and potatoes and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh beef for even cooking and safety. If you only have frozen beef, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cutting into cubes and adding to the slow cooker.
Can I Substitute Other Potatoes?
Yes! Red potatoes or fingerling potatoes work well, too. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets since they can become mushy during slow cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, pearl onions, or green beans are great additions—just add them on top of the potatoes at the beginning of cooking for best results.
