This dish is packed with tender beef bites and flavorful garlic butter, all cooked slowly to perfection. Plus, there are little potatoes that soak up all the delicious juices!
If you love easy meals where everything cooks in one pot, this is for you! Just toss the ingredients in, set the slow cooker, and forget about it—until it’s time to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I like using sirloin for its tenderness, but chuck roast is great for a more economical option with more flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with chicken or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are my favorite for their creamy texture. If you can’t find them, you can use regular potatoes, just cut them into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. I recommend using 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove to keep the taste right.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal since you control the saltiness. You could use olive oil if you’re looking for a healthier fat or want to keep it dairy-free.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary work well. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead; just double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also try Italian seasoning for a twist!
How Do I Get Tender, Flavorful Beef Bites?
To achieve tender beef bites, searing them first is crucial. This step not only locks in flavors but also creates a beautiful crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add beef in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan, which ensures browning.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until you see a nice golden color.
- Remove the beef to a plate and let it sit; resting helps keep it juicy.
By following these steps, you set the stage for a delicious meal! Remember to stir things gently after all cooking is done to maintain that tenderness.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (red or yellow), halved if large
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Cook:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take only about 15 minutes of prep time! After that, you just need to let the slow cooker work its magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned nicely all around. This step locks in the flavors! Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This sauce will give your dish an amazing flavor!
3. Layer in the Slow Cooker:
Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour half of the garlic butter sauce over the potatoes and give them a little toss to coat. Then, layer the seared beef on top of the potatoes and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the beef.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it cook until the beef is tender, and the potatoes are fully cooked through. You can relax while the flavors meld together!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the cooking time is complete, give everything a gentle stir in the slow cooker to mix the flavors. Finally, garnish your hearty meal with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch before serving!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes! It’s sure to become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s important to thaw it first! Thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water for a quicker method. Make sure it’s fully thawed before cutting it into cubes and searing.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are a great option, you can use carrots, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes. Just be sure to cut everything into similar sizes to ensure even cooking in the slow cooker.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a pot on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the beef and potatoes the night before, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just combine with the garlic butter sauce and set the slow cooker in the morning for a delicious dinner by the evening!
