Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers incredible flavor. The combination of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich garlic butter sauce makes for a mouthwatering meal that will satisfy the whole family. This recipe features beef chuck or stew meat that’s seared to perfection and paired with baby potatoes cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the results.

What makes this dish so appealing is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The garlic and herbs infuse both the beef and potatoes, creating a comforting, hearty meal. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender while the potatoes soak up all the delicious juices. Whether it’s a weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will always be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Prep Time – The recipe requires just a few steps and minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying meal with little effort.
Tender Beef – By slow-cooking the beef, it becomes incredibly tender, almost melting in your mouth, and full of flavor.
Creamy, Flavorful Potatoes – The baby potatoes cook in the garlic butter sauce, absorbing all the savory flavors, making them the perfect side to the rich beef.
Herb-Infused Goodness – Dried thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika create a flavorful, aromatic blend that enhances the beef and potatoes.
One-Pot Wonder – All of the ingredients are cooked together in the slow cooker, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients

Beef chuck or stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
Unsalted butter (melted)
Garlic (minced)
Dried thyme
Dried rosemary
Smoked paprika
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Beef broth
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, onions, or bell peppers to the slow cooker. They’ll soak up the rich broth and add even more flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
Herb Swap: Swap out rosemary and thyme for other herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Season the beef with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add this garlic-broth mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Toss the potatoes with melted butter, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the potatoes to the slow cooker, placing them on top of the beef.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Stir gently to combine the beef and potatoes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Searing the Beef: While optional, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and texture. The caramelized bits that stick to the pan will add extra depth to the dish.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing the beef, do it in batches to ensure the meat gets a good sear and isn’t overcrowded, which could result in steaming.
Check the Potatoes: Depending on their size, the potatoes may need a little more or less cooking time. Test them with a fork to ensure they’re tender.
Add More Broth: If the potatoes start to get too dry, feel free to add a little extra beef broth to keep everything moist.

How to Serve

This dish can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added broth to keep everything moist.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and then heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a covered dish in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, heat on the stovetop in a covered pot over low heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, frozen beef can be used, but make sure to thaw it properly before searing. You can also skip the searing step if you’re short on time.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Carrots, onions, or parsnips would be great additions. Just chop them and add them to the slow cooker with the potatoes.

3. Can I use a different cut of beef?

While chuck or stew meat works best for slow cooking, you can use other cuts like sirloin or brisket, though they may require different cooking times.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or finely chopped fresh chilies into the garlic-butter mixture.

5. Can I make this dish in a pressure cooker?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker. Cook the beef and potatoes on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes and use the sauté function to brown the beef first.

6. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes! For a creamy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

7. Can I make this dish without searing the beef?

Yes, while searing adds more flavor, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. The slow cooker will still produce tender beef.

8. How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef should be fork-tender when it’s done. It will easily shred or break apart with a fork when cooked properly.

9. Can I double the recipe?

You can double the recipe, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

10. Can I use russet potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes, you can use russet potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they cook through properly.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, creamy potatoes, and a savory garlic butter sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a meal that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!