This hearty dish mixes tender beef bites with buttery garlic flavor and soft potatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love firing up the slow cooker and letting it work its magic while I kick back. Honestly, the aroma alone makes it worth the wait. Perfect for cozy nights! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I suggest using sirloin or chuck for a good balance of flavor and tenderness. Chuck is fattier, which gives more richness. You could also try flank or round steak if you want something leaner.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are fantastic because they cook evenly and stay creamy. If they’re not available, red or Yukon gold potatoes are great substitutes. Just make sure to cut them into chunks for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap in garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon should do. But fresh really shines in this recipe!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt in your dish. If you prefer a healthier twist, you could use olive oil entirely or try ghee for a different flavor.
How Do You Get the Beef Perfectly Tender in a Slow Cooker?
The secret to tender beef lies in the slow cooking process. Here’s how to make it work:
- First, sear the beef. This step locks in flavor and improves texture. It’s worth the extra effort!
- Cook low and slow. For the best results, use the LOW setting for around 6-7 hours. This breaks down the tough fibers in beef, making it super tender.
- If you’re short on time, the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours works, but the texture won’t be quite as melt-in-your-mouth.
- Finally, avoid lifting the lid too often while it cooks. Each time you peek, you lose heat!
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cooking Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours of cooking time on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in your slow cooker. It’s a hands-off recipe that lets you simply set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef bites dry using paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear later. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, making sure each piece is coated nicely.
2. Sear the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add the Potatoes:
Scoop the halved baby potatoes into the slow cooker on top of the seared beef. Ensure they are evenly distributed for even cooking.
4. Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and fragrant.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is covered with the sauce for maximum flavor.
6. Slow Cook the Dish:
Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. This will yield tender beef and perfectly cooked potatoes.
7. Final Touches:
Once cooked, taste the dish. Add any additional salt and pepper to your liking. It should be bursting with flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the delicious aromas and flavors as you dig in!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful beef bites combined with buttery garlic goodness and soft potatoes—all made effortlessly in one pot. Perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin and chuck are great choices for tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribs, flank, or round steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a bit depending on the cut you choose.
Are There Any Substitutes for Baby Potatoes?
Yes! You can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into even-sized pieces so they cook thoroughly alongside the beef. Sweet potatoes are also a tasty option if you’re looking for something different!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to liven up the flavors.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Carrots, green beans, or bell peppers would work nicely. Just add them to the slow cooker at the same time as the potatoes. Make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
