Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are packed with rich, buttery garlic flavor. This easy beef and potatoes recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef stew meat and baby Yukon gold potatoes, making it a comforting and wholesome meal for any night of the week.

---

PIN FOR LATER!PIN FOR LATER!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: A true set-it-and-forget-it meal.
• Rich Garlic Butter Flavor: Every bite is infused with deep, savory taste.
• Tender, Juicy Beef: Slow cooking ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Customizable: Easily add vegetables or adjust seasonings to fit your taste.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger) – Ensures even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
• Cutting Board & Knife – For prepping garlic and potatoes if needed.
• Measuring Spoons – Helps maintain perfect seasoning balance.
• Mixing Spoon or Tongs – Useful for tossing beef with seasonings.

Preparation Tips

• Use uniform potato sizes for even cooking.
• Opt for high-quality stew meat to achieve the best tenderness.
• Do not skip the butter, as it enhances both flavor and texture.
• Layer ingredients properly to allow the butter and seasonings to distribute evenly.

---

Ingredients (6 Servings)

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 1/2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
• 5 tablespoons butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pads

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Place the beef stew meat in one half of the slow cooker and the potatoes in the other half.
• Evenly season both with onion powder, garlic powder, and seasoned salt.

2. Season and Add Butter

• Gently toss the beef side to evenly distribute the seasoning, keeping it separate from the potatoes.
• Sprinkle the chopped garlic over everything, then top with the pads of butter.

3. Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Spoon the buttery garlic sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker over the beef and potatoes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites pair well with a variety of sides that complement the rich, buttery flavors. Here are eight delicious options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – A light and nutritious side that balances the richness of the dish.
2. Garlic Green Beans – Enhances the garlicky flavor while adding a slight crunch.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized and slightly crispy for a flavorful contrast.
4. Caesar Salad – A fresh and crisp salad with a creamy dressing to lighten the meal.
5. Buttered Corn on the Cob – Sweet and savory, making it a perfect pairing.
6. Dinner Rolls – Ideal for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.
7. Mashed Cauliflower – A low-carb alternative that complements the beef.
8. Parmesan Asparagus – A simple and flavorful vegetable side with a slight crunch.

---

PIN FOR LATER!

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Using the Wrong Cut of Beef

• Stick with stew meat or cubed sirloin for the best texture. Tougher cuts require longer cooking to break down properly.

2. Skipping the Butter

• The butter is essential for creating the rich, flavorful sauce that coats the beef and potatoes. Do not reduce or omit it.

3. Overcrowding the Slow Cooker

• Make sure there is enough space for heat to circulate evenly. Using a slow cooker that is too small may result in uneven cooking.

4. Lifting the Lid Too Often

• Every time the lid is opened, heat escapes, which can extend cooking time and affect tenderness. Keep the lid closed unless stirring or checking for doneness near the end of the cook time.

5. Not Seasoning Properly

• Since slow cooking can sometimes mellow flavors, be sure to season generously. Adjust seasonings at the end if needed.

6. Cooking on High for Too Long

• Cooking on high for too long can make the beef tough. Low and slow is the best way to ensure tender meat.

7. Not Letting the Sauce Thicken

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.

PIN FOR LATER!

Recipe Tips & Variations

• For a faster cook time: Use cubed sirloin instead of stew meat and cook on high for 4 hours instead of low for 6 hours.
• To enhance the sauce: Add 1/2 cup of beef broth for extra moisture and richness.
• For a spicy kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• To make it a complete meal: Add carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the slow cooker.
• For different potatoes: Substitute with red potatoes, sweet potatoes, or russet potatoes for a unique twist.
• To thicken the sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled beef and potatoes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Oven: Warm at 350°F for 10–15 minutes in a covered baking dish to retain moisture.

---

PIN FOR LATER!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes. Cubed sirloin, chuck roast, or short ribs are great alternatives. Cooking times may vary depending on the cut.

2. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook on high for 4 hours, but slow cooking on low for 6 hours provides the best tenderness and flavor.

3. What other seasonings can I use?

You can add paprika, thyme, rosemary, or black pepper for extra depth of flavor.

4. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.

5. How can I prevent my potatoes from getting too soft?

Use baby Yukon gold or red potatoes and avoid cutting them too small to maintain their texture.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes. Carrots, mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans can be added for more variety.

7. What is the best way to thicken the sauce?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes.

8. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute the butter with dairy-free alternatives like plant-based butter or olive oil.

9. What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Steamed vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed cauliflower, or a fresh salad all pair well with this dish.

10. Can I use frozen beef?

It is best to use thawed beef to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time slightly and monitor for doneness.

---

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are a simple, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing the rich garlic butter sauce. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this meal is a great option for busy families or anyone looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner.

Serve it with your favorite sides, store leftovers for later, and enjoy a stress-free meal packed with flavor.