Garlic Butter Beef Potatoes

This garlic butter beef bites with potatoes recipe transforms simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal with minimal hands-on time. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding the flavors together while you go about your day, resulting in tender beef and perfectly cooked potatoes bathed in a savory garlic butter sauce.

I first made this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something comforting but had zero energy for cooking. The incredible smell when I walked through the door after work instantly became a memory my family associates with cozy evenings together.

Ingredients

• Beef stew meat: 1.5 pounds These economical cuts become incredibly tender in the slow cooker and absorb all the flavors beautifully
• Baby potatoes: 1 pound Their waxy texture holds up well during slow cooking and they develop a buttery inside
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons Forms the base of our flavor-packed sauce look for grass-fed for better flavor
• Garlic: 3 cloves The star aromatic that infuses everything with its magical flavor fresh is non-negotiable here
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon Provides sweet onion flavor without actual onion pieces perfect for picky eaters
• Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon Adds depth and a subtle smoky note that complements beef wonderfully
• Dried thyme and rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon each These classic herbs pair perfectly with beef and potatoes
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning elements that enhance all other flavors
• Beef broth: 1/4 cup Provides moisture and intensifies the meaty flavor look for low-sodium options
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon Used for searing the beef which develops flavor through caramelization

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep ingredients:

First gather and prepare all components by cutting beef into uniform bite-sized chunks this ensures even cooking. Halve the baby potatoes keeping them relatively similar in size. Having everything ready before you begin makes the process seamless.

Sear the beef:

Heat olive oil in a skillet until nearly smoking. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding which would steam rather than sear the meat. Brown each piece on all sides for about 2 minutes total. This step is crucial as it creates the Maillard reaction developing deep flavor compounds that will infuse the entire dish.

Create garlic butter mixture:

Melt butter completely then add minced garlic and all dry seasonings. Stir to combine allowing the warm butter to bloom the herbs and spices. This mixture becomes the flavor foundation of the entire dish so take your time to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Assemble in slow cooker:

Layer potatoes on the bottom of your slow cooker crock they take longer to cook than the meat. Place seared beef on top then pour the aromatic garlic butter mixture evenly over everything. Add beef broth which will create steam and prevent drying.

Slow cook to perfection:

Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 6–8 hours for the most tender results. The low and slow method breaks down the tough connective tissues in the stew meat while allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Resist the urge to peek frequently as each opening releases heat and extends cooking time.

Rest before serving:

Allow the finished dish to rest with the lid on but heat off for about 10 minutes. This pause lets the meat fibers relax and reabsorb juices resulting in more tender bites and allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when you lift the lid after hours of cooking. The aroma that escapes is intoxicating with the garlic and herbs permeating every corner of your home. It reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's house where slow-cooked meals were always the centerpiece of family gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This beef and potato dish actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it up to two days ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. To reheat microwave individual portions or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture. The dish freezes exceptionally well too simply portion into freezer containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Vegetable Additions

While delicious as written this recipe welcomes additional vegetables. Consider adding baby carrots mushrooms or pearl onions during the last 2 hours of cooking. For green vegetables like peas or green beans add during the final 30 minutes to maintain their color and prevent overcooking. These additions not only increase the nutritional value but also stretch the meal further making it even more economical.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these garlic butter beef bites in shallow bowls to capture all the wonderful sauce. A side of crusty bread for sopping up the buttery goodness is practically mandatory. For a complete meal add a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. If serving for guests a garnish of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that elevates the presentation.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cut of beef for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute stew meat with chuck roast, sirloin, or even ribeye cut into bite-sized pieces. The key is choosing a cut that becomes tender when slow-cooked. Leaner cuts may not be as juicy, while fattier cuts will provide more flavor.

→ Is parboiling the potatoes necessary?

Parboiling the potatoes is optional but recommended. It gives them a head start on cooking, ensuring they'll be perfectly tender when the beef is done. If you skip this step, consider cutting the potatoes into smaller pieces to help them cook more evenly.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Great additions include carrots, mushrooms, pearl onions, or green beans. Add heartier vegetables like carrots at the beginning of cooking, while quick-cooking vegetables like green beans should be added during the last 30-60 minutes.

→ Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then add all ingredients and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes with a 10-minute natural release. For potatoes that hold their shape better, you can add them after pressure cooking the beef and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

→ How can I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking time, stirring well. Alternatively, remove the lid for the final hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For vegetables, consider a simple green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or steamed broccoli to balance the richness.