The Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a simple, hearty meal where tender chunks of beef and soft potatoes soak up all the buttery garlic flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, turning basic ingredients into a comforting dish that smells amazing while it cooks.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but doesn’t need much effort. The garlic butter melts into the meat and potatoes, making every bite rich and satisfying. Plus, using the slow cooker means I can set it in the morning and come back home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner.
My favorite way to serve this recipe is with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad to keep things fresh and light. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and filling, perfect for a quiet night in or a casual family dinner where everyone can dig in and enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This cut is great for slow cooking because it becomes tender and full of flavor. If you can’t find stew meat, chuck roast cut into cubes works well too.
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby yellow potatoes for their creamy texture. You can swap with red or fingerling potatoes. Just cut them to roughly the same size for even cooking.
Butter & Garlic: Butter gives a rich, silky taste while garlic adds a punch of flavor. For a dairy-free option, try olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and deepens the flavor. If you don’t have broth, water with a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce is a good substitute.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef and Potatoes Cook Evenly in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking beef and potatoes together can be tricky since they take different times to soften. Here’s what helps:
- Cut potatoes into smaller pieces than beef cubes so they cook quicker and become tender at the same time.
- Layer the beef and potatoes evenly so heat circulates well around them.
- Add the broth or water around the sides to avoid washing away the butter-garlic coating.
- Use the low heat setting to give time for beef to become tender without overcooking the potatoes.
Following these tips will give you beef bites that are juicy and potatoes that are soft but not mushy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – this is the star here; it cooks everything low and slow for tender beef and soft potatoes without any fuss.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the garlic butter and seasonings before pouring over the ingredients.
- Tongs or large spoon – helps you toss the beef, potatoes, and sauce gently to coat evenly.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the potatoes, onion, and cutting beef into bite-size pieces if needed.
- Measuring spoons/cups – for accuracy with spices, broth, and butter amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef stew meat with cubed pork shoulder for a sweeter, tender twist.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for an earthy boost that pairs well with garlic butter.
- Stir in chopped fresh rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a fragrant herb note.
- Mix in chopped carrots or pearl onions for extra sweetness and texture contrast.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (yellow or red), halved or quartered if large
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped into large pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total cooking time is about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in your slow cooker. Preparing the ingredients only takes about 15 minutes. This hands-off cooking means you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal ready by dinner with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything well to make a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
2. Arrange Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
Place the beef cubes in the slow cooker first. Then add the chopped onion and the baby potatoes evenly over the meat.
3. Add Garlic Butter and Broth:
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the beef, potatoes, and onions. Toss gently with tongs or a spoon to coat all the pieces well. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the slow cooker, which helps keep the garlic butter coating intact on the meat and potatoes.
4. Slow Cook Until Tender:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender and the potatoes are soft.
5. Final Touches and Serving:
Taste and adjust the seasoning if you need more salt or pepper. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish to add color and a fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, buttery garlic flavor in every bite of tender beef and perfectly cooked potatoes!
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the beef completely in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker for even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes work well and add a nice sweetness. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the beef.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Yes! You can swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
