Slow cooker garlic butter beef bites with potatoes is a comforting meal that warms the soul. The rich aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Tender beef melts in your mouth, complemented by fluffy potatoes that soak up all the delicious flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is both easy to prepare and satisfying to share.
Table of Contents
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Essential Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Possible Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, consider substituting beef with chicken thighs for a lighter option. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or green beans, ensuring they are cut to similar sizes and added halfway through cooking to avoid overcooking.
Tips for Achieving Tender Beef
Importance of Searing the Beef
Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is essential for locking in flavor and developing a rich crust. This simple step takes only a few minutes but significantly enhances the overall taste of your dish.
Cooking Time and Temperature
For perfectly tender beef, cook your garlic butter beef bites on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the beef becomes fork-tender.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Breakdown of Prep Time
The preparation for this meal takes just 15 minutes. You’ll spend this time searing the beef, preparing the garlic butter sauce, and halving the potatoes.
Total Cooking Duration
After prep, the total cooking time is either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, making this a perfect option for busy days.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Searing the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary.
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Pour the garlic butter sauce over the beef in the slow cooker and add the halved baby potatoes. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Cooking Process and Final Touches
Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter on top of the mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper Storage Techniques
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it to preserve its quality.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs About slow cooker garlic butter beef bites with potatoes
What are common mistakes in slow cooking beef?
Common mistakes include not searing the beef before slow cooking, using too much liquid, or cooking on high heat for too long.
How long does it take for potatoes to soften in a slow cooker?
Potatoes typically take about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to soften in a slow cooker.
How long to cook beef cubes in a slow cooker?
Beef cubes should be cooked for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
How long can you safely keep food on warm in a slow cooker?
Food can be kept on the warm setting for up to 4 hours safely.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes
- Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs
- Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Crock Pot Beef Stew
- Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Conclusion
Slow cooker garlic butter beef bites with potatoes is a hearty dish that brings comfort and joy to any dining table. For more inspiration, check out our collection on Pinterest. This recipe not only fills bellies but also warms hearts, making it a perfect addition to your family meals.
Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Equipment
- large skillet
- Slow cooker
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear seasoned beef cubes in batches until browned, then transfer to a slow cooker.
- Melt butter in the skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in thyme and rosemary, pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, and add the potatoes.
- Place remaining butter on top, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.