Name: Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes: A Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-482571H47M27S
Total time: PT-482571H47M27S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Beef bites (1.5 lbs / 680g): The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces 🥩; Baby potatoes (1 lb / 450g, halved): Creamy and tender base 🥔; Unsalted butter (4 tbsp / 60g, melted): Adds richness 🧈; Garlic cloves (4, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor 🧄; Beef broth (½ cup / 120ml): Enhances the savory depth 🍲; Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the beef 🫒; Seasonings: 1 tsp each of paprika, onion powder, and dried parsley 🌿; Salt and pepper: To taste 🧂; Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped 🌱

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If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying meal that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort, look no further than Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked beef bites with buttery potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any day of the week. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves a hearty, delicious meal, this recipe is for you. Let’s explore the steps to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this flavorful dish:

Beef bites: 1.5 lbs (680g), cut into bite-sized pieces
Baby potatoes: 1 lb (450g), halved
Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (60g), melted
Garlic cloves: 4, minced
Beef broth: ½ cup (120ml)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, and dried parsley
Salt and pepper: To taste
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef bites generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned. This step locks in flavor and creates a caramelized crust.

2. Prep the Potatoes

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Layer the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the seared beef bites on top of the potatoes.
Pour beef broth and melted butter mixed with minced garlic over the beef and potatoes.

4. Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth beef and perfectly tender potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Why Slow Cooking Works

The slow cooker is a game-changer for tough cuts of meat. Cooking low and slow breaks down connective tissues, resulting in incredibly tender beef bites. The gentle heat also ensures the potatoes cook evenly without becoming mushy.

Tips for Best Results

Sear the beef: Don’t skip this step—it enhances the flavor.
Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds work best for their creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes with these sides for a complete meal:

Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Fluffy dinner rolls to soak up the buttery sauce

For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Proteins: Swap beef bites for chicken thighs or pork shoulder for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Options: Add carrots, mushrooms, or onions to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Herb Substitutions: Use rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a more earthy flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Sear

Searing locks in juices and adds a depth of flavor. While it’s an extra step, it’s worth the effort.

2. Overcrowding the Pot

Ensure your ingredients have enough space in the slow cooker to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

3. Using the Wrong Potatoes

Starchy potatoes like Russets can fall apart during cooking. Opt for waxy varieties like baby or red potatoes for the best texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers: Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. Add a splash of beef broth to retain moisture.

Make tender Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes with this easy recipe! Perfect for hearty, flavorful meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Beef?

Yes, but thaw the beef thoroughly before cooking for even results.

What Types of Potatoes Work Best?

Baby potatoes, Yukon Golds, or red potatoes hold their shape and have a creamy texture, making them ideal for this dish.

Is This Dish Suitable for Meal Prep?

Absolutely! It stores and reheats well, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is the epitome of comfort food—rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Try this recipe today and experience the magic of slow cooking!

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