Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes: Your New Favorite Weeknight Wonder

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Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Imagine coming home after a long, demanding day to the irresistible aroma of tender, savory beef and perfectly cooked potatoes, bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This isn’t a dream; it’s the reality you unlock with our incredible Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe. Forget the stress of last-minute dinner decisions or complicated cooking techniques. This dish is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that promises to satisfy every palate at your table.

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes strike the perfect balance between hearty satisfaction and effortless preparation quite like a slow cooker masterpiece. Our recipe elevates simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable experience. The beef chuck roast transforms into unbelievably tender bites that melt in your mouth, while the potatoes absorb all the delicious nuances of the herbs, spices, and, of course, that luscious garlic butter. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, a complete meal in one pot, and a testament to the magic of slow cooking. Get ready to add this amazing Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes to your regular meal rotation, because once you try it, there’s no going back.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a culinary novice, or simply someone who appreciates a fantastic meal without the fuss, this recipe is about to become your new kitchen hero. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a promise of warmth, comfort, and deliciousness waiting for you at the end of a busy day. Dive in and discover the unparalleled joy of effortless slow cooker meals that taste like they took hours of dedicated work.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe

Prepare to fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes dish, and for good reason! First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply out of this world. We’re talking about incredibly tender beef chuck roast that has slowly braised in a rich, aromatic broth infused with garlic, butter, and a harmonious blend of herbs like thyme and rosemary, brightened by a hint of smoked paprika. Each bite of beef is a succulent explosion of savory goodness, complemented perfectly by the tender, creamy potatoes that soak up all those glorious juices. It’s a truly comforting and deeply satisfying meal that feels gourmet, yet is unbelievably simple to achieve.

Beyond the amazing taste, the sheer convenience of this slow cooker garlic butter beef recipe is a major draw. The slow cooker does 99% of the work for you. After a few minutes of quick prep in the morning or early afternoon, you can set it and literally forget about it until dinner time. This makes it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax, knowing a delicious, home-cooked meal is being prepared without your constant supervision. No more slaving over a hot stove after a long day; just open the lid to a fragrant, ready-to-serve feast.

The versatility of this dish also makes it incredibly lovable. While it’s perfect as a stand-alone meal, the rich sauce and tender components make it easy to pair with a crisp green salad, some crusty bread for dipping, or even a side of steamed green beans. It’s also incredibly forgiving, meaning you don’t have to be a seasoned chef to achieve fantastic results. The long, slow cooking process tenderizes the beef beautifully, making it almost impossible to mess up. Plus, the minimal cleanup – just one pot! – is another huge win that adds to its appeal. This is truly a recipe that delivers on taste, convenience, and pure culinary satisfaction, making it a staple in any home that values delicious, stress-free dining.

Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Right Now

If you’ve been searching for a reliable, delicious, and incredibly easy meal that will impress your family without requiring hours in the kitchen, then this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is your answer. There are several compelling reasons why you should make this dish your next culinary adventure, starting with its unparalleled simplicity. The beauty of slow cooking lies in its hands-off approach. You invest a small amount of time upfront, and your slow cooker takes over, transforming humble ingredients into a spectacular meal while you go about your day. This translates to less active cooking time, less stress, and more freedom, a valuable commodity in today’s fast-paced world.

Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly. Boneless beef chuck roast is a forgiving and economical cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Paired with inexpensive staples like potatoes and onions, you can feed a crowd or enjoy delicious leftovers for days without breaking the bank. It’s comfort food that provides excellent value, making it a smart choice for meal planning and stretching your grocery budget. The hearty nature of these garlic butter beef bites ensures everyone feels satisfied and well-fed, truly a complete meal in one pot.

Beyond cost and convenience, the health benefits are a pleasant bonus. Beef chuck roast provides a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall satiety. Potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with vital vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of fresh garlic, onions, and dried herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. It’s a well-rounded meal that nourishes both body and soul. Don’t wait to experience the magic of this slow cooker marvel. It’s perfect for meal prepping, entertaining, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Give this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes a try, and you’ll quickly understand why it earns a permanent spot in so many recipe rotations.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Crafting these delectable Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes requires a selection of quality ingredients and a few essential kitchen tools. The beauty of this recipe lies in its use of readily available items that come together to create something truly extraordinary. Let’s break down what you’ll need to gather:

Ingredients:

  • 2.5 – 3 pounds boneless beef chuck roast: This is the star of our dish. Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because its marbling and connective tissue break down over time, resulting in incredibly tender, fall-apart beef. When purchasing, look for a piece with good marbling. Trim any excessive fat before cutting it into uniform 1.5-inch cubes. Uniformity ensures even cooking, giving you perfectly cooked beef bites every time.
  • 1.5 pounds small red or gold potatoes: These waxy potato varieties hold their shape well during long cooking times, unlike starchy russets which might disintegrate. Small potatoes can be halved, while larger ones should be quartered to ensure they cook through evenly and are bite-sized alongside the beef. They absorb the rich garlic butter sauce beautifully, becoming wonderfully flavorful.
  • 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped: The onion provides a foundational layer of aromatic sweetness and savory depth to the dish. As it cooks down in the slow cooker, it almost melts into the sauce, adding a subtle yet essential flavor. Rough chopping is sufficient as it will soften significantly.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided): Garlic is paramount in a “garlic butter” dish! Dividing the garlic ensures a double punch of flavor. Four cloves are infused into the melted butter for a rich, aromatic coating, while the remaining two cloves are added directly to the slow cooker to provide a fresh, pungent garlic kick that permeates the entire dish as it cooks.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter is the key to that luscious, rich sauce. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall saltiness of the dish. Melting it first allows it to combine easily with the garlic, creating the signature garlic butter blend that makes these beef bites and potatoes so irresistible.
  • 1 cup beef broth: This liquid provides the necessary moisture for slow cooking and forms the base of the savory sauce. Good quality beef broth will enhance the overall beefy flavor of the dish. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for adding umami and depth to beef dishes. Worcestershire sauce provides a tangy, savory, slightly sweet note that beautifully complements the beef and other seasonings, rounding out the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme offers an earthy, slightly minty, and peppery flavor that pairs wonderfully with beef and potatoes. Dried herbs are convenient for slow cooking as their flavors intensify over time.
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Rosemary delivers a distinct piney, woody aroma that is classic with beef. It adds a sophisticated, aromatic dimension to the dish. Crush it lightly between your fingers before adding to release its essential oils.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a beautiful reddish hue and a deep, smoky undertone that enhances the savory notes of the beef without being overly spicy. It’s a fantastic addition for complexity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: While fresh onion is present, a touch of onion powder amplifies the onion flavor, ensuring it permeates every component of the dish. It contributes to the savory backbone of the seasoning blend.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef and bringing all the flavors into balance. Always adjust at the end of cooking, as the sauce will reduce and flavors will concentrate.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening): If you prefer a thicker, gravy-like sauce to coat your slow cooker beef bites, cornstarch is your friend. It creates a smooth slurry that effectively thickens liquids without imparting a floury taste.
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening): Used to dissolve the cornstarch, creating a slurry. Cold water is crucial to prevent lumps when mixing cornstarch.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional): A vibrant green sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich dish, offering a lovely counterpoint to the savory flavors.

Recommended Tools or Utensils:

  • 6-quart or larger slow cooker: This is the star appliance for this recipe. A 6-quart capacity is ideal for the amount of beef and potatoes specified, ensuring everything fits comfortably and cooks evenly. Larger models will also work.
  • Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for safely trimming the beef and cutting it into uniform cubes, as well as halving or quartering the potatoes and chopping the onion. A sharp knife makes prep work much easier and safer.
  • Small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan: Used for melting the butter and infusing it with the first portion of minced garlic to create that fragrant garlic butter sauce.
  • Large mixing bowl: Perfect for seasoning the beef cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated with all the delicious spices before going into the slow cooker.
  • Medium bowl: For whisking together the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. This ensures they are well combined before pouring over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
  • Whisk or fork: Necessary for combining the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and especially for creating a smooth cornstarch slurry if you choose to thicken the sauce.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of all ingredients, ensuring consistency and optimal flavor results every time you make your slow cooker garlic butter beef bites.
  • Ladle: For serving the finished dish, ensuring you get plenty of the tender beef, potatoes, and that glorious sauce into each bowl.

Having these ingredients and tools ready will set you up for success, making the cooking process for your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes smooth and enjoyable.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Creating these incredibly tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a straightforward process, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious and foolproof meal every time. Remember, patience is a virtue when it comes to slow cooking, as the long, gentle heat transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: This is where the signature flavor begins! In a small microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 4 cloves of the minced garlic to the butter. Stir it well to combine. The warm butter will gently infuse with the garlic, releasing its aromatic oils. Set this mixture aside; it will be drizzled over everything later, ensuring that delightful garlic butter flavor permeates every component of your slow cooker beef bites and potatoes.
  2. Season the Beef: Proper seasoning is crucial for maximum flavor. Take your cubed beef chuck roast and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the beef vigorously and thoroughly. You want to ensure that every single piece of beef is evenly coated with the seasonings. This step lays the foundation for the savory depth of the dish and ensures your beef bites are bursting with flavor.
  3. Layer the Slow Cooker: Building a good foundation in your slow cooker helps with even cooking and flavor distribution. Take your roughly chopped yellow onion and spread it out in an even layer at the very bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. The onions will provide a protective layer for the potatoes and beef, preventing sticking and adding a sweet, aromatic base as they slowly cook down.
  4. Add Beef and Potatoes: Now, it’s time to add the main components. Carefully add the seasoned beef cubes over the layer of onions. Try to distribute them as evenly as possible. Next, take your halved or quartered potatoes and distribute them evenly over the beef. This layering method allows the beef to cook directly in the broth while the potatoes above it steam and absorb the flavors. This arrangement is key for perfectly tender garlic butter beef and potatoes.
  5. Combine Liquids: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of beef broth and the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Whisking ensures these liquids are fully integrated before they are added to the slow cooker. Once combined, pour this mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. This liquid will be the primary cooking medium and will transform into a rich, savory sauce.
  6. Add Garlic Butter: Remember that delicious garlic butter mixture you prepared in step 1? Now’s its time to shine! Drizzle the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Don’t be shy; ensure it coats as much of the surface as possible. For an extra burst of fresh garlic flavor, add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic directly over everything. This dual application of garlic ensures a profound and delicious garlic presence throughout your slow cooker garlic butter beef bites.
  7. Slow Cook: This is where the magic happens! Securely cover your slow cooker with its lid. Now, set your slow cooker to the desired setting. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker model and the size of your beef and potato pieces. The goal is for the beef to be incredibly tender – so tender that it easily falls apart with a fork – and for the potatoes to be completely fork-tender. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
  8. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a richer, thicker sauce to cling to your beef bites and potatoes, this step is for you. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, prepare a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until a smooth paste forms with no lumps. Pour this cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker, stirring gently but thoroughly to combine it with the liquid. Re-cover the slow cooker and continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. The sauce will become glossy and coat the back of a spoon.
  9. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, it’s always important to do a final taste test. Carefully remove a piece of beef and a potato. Allow them to cool slightly, then taste. Add additional salt or pepper if needed to perfectly balance the flavors. Remember that slow-cooked flavors can concentrate, so it’s always best to taste before adding more seasoning.
  10. Serve: Once seasoned to perfection, your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes are ready to be enjoyed! Ladle generous portions into bowls. If you have fresh chopped parsley on hand, sprinkle it over each serving for a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous finish. Serve hot and savor every tender, flavorful bite of this amazing comfort food. Enjoy the fruits of your slow cooker’s labor!

Tips and Variations for Your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

While the classic Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is perfect as is, there are many ways to customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. These tips and variations will help you elevate the dish, avoid common pitfalls, and explore new flavor profiles.

Ingredient Alternatives and Specific Versions:

  • Different Cuts of Beef: While chuck roast is highly recommended for its tenderness, you can experiment with other cuts like stew beef, beef brisket, or even beef short ribs. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces and understand that cooking times might vary slightly. These cuts will also yield fantastic results for your garlic butter beef.
  • Potato Varieties: Beyond red or gold potatoes, small Yukon golds or even quartered baking potatoes (like Russets, though they might get mushier) can work. For a lower-carb option, consider using chopped cauliflower florets or radishes, which soften and lose their peppery bite when slow-cooked. Sweet potatoes could also offer a different flavor profile.
  • Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding more vegetables. Carrots (chopped into 1-inch pieces), celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added along with the potatoes and beef. Add more delicate vegetables like frozen peas or corn in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy. This creates a more robust slow cooker beef and vegetable meal.
  • Herb and Spice Variations:
    • Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle heat to the dish.
    • Different Herbs: Feel free to swap or add other dried herbs like dried oregano or a bay leaf for extra depth. Fresh herbs, like sprigs of rosemary or thyme, can be added directly to the slow cooker for more potent flavor.
    • Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you’re a true garlic aficionado, increase the total amount of minced garlic to 8-10 cloves.
  • Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. If thickening, cornstarch is typically gluten-free, but always check the label.
  • Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the unsalted butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative or olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
  • Thicker/Thinner Sauce:
    • For a thicker sauce, ensure you make the cornstarch slurry and whisk it in thoroughly. If it’s still not thick enough, you can remove some liquid, whisk in another tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water, and return it to the slow cooker for a final 15-30 minutes of cooking.
    • For a thinner sauce, simply omit the cornstarch slurry.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often: This is perhaps the most common slow cooker mistake. Every time you lift the lid, a significant amount of heat escapes, and it can add 20-30 minutes to your cooking time. Resist the urge to peek!
  • Uniform Beef Cubes: Cutting the beef into consistent 1.5-inch cubes ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate. Uneven pieces might result in some being overcooked and dry, while others are still tough. This is crucial for tender beef bites.
  • Don’t Overfill: Most slow cookers should be filled between half and two-thirds full for optimal cooking. Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking and spillage.
  • Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning the beef directly. This step ensures the flavor penetrates the meat, rather than just relying on the sauce. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
  • “Tough” Beef: If your beef isn’t falling apart, it likely just needs more time. Slow cooker beef needs to reach a certain temperature for a sustained period for the connective tissues to break down and become tender. Don’t rush it; just give it more time on LOW.
  • Waxy Potatoes are Best: Stick to waxy potato varieties like red or gold potatoes. Starchy potatoes like Russets tend to break down and become mushy in the slow cooker over long cooking times, which isn’t ideal for holding their shape with the slow cooker garlic butter beef.
  • Freezing Leftovers: This dish freezes beautifully. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep.

By incorporating these tips and variations, you can make this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe truly your own, ensuring a perfect, comforting meal every time.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Beyond its incredible taste and ease of preparation, our Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe offers a satisfying nutritional profile, providing essential macronutrients and beneficial micronutrients. While exact values can vary based on portion size, specific brands, and any modifications you make, we can explore the general nutritional benefits of the key ingredients in this hearty dish.

General Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving):

  • Calories: A generous serving of this dish (assuming 6-8 servings from the recipe) would likely range from 450-600 calories, providing substantial energy.
  • Protein: Beef chuck roast is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving will contribute a significant amount (likely 30-40+ grams), vital for muscle growth and repair, satiety, and numerous bodily functions.
  • Fats: The beef, butter, and broth contribute to the fat content. While the recipe uses a fair amount of butter for flavor, the majority of the fat will come from the beef. A serving will likely have 25-35 grams of total fat, including both saturated and unsaturated fats. Trimming excess fat from the chuck roast can help manage this.
  • Carbohydrates: Potatoes are the primary source of carbohydrates in this dish, providing energy for your body and brain. A serving could contain 30-40 grams of complex carbohydrates, along with dietary fiber.
  • Fiber: While not exceptionally high, potatoes and onions contribute some dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

  • Boneless Beef Chuck Roast:
    • Protein Powerhouse: As mentioned, beef is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for human health.
    • Iron Rich: Red meat is a fantastic source of heme iron, which is highly bioavailable (easily absorbed by the body), crucial for oxygen transport and preventing iron-deficiency anemia.
    • B Vitamins: Beef is packed with B vitamins, including B12 (essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation), B6, niacin, and riboflavin, all vital for energy metabolism.
    • Zinc and Selenium: These minerals are crucial for immune function, cell growth, and antioxidant defense.
  • Potatoes:
    • Energy Source: Potatoes are primarily complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
    • Vitamin C: Surprising to some, potatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant crucial for immune health.
    • Potassium: An important electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions.
    • Dietary Fiber: Especially if the skin is left on (as with red and gold potatoes), they provide beneficial fiber.
  • Garlic:
    • Immune Support: Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to compounds like allicin.
    • Antioxidants: Contains various antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
    • Anti-inflammatory Properties: May help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Onions:
    • Antioxidants: Like garlic, onions contain antioxidants, including quercetin.
    • Prebiotics: They contain prebiotics, which feed beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health.
    • Flavor Enhancer: Adds natural sweetness and depth without relying on added sugars.
  • Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Smoked Paprika):
    • Antioxidant Boost: Many herbs and spices are rich in antioxidants.
    • Flavor Without Sodium: They add incredible flavor to the dish, reducing the need for excessive salt. Rosemary, in particular, has anti-inflammatory and memory-enhancing properties. Smoked paprika can also contribute to carotenoids.

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a source of balanced nutrition, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal that fits well into a healthy eating plan. Enjoy knowing you’re nourishing your body with every delicious spoonful.

FAQs: Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Can you put raw potatoes in a slow cooker with raw meat?

Yes, absolutely! It is perfectly safe and common practice to put raw potatoes directly into the slow cooker with raw meat. The long, slow cooking process ensures that both the meat and potatoes cook thoroughly and become tender simultaneously, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Do you need to brown beef before putting it in a slow cooker?

While browning beef before adding it to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of caramelized flavor and color, it is not strictly necessary for this recipe. Our Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes are designed for maximum ease, allowing you to skip this step without sacrificing tenderness or overall deliciousness. The long cooking time ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender regardless.

How long does it take for beef to get tender in a slow cooker?

For boneless beef chuck roast, it typically takes 6-8 hours on the LOW setting or 3-4 hours on the HIGH setting in a slow cooker for the beef to become incredibly tender and easily fall apart. The exact time can vary depending on your slow cooker’s efficiency and the size of your beef cubes, so always cook until the beef reaches your desired tenderness.

What is the best cut of beef for slow cooking?

For slow cooking, cuts like boneless beef chuck roast, beef brisket, and beef short ribs are highly recommended. These cuts contain connective tissues and marbling that break down beautifully over long cooking times, resulting in exceptionally tender, flavorful, and juicy beef, perfect for dishes like these garlic butter beef bites.

Can I freeze slow cooker beef and potatoes?

Yes, this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe freezes exceptionally well! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I thicken the sauce for slow cooker beef and potatoes?

To thicken the sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry by whisking 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Re-cover and continue cooking until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, coating the back of a spoon.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Comfort Meal Awaits!

There you have it – the definitive guide to creating the most comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes you’ll ever make. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with the magic of slow cooking, can yield a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen, yet requires minimal hands-on effort. From the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef to the perfectly cooked potatoes steeped in a rich, garlicky, herby sauce, every element of this meal is designed for pure satisfaction.

We’ve walked through why this dish will quickly become a beloved staple in your home: its irresistible flavor, the unparalleled convenience of a truly hands-off cooking method, and its budget-friendly and nutritious aspects. We’ve armed you with a detailed breakdown of ingredients, essential tools, step-by-step instructions with practical tips, and a range of variations to customize it to your heart’s desire. Plus, we’ve tackled common questions, ensuring you’re fully equipped to achieve slow cooker success.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to embrace the ease and deliciousness of this hearty comfort food. Imagine the joy of walking through your door after a long day to the welcoming aroma of dinner already cooked and waiting for you. This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a promise of warmth, comfort, and hassle-free dining. Give it a try tonight, and let us know what you think! Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you. For more incredible and easy recipes, visit Ovia Recipes.

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

A comforting and incredibly easy slow cooker recipe featuring incredibly tender beef bites and potatoes smothered in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 690 kcal

Equipment

  • 6-quart or larger slow cooker
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Microwave-Safe Bowl or Saucepan
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2.5 - 3 pounds boneless beef chuck roast trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 1.5 pounds small red or gold potatoes halved or quartered if larger
  • 1 large yellow onion roughly chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic minced (4 cloves for butter, 2 cloves for slow cooker)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Add 4 cloves of the minced garlic to the melted butter and stir to combine. Set aside.
  • Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the cubed beef chuck roast with the dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss well to ensure all beef pieces are evenly coated with the seasonings.
  • Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped yellow onion in an even layer at the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
  • Add Beef and Potatoes: Add the seasoned beef cubes over the layer of onions. Then, distribute the halved or quartered potatoes evenly over the beef.
  • Combine Liquids: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker.
  • Add Garlic Butter: Drizzle the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic directly over everything.
  • Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily falls apart, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
  • Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, in the last 30 minutes of cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine with the liquid. Re-cover and continue cooking until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  • Taste and Adjust: Carefully remove a piece of beef and a potato to taste for seasoning. Add additional salt or pepper if needed.
  • Serve: Ladle the slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For an even richer flavor and texture, consider searing the beef cubes in a hot skillet with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side until browned, before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds depth. Feel free to add other root vegetables like chopped carrots or parsnips along with the potatoes for more variety. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Keyword beef, crock pot, easy, family dinner, garlic butter, hearty, one-pot meal, potatoes, slow cooker, tender beef

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