Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a simple and hearty meal that brings together tender chunks of beef, baby potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce. The beef gets super soft as it cooks low and slow, soaking up all those buttery garlic flavors, while the potatoes become perfectly tender and flavorful.
I love how easy this dish is to throw together and then just let it cook while I focus on other things. The smell of garlic and butter filling the kitchen is one of my favorite parts—it always makes me excited for dinner. If you want an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end for a bit of color and freshness.
This recipe is great for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you have friends or family over because it’s so satisfying without much fuss. I usually serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. Plus, there is something comforting about enjoying warm beef and potatoes all in one bowl—it just feels like a big, tasty hug.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef stew meat: This cut works great for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find stew meat, chuck roast cut into cubes is a good substitute.
Baby yellow potatoes: These cook evenly and hold their shape well. You can swap for red potatoes or fingerling potatoes if you prefer.
Butter & garlic: These are the flavor heroes here. Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels better. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Beef broth and Worcestershire sauce: These add depth and richness. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce with a splash of vinegar can work.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add a warm, earthy note. Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them—just add a bit more for extra brightness.
How Can I Make the Beef Tender and Flavorful in the Slow Cooker?
Slow cooking is perfect for tough beef cuts, but a few tips help it turn out best:
- Brown the beef first: Searing the cubes in butter adds flavor and locks in juices.
- Low and slow: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours lets the beef break down without drying out.
- Don’t lift the lid: Keep the slow cooker closed during cooking to maintain temperature and moisture.
- Butter on top: Adding butter pieces on top melts down and flavors the sauce as it cooks.
These simple steps help create tender meat with a rich garlic butter sauce. I’ve found that patience and not rushing the cook time really pay off!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – It’s the main tool here, letting the beef and potatoes cook gently until tender without much fuss.
- Large skillet – Great for browning the beef and sautéing garlic and onions to boost flavor before slow cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Helpful to get the broth, sauces, and spices just right.
- Knife and cutting board – To cut the beef into bites and chop the onion and garlic easily.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring the garlic butter mixture and scraping up flavorful bits from the skillet.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef with boneless chicken thighs for a lighter, quicker-cooking option that stays juicy.
- Add baby carrots or pearl onions along with potatoes for more color and natural sweetness.
- Mix in smoked paprika or chili flakes to give the dish a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- Top with shredded Parmesan or crumbled feta before serving for a rich, tangy finish.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 pounds baby yellow potatoes, whole or halved if large
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. If you want a thicker sauce, add about 15 minutes at the end for thickening. It’s a great hands-off meal that cooks while you do other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Base:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This step adds wonderful flavor.
3. Assemble in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef, garlic, and onions to the slow cooker. Add the baby potatoes on and around the beef.
4. Add Flavors and Butter:
Mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary in a measuring cup. Pour over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Cut the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and dot evenly over the top.
5. Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and potatoes are cooked through.
6. Optional Thickening:
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the flour with a little cold water to make a slurry about 30 minutes before the end of cooking. Stir it into the slow cooker, put the lid back on, and cook on high until the sauce thickens.
7. Final Touches:
Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, bright finish.
This dish is delicious served on its own or with a simple green salad or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Beef Stew Meat in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the beef before cooking. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method. Cooking frozen beef directly in the slow cooker can result in uneven cooking.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and sauté the garlic and onions in advance, then combine everything in the slow cooker when ready to cook. This can save you time on busy days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Substitute Potatoes with Other Vegetables?
Yes! Baby carrots, parsnips, or even Brussels sprouts work well for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable’s size and texture.
