This dish features tender beef bites cooked to perfection with tasty garlic butter and soft potatoes. It’s all made in one pot, which means less mess and more flavor!
You’ll love how easy it is to make. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic! I often sneak a piece of beef while it’s cooking—who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend beef sirloin or stew meat for this recipe. They both become tender and juicy when cooked slowly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use flank steak or even ground beef if you’re short on time, just adjust the cooking time.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are perfect here because they stay nice and firm. If you don’t have them, any small waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds work well. You can also substitute with carrots or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, consider using vegan butter as a substitute. It will still maintain the creaminess of the dish.
Spices: Dried thyme and rosemary add depth to the flavor. If fresh herbs are available, use those instead for a brighter taste. Dried oregano is a good substitute if you don’t have thyme.
What’s the Best Way to Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor?
Searing the beef is an important step to build great flavor. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches so each piece gets a good sear.
- Let the beef cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a brown crust forms before flipping.
- This caramelization brings out rich, hearty flavors that enhance your dish.
Remember to let the beef rest for a minute after searing—it keeps all those tasty juices inside! Enjoy making this easy and delicious dish!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef: 1.5 pounds beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Potatoes: 1 lb baby potatoes or small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Garlic: 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Broth: 1/2 cup beef broth
- Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you can set your slow cooker! Cook it on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Once it’s done, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to enjoy without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your beef bites with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Sear the beef in batches until they’re browned on every side, which should take about 2-3 minutes per batch. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside. This step is key for adding great flavor!
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add half of the butter and the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Arranging the Potatoes:
Now, place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will help them cook perfectly and soak up all those garlicky, buttery flavors!
4. Combining Layers:
Pour the garlic butter combination from the skillet over the potatoes. Then, add the seared beef bites on top of the potatoes in the slow cooker.
5. Adding Flavor:
Drizzle the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Dot the remaining butter over everything—this will make it extra rich and delicious.
6. Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do the work! Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
7. Finishing Touch:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty, garlicky beef bites with tender potatoes!
FAQ for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh beef for optimal texture and flavor, but if using frozen beef, make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mixture of soy sauce with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can work as a substitute. It will provide a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, you can use balsamic vinegar for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of beef broth while reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to the slow cooker along with the potatoes. Just keep in mind that softer vegetables may cook quicker, so you may want to add them halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
