Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
When it comes to soul-satisfying comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes.
This hearty, slow-cooked meal combines the richness of tender beef, the earthy bite of baby potatoes, and the luscious indulgence of a garlic butter sauce—all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker.
It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your plate with savory satisfaction.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, serving a crowd, or simply looking for a no-fuss dinner packed with flavor, this garlic butter beef recipe is your go-to solution.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
- Effortless slow cooker magic – Just sear, mix, and walk away.
- Rich, deep flavor – Garlic, butter, and herbs melt into the meat and potatoes.
- Perfect for weeknights or meal prep – Set it in the morning and come home to dinner.
- Customizable – Adapt the recipe with different meats, herbs, or veggies.
- Family-friendly – A hit with both picky eaters and gourmet palates.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s start with the key players that make this recipe a standout:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat – Cut into bite-sized chunks. Opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck for best results.
- 1 pound baby potatoes – Halved to ensure even, tender cooking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Melted, to form the base of your garlic butter sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced. This is the heart of the dish’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup beef broth – Adds moisture and flavor while cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the beef.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by trimming and cutting the beef into bite-sized chunks. Halve your baby potatoes—this helps them cook evenly and absorb all that rich garlic butter flavor.
Tip: Want ultra-tender potatoes? Parboil them for 4–5 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, making sure to brown all sides. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor tenfold.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
The smoked paprika and garlic create a savory, aromatic base that flavors every bite.
Step 4: Layer and Cook
Add the halved potatoes and browned beef to the slow cooker. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the top, then pour in the beef broth. Toss lightly to coat everything evenly.
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6–8 hours (best for fall-apart tender beef), or
- High for 3–4 hours (great for quicker meals).
Flavor Variations & Add-ins
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to customize:
Different Cuts of Beef
- Chuck roast: Budget-friendly and fall-apart tender.
- Sirloin tips: Leaner and slightly firmer.
- Brisket or short ribs: For extra richness and indulgent flavor.
Spicy Kick
Want heat? Stir in:
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- A few dashes of hot sauce
- Diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers
Add Veggies
Toss in:
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers (add in the last hour for texture)
Fresh Herb Finish
Top with fresh parsley, chives, or thyme before serving for a bright, herbaceous contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Though it’s satisfying on its own, pairing can take your meal to the next level:
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread – Perfect for mopping up the sauce.
- Green salad – A crisp contrast to the rich beef and butter.
- Steamed veggies – Broccoli or green beans work great.
Starchy Sides (if skipping potatoes)
- Cauliflower rice (for low-carb option)
- Buttered egg noodles
- Creamy polenta
- Mashed sweet potatoes
Storing & Reheating
Fridge:
Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
Microwave with a splash of broth or butter. Or, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Overview (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400–500 kcal
- Protein: ~30–35g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Carbs: 20–25g
- Sodium: 600–800mg (adjustable)
You can reduce calories by cutting butter in half or subbing with light olive oil.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay juicy. Just reduce cooking time (low: 4 hours, high: 2–2.5 hours).
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. Prep everything the night before, store in the fridge, and start the slow cooker in the morning.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No worries. Use a Dutch oven:
- Sear the beef and sauté garlic.
- Add ingredients and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5–3 hours, covered.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is the kind of dinner that brings warmth to the table. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comforting—all without needing hours of hands-on work. Just a few simple ingredients and a bit of planning yield a meal that’s rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner, a weeknight treat, or a meal-prep lunch, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Bookmark it, share it, and most of all—enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite!
