Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Introduction
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when slow-cooked comfort meets bold garlic butter flavor, this dish is it. These Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes remind me of cozy family dinners, where the aroma of beef and herbs filled the kitchen. Growing up in Orlando, I learned that simple, hearty meals often create the most lasting memories. This recipe brings together tender beef, buttery potatoes, and a garlic-infused sauce that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re after cheap summer dinner ideas or craving high protein slow cooker recipes, this one checks all the boxes.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
---|---|
Cook Time | 6 hours |
Total Time | 6 hours 15 minutes |
Servings | 4 |
Difficulty | Easy |
Cuisine | American |
Best Season | All year round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and flavorful beef: Slow cooking makes the beef bites fall-apart tender while soaking up the garlic butter goodness.
- Comforting potatoes: Baby potatoes absorb all the rich flavors, turning into buttery, savory bites that complement the beef perfectly.
- Simple yet impressive: With just a few ingredients, you get a hearty meal that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort.
- Versatile for occasions: Whether you need low carb high protein crockpot recipes for meal prep or cozy Sunday dinners, this recipe adapts easily.
- Budget-friendly: Using stew meat and pantry spices makes this a low budget dinner idea that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting dish featuring tender beef bites and flavorful baby potatoes in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Cut beef into bite-sized pieces and halve the baby potatoes
2. Optional: parboil potatoes for 3–4 minutes
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef until browned
4. In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper
5. Place potatoes in slow cooker, top with beef, and pour garlic butter sauce over
6. Add beef broth
7. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours
8. Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Notes
Searing the beef first adds flavor but is optional
Use golden or red baby potatoes for best texture
To thicken sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes
Customize with other veggies like carrots or mushrooms
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Ingredient Tips Table
Ingredient | Tip |
Beef stew meat | Choose marbled cuts for extra tenderness and flavor during slow cooking. |
Baby potatoes | Use golden or red potatoes for a creamier texture. Halving ensures even cooking. |
Garlic | Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor compared to pre-minced jars. |
Smoked paprika | Adds a subtle smoky depth, but regular paprika works if that’s what you have. |
Dried herbs | Thyme and rosemary balance the richness of the beef, but Italian seasoning is a good substitute. |
Beef broth | Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level in the dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Cut beef into bite-sized chunks and halve the baby potatoes for even cooking. Optional: parboil potatoes for 3–4 minutes to soften slightly.
- Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef bites until browned on all sides for added flavor.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In a bowl, whisk melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble in slow cooker: Place potatoes at the bottom, add seared beef on top, and pour garlic butter mixture over everything. Add beef broth for moisture.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until beef is fork-tender.
- Rest and serve: Let sit for 10 minutes before serving so flavors settle. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Searing beef first enhances flavor, but you can skip this step if short on time.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing, or the beef won’t brown properly.
- Adjust seasoning at the end since slow cooking can intensify flavors.
- For thicker sauce, remove lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Choose the right beef: Chuck roast or stew meat works best since slow cooking tenderizes tougher cuts.
- Balance flavors: Taste before serving and add extra salt, pepper, or butter if needed for richness.
- Avoid mushy potatoes: Parboiling slightly helps them keep shape during long cooking.
- Layer correctly: Always put potatoes on the bottom since they take longer to cook than beef.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable boost: Add carrots, mushrooms, or green beans during the last 2 hours for extra nutrition.
- Spicy twist: Mix in red pepper flakes or chipotle powder for a little heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving for a richer sauce.
- Stovetop method: Instead of slow cooking, simmer everything in a Dutch oven on low for 2 hours.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prep all ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and dump into the slow cooker the next morning. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezer meal prep, combine raw beef, potatoes, and sauce in a freezer bag, freeze flat, then thaw overnight before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these garlic butter beef bites straight from the slow cooker for a rustic, family-style meal. They pair perfectly with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a crisp green salad for balance. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese makes the dish pop visually and flavor-wise.
Pairing Ideas
This dish goes beautifully with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or iced tea. On the side, roasted veggies or buttered corn on the cob complete the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken thighs work well, though cook time may reduce slightly since chicken cooks faster.
Do I need to sear the beef first? It’s optional, but searing adds flavor and a nice crust that enhances the final dish.
Can I make this low carb? Absolutely, swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini chunks for a low carb high protein crockpot recipe.
What if my sauce is too thin? Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, stir into the slow cooker, and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
Can I use a different cooking method? Yes, this recipe adapts to stovetop or oven braising if you don’t have a slow cooker.
What cut of beef is best? Stew meat, chuck roast, or even sirloin work well since slow cooking tenderizes them.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger slow cooker and extend cooking time slightly if needed.
Nutrition Info
Serving Size | 1 plate |
Calories | 400 |
Protein | 32g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Fat | 22g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 1g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
These Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes are the kind of meal that turns an ordinary day into a cozy, comforting feast. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty dinner that’s both budget-friendly and full of flavor. Try it this week and bring a little extra comfort to your table!