If you’re looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, this Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes recipe is exactly what you need. This one-pot wonder brings together tender chunks of beef, buttery potatoes, and a rich garlic sauce that simmers all day in your slow cooker. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your dinner table feel extra cozy.
Growing up, slow cooker meals were always a staple in my household—especially on busy weekdays. This recipe is inspired by that tradition: easy to assemble in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’re greeted with melt-in-your-mouth beef bites and golden, buttery potatoes. It’s a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for substitution)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- If you don’t have baby potatoes, Yukon gold or red potatoes cut into chunks work just as well.
- For a lighter option, you can swap butter with olive oil, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Adding mushrooms or carrots makes this dish even heartier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
- Layer the Base: Add the beef cubes and halved potatoes to the crockpot.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the beef and potatoes. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft.
- Finish & Serve: Stir well before serving and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Expert Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor: Sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelizes the edges and deepens the flavor.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a richer sauce.
- Veggie boost: Toss in mushrooms, onions, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Thicker sauce: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the beef moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While stew meat and chuck roast are ideal, you can also use brisket or short ribs for a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe without potatoes?
Absolutely. You can replace potatoes with sweet potatoes, cauliflower florets, or simply serve the beef over rice or noodles.
3. How do I keep the beef tender in the slow cooker?
The key is to cook it low and slow. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and slows down the cooking process.
4. What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad make perfect companions.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll end up with a dish that’s rich, comforting, and sure to please the whole family. Serve it with a fresh green side, and you’ve got a complete meal ready to enjoy.
