Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender chunks of beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s such a simple combo, but the slow cooker does all the magic, making everything melt-in-your-mouth soft and full of flavor.
I love how easy this recipe is to throw together on a busy day. I just toss in the beef, potatoes, garlic, and butter, set it, and forget it. When dinner time comes around, the whole house smells amazing, and I feel like I’ve cooked up something special without much effort at all. It’s perfect when you want a cozy meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
My favorite way to eat this is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top and a side of steamed veggies or a simple green salad. It’s also great for leftovers because the flavors keep developing, and sometimes I warm it up and add a little extra butter to make it even richer. This dish always feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I think everyone will really enjoy it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes so tender. If you don’t have chuck, try brisket or even stew meat. Just make sure the pieces are bite-sized.
Baby potatoes: These cook evenly and stay nice and soft. You can swap with red potatoes, Yukon gold, or fingerlings. Avoid large potatoes, which take longer to cook.
Butter and garlic: Butter gives richness and garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you want a lighter option, try olive oil instead of butter. Fresh garlic always tastes best here.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and depth. You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water mixed with a beef bouillon cube if needed.
Worcestershire sauce: This adds a savory tang that really lifts the dish. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch.
How Do You Get Tender, Flavorful Beef in the Slow Cooker?
Getting beef tender without drying it out is the key to this recipe—slow cooking is perfect for that. Follow these tips:
- Cut beef into similar-sized cubes so they cook evenly.
- Coat the beef well in the garlic butter and seasonings before adding it to the slow cooker. This locks in flavor.
- Layer onions under the beef—they add moisture and flavor from the bottom up.
- Don’t overcook! Low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours usually works well. Check tenderness by poking a piece with a fork.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often, as it lets heat out and prolongs cooking time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the star of this recipe, it gently cooks beef and potatoes to tender perfection.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for tossing beef with the garlic butter and spices evenly.
- Sharp knife – for cutting beef into bite-sized pieces and slicing onions easily.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for chopping your ingredients safely.
- Measuring spoons – ensures you add just the right amount of herbs and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for boneless chicken thighs for a lighter option; they stay juicy and soak up flavors well.
- Add sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker for an earthy twist that complements garlic butter beautifully.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- Toss in chopped carrots or green beans about halfway through cooking for added color and crunch.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Vegetables:
- 1.5 lbs small baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal requires about 10-15 minutes of prep time to chop and combine ingredients, then 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the slow cooker. It’s a great hands-off recipe that fills your home with delicious aromas while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture and Beef:
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended. Toss the beef cubes in this mixture, coating them evenly to soak in all the flavors.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then add the butter-coated beef bites on top. Scatter the halved baby potatoes evenly over the beef.
3. Add Broth and Cook:
Pour the beef broth over everything. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
4. Finish and Serve:
Once done, gently stir the beef and potatoes to mix the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm, paired with steamed veggies or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps the beef cook evenly and prevents the slow cooker from staying in a danger zone temperature too long.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use sweet potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon golds. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep things moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just add the broth and cook the next day as usual.