Name: Savory Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 370 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Beef stew meat (Substitution: Chuck roast or brisket for more flavor.); 1 pound Baby potatoes (Halve for even cooking to ensure tenderness.); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Melting before mixing enhances flavor distribution.); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh garlic preferred for a more vibrant taste.); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Consider mixing with garlic for a robust base flavor.); 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (Optional: Use regular paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (Fresh thyme can work wonders—just adjust the amount as needed.); 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary (Fresh could be better; adjust the quantity for intensity.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on the sodium level of your broth.); 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (Consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if desired.); 1/4 cup Beef broth (Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels.); 1 tablespoon Olive oil (Use a high smoke point oil for optimal browning.)

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The aroma of garlic wafting through the house can instantly transport me to my favorite cozy restaurant, where comfort food reigns supreme. Enter my Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes—a recipe that not only captures those familiar flavors but also transforms your kitchen into a haven of warmth and indulgence. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this slow cooker dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining family and friends. You’ll love how easily it adapts to your taste: swap cuts of beef or toss in your favorite veggies for a personalized spin. Best of all, the melt-in-your-mouth beef combined with tender potatoes drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce creates a meal that feels as good as it tastes. Curious about how to bring this hearty comfort dish to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Choose Garlic Butter Beef Bites?

Simplicity: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it a breeze for busy cooks.

Melt-in-your-Mouth Tenderness: The slow-cooking method ensures the beef bites turn out incredibly tender and flavorful, perfect for comforting weeknight dinners.

Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite cuts of beef or seasonal veggies to create a personalized dish that suits your family’s tastes. How about trying it with Hasselback Potatoes Garlic on the side?

Hearty & Satisfying: Each serving packs a punch of rich protein, with about 30-35 grams per portion, leaving everyone feeling full and satisfied.

Crowd-Pleaser: The savory garlic butter sauce will win over guests of all ages, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or family meals.

With its delightful flavors and comforting aroma, your kitchen will feel like the warmest spot in the house!

Garlic Butter Beef Bites Ingredients

For the Beef
• Beef stew meat – Provides a rich protein base, adding depth to the dish. Substitution: Chuck roast or brisket for more flavor.

For the Potatoes
• Baby potatoes – Adds a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with beef. Preparation: Halve for even cooking to ensure tenderness.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Unsalted butter – Creates the luxurious garlic butter sauce that ties everything together. Note: Melting before mixing enhances flavor distribution.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – This aromatic flavor powerhouse elevates the dish. Tip: Fresh garlic preferred for a more vibrant taste.
• Onion powder – Adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Consider mixing with garlic for a robust base flavor.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses a subtle smoky undertone. Optional: Use regular paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Dried thyme – Enhances the aromatic quality of the sauce. Fresh thyme can work wonders—just adjust the amount as needed.
• Dried rosemary – Complements the other herbs with its fragrant touch. Fresh could be better; adjust the quantity for intensity.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Tip: Adjust based on the sodium level of your broth.
• Black pepper – For overall seasoning that balances the richness. Consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if desired.

For Cooking
• Beef broth (1/4 cup) – Keeps the dish moist during the slow cooking process. Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Olive oil – Used to sear the beef, locking in those delicious juices. Tip: Use a high smoke point oil for optimal browning.

With these carefully chosen ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating the delicious Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by cutting the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Next, halve the baby potatoes, which will help them cook through and absorb the flavors of the garlic butter sauce better. Have all your ingredients measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Optional Potato Parboiling
If you desire to speed up the cooking process for your baby potatoes, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and parboil the halved potatoes for about 5 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside; this step will enhance their texture when slow-cooked with the beef.

Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef pieces in a single layer, searing them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are nicely browned. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious depth of flavor to your Garlic Butter Beef Bites.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and rosemary. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a rich garlic butter sauce that will coat both the beef and potatoes beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, layer the parboiled halved potatoes evenly across the bottom. Next, add the seared beef pieces on top of the potatoes. Pour the garlic butter sauce generously over the beef and potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated. Finally, pour in the beef broth to keep the dish moist and enhance the flavors as it cooks.

Step 6: Slow Cook the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to have the beef become fork-tender and the potatoes fully cooked—check for doneness by piercing the beef with a fork. The aroma of Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes will fill your kitchen!

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, take the slow cooker off the heat and let the dish rest for about 10 minutes with the lid on. This resting phase allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Then, serve the tender beef bites and flavorful potatoes in bowls, drizzling extra garlic butter sauce over the top for a delightful finish.

Garlic Butter Beef Bites Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Garlic Butter Beef Bites recipe your own, adding exciting twists along the way!

Chicken Thighs: Swap the beef for chicken thighs, adjusting the cook time accordingly for a lighter twist. You’ll love how the tender chicken absorbs the savory sauce!
Different Cuts of Beef: Experiment with cuts like sirloin or short ribs for varied flavors and textures. Each cut offers its own unique taste, making every meal a delightful surprise.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in seasonal vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra nutrition and color. These additions bring a lovely freshness that balances the richness of the beef and sauce.
Umami Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce to the garlic butter sauce for an umami punch. This simple addition enhances the savory depth and richness that makes each bite irresistible.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a finishing touch. Their bright flavors contrast beautifully with the richness of the garlic butter, providing a vibrant taste.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. The extra heat will complement the savory flavors beautifully, creating a dish with a delightful kick.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce. This simple addition transforms the dish into an indulgent delight, perfect for special occasions.

For a fantastically comforting side, consider pairing these bites with Hasselback Potatoes Garlic! Each variation brings a unique flair, making your meal a customized experience full of heartwarming flavors and comforting aromas.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

When planning a cozy dinner, it’s essential to create sides that perfectly enhance your main dish and bring a burst of flavors to your table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of creamy mashed potatoes complements the tender beef beautifully, soaking up that garlic butter sauce deliciously. Serve them alongside for a classic comfort food pairing.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These greens, roasted until crispy and caramelized, add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory beef bites, creating a textural contrast that’s simply delightful.
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty beef. It brightens the meal, cleansing the palate beautifully after each rich bite.
Soft Dinner Rolls: Fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up every last drop of garlic butter sauce on your plate. Their soft texture adds warmth and comfort to your dinner spread.
Savory Carrot and Pea Medley: The combination of sweet carrots and tender peas adds a pop of color and sweetness, harmonizing with the rich flavors of the beef dish. This side offers a nutritious twist, making your plate colorful and appealing.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, enhances the entire dining experience. The wine’s tannins complement the richness of the beef while providing a warming sensation perfect for cozy nights.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Choose Quality Beef: Select well-marbled cuts like chuck roast for optimal tenderness and flavor, enhancing your Garlic Butter Beef Bites.
Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the beef before slow cooking locks in juices and adds a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates the dish significantly.
Uniform Potato Cuts: Cut your baby potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking, preventing some from being undercooked while others are done.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end; a little more salt or pepper can drastically improve the overall flavor.
Resting Time Matters: Allow the dish to rest after cooking for about 10 minutes; this lets the flavors meld and improves the final texture.

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Beef Bites in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors several days later.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals until heated through.

Thawing: If frozen, let the Garlic Butter Beef Bites thaw completely in the fridge; this helps maintain the best texture and flavor upon reheating.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish on busy days! You can chop the beef and potatoes and prepare the garlic butter sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store the beef and potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepared ingredients in the slow cooker and add the beef broth—then follow the slow cooking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have a delicious dinner with minimal effort, preserving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and savory flavor!

Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend choosing well-marbled cuts of beef stew meat, such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts will break down beautifully during the slow cooking process, resulting in tender bites that melt in your mouth.

How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Beef Bites?
You can store any leftover Garlic Butter Beef Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the dish fresh and flavorful for your next meal. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to maintain optimal texture.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Beef Bites?
Definitely! To freeze, portion out the Garlic Butter Beef Bites into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove any excess air. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, using a bit of beef broth to restore some moisture if needed.

What should I do if the beef isn’t tender after cooking?
If you find that your beef is not fork-tender after the cooking time, it may need more time in the slow cooker. Simply cover and continue cooking on low for an additional hour or so. Tenderness can vary based on the cut of beef and how it was cooked, so don’t be discouraged! Just keep checking until it reaches that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I adapt this recipe for dietary concerns?
Yes, you can! This Garlic Butter Beef Bites recipe is easily customizable. To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free beef broth. For those with allergies, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter, for a similar rich flavor. Always check labels for any allergens specific to your dietary needs.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or bell peppers to enhance the nutrition and flavor of your Garlic Butter Beef Bites. Just ensure that they’re cut to a similar size as the potatoes for even cooking. Enjoy experimenting with different combos to find what your family loves best!