Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender beef stew meat, hearty baby potatoes, and a luscious garlic butter sauce that envelops the ingredients, creating a satisfying and rich meal. It’s an easy-to-make recipe with minimal prep and a maximum flavor payoff, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a winner for several reasons:

Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a rich and savory sauce that infuses the beef and potatoes.
Comforting: The tender beef and soft potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, providing a hearty and satisfying meal.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any complicated or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few pantry staples, and you’re ready to go.
Minimal Prep: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can relax and enjoy the process without much effort.
Versatile: You can customize this dish with different herbs or spices, depending on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

1 1/2 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
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces and halving the baby potatoes. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to enjoy when served.
Cook the Potatoes
Optional: Parboil the baby potatoes for a few minutes to soften them slightly before adding them to the slow cooker. This step helps them cook faster and ensures a creamy texture when finished.
Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef pieces until they are browned on all sides, locking in the juices and adding a nice, savory crust. Once seared, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is aromatic.
Combine Everything
Add the halved baby potatoes to the slow cooker, then place the seared beef on top. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the beef and potatoes, making sure everything is coated well. Add the beef broth to keep the dish moist while cooking.
Cook
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 soft.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Herb Variations: Try using fresh thyme or rosemary if you have them. You can also experiment with other herbs like parsley or sage for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chili powder to the garlic butter sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.
Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like carrots, onions, or bell peppers for a more hearty dish.
Slow Cooker-Free Option: You can make this recipe in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop. Simply follow the same steps but simmer on low heat until the beef is tender (about 2-3 hours).

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to ensure the sauce stays moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or sirloin, as long as they are cut into bite-sized pieces. Just ensure the beef is cooked long enough to become tender.

2. How do I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

You can cook the beef and potatoes in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop by following the same steps. Simmer on low for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure everything cooks evenly.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, include red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook it when you’re ready to eat, following the same directions.

7. How can I make this dish creamier?

You can add a little heavy cream or sour cream to the garlic butter sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

8. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

9. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

10. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, a sprinkle of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) on top before serving would add a nice, cheesy touch!

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is the ultimate comforting meal that combines savory beef, soft potatoes, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!