Introduction
Transform humble beef cubes and potatoes into a sensational, melt-in-your-mouth meal with this ridiculously easy slow cooker recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Forget takeout – this is your new go-to for a comforting and delicious dinner that’s ready when you are.
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s unbelievably simple, incredibly flavorful, and entirely hands-off. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the beef to become incredibly tender and the potatoes to absorb all that delicious garlic butter goodness. Minimal cleanup is another huge bonus for busy cooks!
Key Ingredients
🥩 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
🥔 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
🧄 1/2 cup minced garlic
🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🧂 1 tbsp salt
🌿 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure the beef is evenly coated.
2️⃣ Place the potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker.
3️⃣ Arrange the seasoned beef cubes on top of the potatoes.
4️⃣ Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
5️⃣ Stir in the chopped fresh parsley during the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
6️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use a good quality beef stew meat for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd your slow cooker; if necessary, use two slow cookers.
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or two during cooking. Remove before serving.
Heat Control
The slow cooker’s low and steady heat is key to this recipe’s success. It allows the beef to slowly break down and become incredibly tender without drying out. The low heat also ensures the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the flavorful butter and garlic. High heat will cook faster but may result in slightly less tender beef and drier potatoes.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on tender beef and creamy potatoes, you can add a crunch element by serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even faster prep, use pre-minced garlic.
- Add a splash of beef broth for extra moisture if needed.
- A tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for gifting! Package individual servings in disposable foil containers. You could also heat some up and deliver it in a thermos.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Herby: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme along with the parsley.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker with the beef and potatoes.
🌟 Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
Troubleshooting
- Beef is tough: Ensure you’re using beef stew meat and cook on low for the full recommended time. More time in slow cooker will make it tender.
- Potatoes are mushy: Reduce cooking time slightly, or use firmer potatoes.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer uncovered on the stove after cooking to reduce the sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, but you may need to add a little extra cooking time.
- Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, but russet potatoes may get a bit mushy. Choose small, waxy potatoes for better results.
- Can I make this in a pressure cooker? Yes, adjust cooking time according to your pressure cooker’s instructions.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver! It’s so easy, so delicious, and perfect for busy families. We hope you love it as much as we do! Share your creations on social media using #SlowCookerBeefBites and tag us! Enjoy!
30-Minute Slow Cooker Beef Bites: Weeknight Dinner Done Right
Tender and flavorful beef bites cooked in a savory sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef bites and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
- Serve the beef bites over cooked rice and garnish with chopped parsley.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in the soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.