Name: Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp dried rosemary; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ cup beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s flavorful and filling without requiring much effort. The beef comes out tender, the potatoes soak up all the buttery garlic goodness, and the herbs add a savory depth. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever I want a hearty main dish that cooks itself in the slow cooker.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 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
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

Directions

I cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and halve the baby potatoes. If I want them extra tender, I parboil the potatoes for a few minutes.
I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned.
In a small bowl, I mix melted butter, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to make the garlic butter sauce.
I place the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker, pour the garlic butter sauce over the top, and add the beef broth.
I cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
I let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6 hours of slow cooking (or 3–4 hours on high).

Variations

I sometimes swap beef stew meat for chuck roast or sirloin for a different texture.
For extra veggies, I add carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions to the slow cooker.
If I want a creamier finish, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or top with Parmesan cheese before serving.
A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a spicy kick.
For a stovetop version, I simmer everything in a Dutch oven over low heat for about 2 hours.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the beef moist. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prep.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, I like using chuck roast, brisket, or even sirloin tips—anything that cooks down tender in the slow cooker.

Do I need to sear the beef first?

I prefer searing because it adds depth of flavor, but if I’m short on time, I skip it and still get a delicious result.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, I simmer it covered in a Dutch oven for 2–2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. The next day, I just place it in the slow cooker and start cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s also great over rice to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

This garlic butter beef bites with potatoes recipe is a rich, savory, and comforting meal that never disappoints. The beef is tender, the potatoes are buttery, and the garlic-herb sauce ties it all together. Once I tried it, I knew it would be a regular on my dinner table for cozy nights and hearty family meals.