Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories
- Protein: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes brings a delightful combination of rich flavors and satisfying textures to the table. The succulent beef, infused with savory garlic butter and paired with tender baby potatoes, creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day!
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Creating this dish is simpler than you may think! With just a few steps and essential ingredients, you can whip up a fantastic meal that will impress your family and guests. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds Beef stew meat (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
- 1 pound Baby potatoes (Halved for even cooking.)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Melted for the garlic butter sauce.)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Adds depth to the flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (For a smoky flavor.)
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme (Enhances the aroma.)
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried rosemary (Adds a fragrant touch.)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Or to taste.)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (For seasoning.)
- 0.25 cup Beef broth (To keep the dish moist.)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil (For searing the beef.)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Gather all the ingredients and start by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces. Halve the baby potatoes to ensure they cook evenly throughout.
Step 2: Mixing
(Optional) For a softer texture, you may parboil the halved baby potatoes in boiling water for about 5 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Searing
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef bites and sear them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This process adds a delectable crust that enhances the overall flavor.
Step 4: Cooking
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper to create a delicious garlic butter sauce. In your slow cooker, combine the halved baby potatoes and the seared beef bites. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the top and add the beef broth. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart. Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving, letting those flavors settle.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Serve your Garlic Butter Beef Bites hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is also great for meal prep; consider serving it over rice or holding the sides for a heartier option!
How to Store Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the beef bites. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
- Use high-quality beef stew meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Feel free to substitute baby potatoes with other varieties, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or green beans to enrich the dish further.
- Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences; a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick!
Delicious Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as a finishing touch for an extra burst of flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving for a richer sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce to spice things up.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes! While beef stew meat is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use chuck roast cut into chunks.
- Can I cook this dish in an oven instead of a slow cooker? Absolutely! After searing the beef and mixing with the other ingredients, transfer everything to a covered, oven-safe dish and cook at 300°F for 2-3 hours until tender.
- Can I add more vegetables to this recipe? Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, or peas can be added. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
- What can I serve this dish with? Garlic Butter Beef Bites pair beautifully with warm crusty bread, rice, or simply a fresh salad.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! Store portions in individual containers for easy reheating and lunches throughout the week.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes combines hearty beef, rich flavors, and the simplicity of slow cooking to create a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a fantastic choice for any home cook looking to impress. So gather your ingredients, embrace the aromas wafting from your kitchen, and enjoy a comforting meal that your loved ones are sure to savor. Happy cooking!
