crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you are going to love these crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes. This dish brings together tender, juicy chunks of beef stew meat and perfectly soft baby Yukon gold potatoes all infused with rich garlic butter and warm seasonings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—using just a handful of essential ingredients that deliver a depth of flavor, effortless prep, and a wonderful homey feel. Whether you’re feeding a family or want an impressive meal ready when you walk in the door, these crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes are an absolute winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and color in your crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes. Each one plays a role, from the buttery richness to the savory garlic and the lightly spiced seasoning that ties it all together.

• 2 pounds beef stew meat: Chosen for its ideal texture that becomes tender after slow cooking.
• 1½ pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and thin skins make them perfect for crockpot cooking.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor in addition to the fresh garlic for layering.
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt: Brings balanced seasoning to both beef and potatoes.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped: Fresh garlic for that irresistible aroma and bold taste.
• 5 tablespoons butter, cut into pads: Melts slowly to create a luscious sauce coating the beef bites and potatoes.

How to Make crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes

Step 1: Arrange Beef and Potatoes in the Crockpot

Start by placing the beef stew meat on one half of your crockpot, and the baby Yukon gold potatoes on the other half. This separation ensures that each cooks evenly and you experience perfect texture in every bite.

Step 2: Season Both Sides Evenly

Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, and seasoned salt evenly over both the beef and potatoes. This simple yet flavorful seasoning helps elevate the natural flavors resting in each ingredient.

Step 3: Toss the Beef to Coat the Seasonings

Gently toss the beef meat with the seasonings, making sure it’s fully coated but still kept separate from the potatoes. This step helps distribute the seasoning evenly, infusing each beef bite with that comforting savory profile.

Step 4: Add Fresh Garlic Over Meat and Potatoes

Scatter the chopped fresh garlic on top of the meat and potatoes. This fresh garlic will soften and release its vibrant flavor during the slow cooking process for that signature garlic butter taste.

Step 5: Top with Butter Pads

Place the butter pads evenly over the entire dish. As the butter melts, it combines with the garlic and seasonings to create a rich, luscious sauce that coats every bite.

Step 6: Cover and Cook Slowly

Put the lid on and cook your crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes on low for 6 hours. The slow cooking allows the beef to become fork-tender and the potatoes to absorb all those delicious flavors.

Step 7: Spoon Garlic Butter Sauce Over Everything

Once cooking is complete, use a spoon to drizzle the garlic butter sauce from the bottom over the beef and potatoes. This finishing touch makes every bite juicy and bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy!

Dish up your crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes hot, savoring each melt-in-your-mouth piece, perfectly complemented by buttery, garlicky potatoes. It truly feels like a warm hug on a plate.

How to Serve crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also works wonders, turning this dish into a truly indulgent delight.

Side Dishes

While the beef bites and potatoes make a complete meal on their own, a crisp simple green salad or steamed broccoli adds brightness and crunch to balance the richness. If you want something heartier, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the beef bites and potatoes over creamy mashed cauliflower or polenta for an extra luxurious texture contrast. You can also present the dish family-style in a large rustic bowl, letting everyone dig in together for a cozy dinner experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes stay flavorful and tender for up to 3 days, making for a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze it in portioned containers. It freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to 3 months without losing its rich taste or texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the sauce. Avoid high heat to preserve the tender texture of the beef and potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal for slow cooking, you can use chuck roast cut into cubes as an alternative. Just keep the cooking time similar to ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful.

Do I have to use Yukon gold potatoes?

Yukon gold potatoes work best because they hold their shape and become creamy, but baby red potatoes or fingerlings can also be used. Avoid waxy potatoes as they might become too mushy after slow cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot using the slow cook function or pressure cooking with the sauté step to brown the meat first, which adds extra flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as your seasoned salt and other ingredients don’t have gluten additives. Always check labels to be certain.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or top it with spicy chili oil before serving for a fiery kick that complements the buttery richness.

Final Thoughts

This crockpot garlic butter beef bites with potatoes recipe is one of those dishes you return to again and again because it’s easy, flavorful, and soul-satisfying. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to something warm, comforting, and effortless. I hope you give it a try soon—you’ll be amazed how such few ingredients can create such a memorable meal!

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