Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is the kind of comforting, one-pot meal that checks all the boxes: tender beef, buttery potatoes, rich garlic flavor, and set-it-and-forget-it ease. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how this meal delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s also a great way to use stew meat, one of the most economical cuts of beef that transforms beautifully when cooked low and slow.

Want to make sure you’re choosing the right cut? Learn more about the best cuts of beef for stew to ensure your beef turns out fall-apart tender every time.

In addition to the beef, what makes this dish truly irresistible is the generous use of real butter. Besides its undeniable flavor-enhancing qualities, butter is also rich in fat-soluble vitamins. Discover the health benefits of real butter and feel confident about using it as a key ingredient in this savory meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an important role in this flavor-packed recipe:

2 pounds of beef stew meat – Tough cuts like chuck or round work perfectly
1.5 pounds of baby Yukon gold potatoes – No peeling required
1 stick of unsalted butter – Adds depth and richness
5 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh is best, but pre-minced works too
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Fresh rosemary or thyme for a herby twist

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes with ease:

Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray or use a liner for easier cleanup.
Layer the beef and potatoes on separate halves of the slow cooker—do not mix.
Season generously by sprinkling all seasonings and garlic evenly over the beef and potatoes.
Top with pads of butter placed across the surface for even melting.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through.

Tips for Best Results

To ensure a perfect meal every time, follow these expert tips:

Keep the beef and potatoes separate while cooking to allow even heat distribution.
Always use low heat for this recipe. High heat may cause the beef to dry out or the potatoes to turn mushy.
Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme halfway through cooking for a flavor boost.
Let the dish sit covered for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to settle.

Delicious Variations

Customizing this recipe to your preferences is easy:

Switch the protein – Try chicken thighs or pork chunks if you prefer.
Swap potatoes – Red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can work well.
Add vegetables – Mushrooms, carrots, or pearl onions add more color and texture.
Use dairy alternatives – For a dairy-free option, swap butter with ghee or plant-based spreads.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Complete your meal with sides that pair wonderfully with the rich garlic and butter flavors:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the juices
Roasted carrots or asparagus – Adds a sweet, earthy contrast
Wilted kale salad – Brings freshness to balance the dish
Mashed cauliflower – A low-carb option if skipping potatoes

Storing and Reheating

Make the most of your leftovers with these storage tips:

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each round
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 480
Protein: 38g
Fat: 28g
Carbs: 22g
Fiber: 3g

This dish is also easily adaptable to low-carb or gluten-free diets by skipping the potatoes or substituting them with a keto-friendly veggie like radishes or turnips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this recipe on high?
Yes, you can cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours, but the beef may not be as tender compared to the LOW setting.

Can I use frozen beef?
It’s best to thaw the beef first to ensure even cooking, but frozen beef can work in a pinch—just add 30 minutes to the cooking time.

Should I brown the beef before slow cooking?
Browning adds extra flavor but isn’t necessary for this recipe. The garlic butter and seasonings provide plenty of richness.

How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes, and avoid cutting them too small.

What other seasonings can I try?
Paprika, crushed red pepper, Italian seasoning, or Worcestershire sauce can all be tasty additions.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes delivers everything you want in a meal: comfort, flavor, simplicity, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or prepping for the week, this recipe is as reliable as it is delicious.

Looking for more slow cooker guidance? Explore these slow cooker usage tips for beginners and take your one-pot meals to the next level.