Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate, you’ve come to the right place! My Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is a cherished recipe in my home. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The tender beef bites paired with flavorful baby potatoes in a rich garlic butter sauce are simply irresistible. This dish not only fills the stomach but also creates lovely memories around the dinner table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and heartiness. You can prepare it with ease, and it’s sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just set it in the slow cooker and go about your day!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic butter and herbs makes every bite unforgettable.
• Hearty and filling: This dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger without breaking the bank.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for your Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes:

For the Beef Bites

• 1.5 pounds Beef stew meat (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil (For searing the beef.)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 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.)

For the Potatoes

• 1 pound Baby potatoes (Halved for even cooking.)
• 0.25 cup Beef broth (To keep the dish moist.)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to give it a little kick.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients first! Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and halve those baby potatoes so they cook evenly. This step sets you up for success in creating a delicious meal.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear those beef bites until they’re browned on all sides. This caramelization adds great flavor to our dish, sealing in juices that keep everything deliciously tender.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant garlic butter sauce will coat everything beautifully and elevate your dish’s overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Everything in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, place those halved baby potatoes along with the seared beef bites. Pour that luscious garlic butter sauce over everything and add beef broth as well. This mix will create an incredibly rich sauce as it cooks!

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender. Cooking slowly allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, let your Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives time for juices to settle back into that tender meat! Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite with loved ones around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

Cooking is all about little tricks that can elevate your dish! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Beef Bites turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for tender cuts like chuck or round, which become melt-in-your-mouth delicious after slow cooking. This makes a significant difference in texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the searing: Browning the beef bites before adding them to the slow cooker not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich color to your dish. Searing locks in juices, making each bite succulent.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the seasonings according to your palate. If you love garlic, add an extra clove, or if you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps blend the flavors together and makes it easier to serve. Plus, it gives you time to set the table!
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely pop of color.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

Serving this hearty dish can be as delightful as preparing it! Presenting your Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes beautifully can make mealtime even more special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds vibrant color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the garlic butter.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a touch of acidity that balances out the richness.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: These provide a crunchy texture and add a healthy green component to your meal. Simply steam them until tender-crisp for maximum freshness.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: Take comfort food to another level by pairing these beef bites with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect accompaniment. Just toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until crispy.
• Garlic bread: Serve some warm garlic bread on the side for extra indulgence. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience with your Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or for those who love to have delicious meals ready in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave on medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use other types of meat instead of beef for Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute chicken or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time as poultry cooks faster than beef.

How can I make Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes more flavorful?

Consider adding fresh herbs or spices such as fresh parsley or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra kick.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes?

Green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple salad complement this dish beautifully.

How do I know when the beef bites are tender?

The beef is ready when it can be easily shredded using a fork, typically after 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe is not only comforting and hearty but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. I can’t wait for you to experience the delightful flavors that come from this dish. Happy cooking!