This Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes is like a warm hug in a bowl! Tender beef and creamy potatoes are cooked with yummy garlic butter for a comforting meal.
You can throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic—no fuss! It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty dinner without much work.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef stew meat: This is the star of your dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness. You can use chuck roast or brisket if stew meat isn’t available. Just cut them into 1-inch chunks.
Baby potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their creaminess. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes cut into larger pieces work too. Just ensure you adjust cooking time a bit for larger chunks!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best as it allows you to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter for similar flavor without the milk.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish! If you’re out, use garlic powder in a pinch—1/8 teaspoon equals one clove. Just sprinkle it in when mixing with the butter.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Is Tender?
Cooking beef properly is key to a tender result. The slow cooker does most of the work, but here are some tips:
- Browning the beef cubes adds a deeper flavor. While it’s optional, I highly recommend it!
- Cook on low for a longer time if possible. It allows the meat to break down and become super tender.
- Make sure there’s enough liquid (like beef broth) in the slow cooker to keep everything moist.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious beef dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to warm you up!
Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1.5 lbs (700g) baby potatoes (red or yellow), halved if large
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Flavor:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll just set it to cook! Plan for 7–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This mixture will give a lovely flavor to the beef and potatoes.
2. Browning the Beef:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and wait for it to heat up. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes. Browning is not mandatory, but it adds a fantastic flavor! If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
3. Layering in the Slow Cooker:
Now, grab your slow cooker! At the bottom, place the halved baby potatoes and sliced onions. Sprinkle them generously with salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary to add flavor.
4. Adding the Beef:
Gently place the browned beef on top of the potatoes and onions in the slow cooker. Don’t worry about making it perfect; it will all blend together beautifully as it cooks!
5. Pouring the Garlic Butter:
Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes. This is the moment you’ll start to smell the delicious aroma!
6. Adding the Broth:
Pour the beef broth around the sides of the slow cooker, ensuring you don’t pour it directly over the garlic butter. This keeps the flavor concentrated where you want it.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the potatoes soft and creamy. Perfect comfort food!
8. The Final Touch:
Once it’s done cooking, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve it hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This flavorful and comforting slow cooker meal is sure to be a hit with minimal effort!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw. Avoid cooking it directly from frozen in the slow cooker for best texture and flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Baby Potatoes?
Not a problem! You can absolutely use regular potatoes. Just cut them into larger chunks to ensure they cook evenly within the same time frame. Approximately 2 large potatoes should equal 1.5 lbs of baby potatoes.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and place it in the slow cooker insert, then refrigerate. Just take it out and cook it the next day as normal. It’s a perfect way to have dinner ready with minimal effort!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry after reheating!
