Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes: A Delicious Comfort Food
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes has quickly become one of my go-to recipes when I crave something hearty and comforting. There’s something magical about tender beef, perfectly roasted potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce that brings it all together. This dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or even for impressing guests during special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that not only satisfies but also warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
You might wonder, what makes Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes so special? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. Just a little bit of searing followed by a slow cook transforms simple ingredients into a fantastic dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed family dinner, this hearty recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
"I made this for dinner, and my family couldn’t get enough! The beef was so tender, and the garlic butter sauce was to die for! I’ll definitely add it to our regular rotation." – A happy home cook.
Preparing Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Creating Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is a straightforward process that follows these essential steps:
- Sear the beef: Brown the beef pieces to lock in flavor.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Combine the melted butter and seasonings for an aromatic glaze.
- Slow-cook: Combine the ingredients in a slow cooker for tender beef and flavorful potatoes.
This dish is crafted for ease and satisfaction, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends rather than laboring in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this mouthwatering dish, gather the following 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)
Optional: Parboiling the baby potatoes for a few minutes can help them cook faster and yield a creamier texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare your ingredients: Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and halve the baby potatoes. You may optionally parboil the potatoes to soften them slightly.
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Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef bites and sear until browned on all sides.
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Make the garlic butter sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until combined.
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Combine in the slow cooker: In your slow cooker, place the halved baby potatoes and the seared beef. Pour the garlic butter sauce on top, and add the beef broth.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and juicy.
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Rest before serving: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is delicious served right from the slow cooker, but there are several ways to elevate the meal. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish also goes wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the beef bites and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm gently on the stove or in a microwave until heated through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Searing Tips: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps to sear the meat quickly and creates a wonderful crust.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to include other vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, for a heartier version.
Creative Twists
Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Substitute the beef with chicken for a lighter twist.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Add a hint of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, allowing for easy and quick assembly before the slow cooker does the hard work.
Can I use frozen beef?
It’s best to thaw beef stew meat before cooking to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
How do I adjust for a larger crowd?
You can double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker, ensuring that everything fits comfortably for even cooking.
With these tips, tricks, and variations, you can tailor this recipe to fit your taste and preferences. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes – a dish that’s sure to bring joy to your dining table!
Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and halve the baby potatoes. Optionally parboil the potatoes to soften them slightly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef bites and sear until browned on all sides.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- In your slow cooker, place the halved baby potatoes and the seared beef. Pour the garlic butter sauce on top, and add the beef broth.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and juicy.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
