If you’re craving a cozy, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, then Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes should be at the top of your list. This easy slow cooker recipe combines juicy, tender chunks of beef with melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, all smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or anytime you want a no-fuss dinner that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right ingredients and achieving the perfect texture, to tips for storage, meal prep, and flavor variations. You’ll also find expert answers to frequently asked questions and delicious ideas to make this dish your own.
Looking for inspiration? Try this hearty beef stew recipe that’s just as comforting.
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Why Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites Are the Perfect Family Dinner
Hearty Flavors with Minimal Effort
This meal is a classic “dump and go” crockpot recipe. All you need to do is toss everything into your slow cooker—beef, potatoes, seasonings, and garlic butter—and let time do the magic. The beef comes out fork-tender, the potatoes soak up all the savory flavors, and your kitchen will smell like comfort in a pot.
Compared to stove-top versions, this crockpot version is virtually hands-free. There’s no standing over the stove or juggling multiple pans. Just set it and forget it.
Why This Recipe Beats Traditional Skillet Beef Bites
Traditional steak bites often require high-heat searing, constant flipping, and perfect timing. With the slow cooker method, you avoid overcooking or drying out the meat. Instead, low and slow heat ensures maximum tenderness while infusing every bite with garlic butter goodness.
And let’s be real—there’s something irresistibly satisfying about lifting the lid off your slow cooker and being greeted by a bubbling, buttery, beefy aroma.
Ideal for Meal Prep and Busy Weeknights
Whether you’re feeding a family or planning your weekly meals, this recipe checks all the boxes. It reheats well, tastes even better the next day, and requires very little cleanup. Double the batch and you’ve got lunch or dinner for days.
Don’t miss our Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe for another cozy meal idea that works great for batch cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Let’s break down exactly what goes into this no-fail crockpot dinner.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef for Tenderness
The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. Here are the best options for melt-in-your-mouth beef bites:
| Cut of Beef | Pros | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sirloin Tip | Tender and lean | Affordable and flavorful |
| Ribeye | Rich and juicy | Higher fat content |
| Stew Meat | Budget-friendly | May require longer cook time |
| Chuck Roast | Well-marbled and flavorful | Cut into 1.5–2″ chunks |
| Tenderloin/Filet | Ultra tender (if splurging) | Great for special occasions |
No matter which cut you use, be sure to cube the meat evenly for consistent cooking.
Best Types of Potatoes for Slow Cooking
Potatoes add a hearty element to this dish and cook perfectly alongside the beef. Here are your best options:
- Yukon Gold – Creamy, holds shape well
- Red Potatoes – Slightly waxy, ideal texture
- Baby Potatoes – No chopping needed
- Russet Potatoes – Fluffy, but can fall apart if overcooked
Cut potatoes into about 2-inch pieces to prevent them from becoming mushy during long cooking hours.
Discover great ideas like this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin for another way to use up potatoes in your kitchen.
Seasonings That Elevate the Flavor
This recipe is all about bold, savory flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Minced Garlic – Use fresh for best flavor
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic base
- Onion Powder – Adds depth
- Steak Seasoning – Adds a peppery, herby punch
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Adjust to taste
- Unsalted Butter – Sliced and layered for richness
For an extra punch, finish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
Want to bulk it up or add a splash of color? Try these:
- Baby carrots
- Sliced mushrooms
- Chopped sweet onions
- Bell peppers (for a sweeter bite)
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce
Check out our Sauteed Zucchini Recipe for a veggie-packed side that complements these beef bites perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Crockpot Recipe
No complicated steps, no searing needed. Just a few minutes of prep for hours of hands-free cooking.
Prepping Your Ingredients the Smart Way
- Cube the beef into uniform pieces (about 2 inches).
- Wash and cut potatoes to a similar size to cook evenly.
- Mince garlic or use jarred if in a pinch.
You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge for an even faster morning dump-and-go.
Layering and Mixing for Even Cooking
- Add beef and potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle all dry seasonings over the top.
- Add minced garlic and butter slices evenly throughout.
- Toss everything together gently to coat.
For a saucier dish, consider adding 1 cup of beef broth before cooking.
Ideal Cook Times for Juicy, Tender Results
Set it and forget it:
- Low: 5–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
Cooking low and slow yields the best texture. Start checking at the earliest time mark to avoid overcooking.
Looking for another set-it-and-forget-it favorite? Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations to Make It Your Own
While the base recipe is delicious as-is, it’s also super customizable. Here’s how to make it your own without sacrificing flavor.
Making It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly
If you’re watching your carbs, skip the potatoes and substitute:
- Cauliflower florets (add in the last 2 hours)
- Turnips or rutabaga for a potato-like bite
- Zucchini chunks (add only during the last hour)
The rich garlic butter and tender beef still shine without the carbs.
You can also pair it with a side of zucchini fritters for a satisfying low-carb combo.
Adding Vegetables for a Complete One-Pot Meal
Toss in any of the following to boost nutrients and bulk up the meal:
- Baby carrots
- Sliced onions
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Green beans (added in the last 30–60 minutes)
Make sure any delicate veggies go in later to avoid overcooking.
How to Make a Simple Gravy from the Juices
Want to turn those drippings into a luscious garlic butter gravy? Here’s how:
- After cooking, pour the liquid into a saucepan.
- Bring it to a simmer.
- Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the sauce.
- Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
Drizzle over the beef and potatoes for restaurant-level richness.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even a simple slow cooker dish can go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these issues:
| Mistake | How to Fix It |
|---|---|
| Potatoes turn to mush | Cut them in large chunks or use baby potatoes whole |
| Beef is dry or chewy | Don’t overcook; check for doneness early |
| Sauce too thin or greasy | Add broth and thicken after cooking |
| Over-salting | Use unsalted butter and taste-test before seasoning |
Don’t miss our Garlic Butter Steak Bites for a pan-seared version that’s great for weeknights.
Storing, Reheating, and Meal Prep Suggestions
This recipe isn’t just easy to make—it’s also easy to store, reheat, and repurpose for leftovers.
How Long It Lasts in the Fridge and Freezer
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing.
Pro Tip: Freeze with the juices to lock in flavor and moisture.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying the Beef
- Microwave: Use 50% power and stir halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth.
- Oven: Cover with foil and warm at 300°F for 15–20 minutes.
Avoid high heat, which can dry out the beef.
Make-Ahead Tips and Freezing Options
Want to meal prep this? Here’s how:
- Before Cooking: Assemble all ingredients in a freezer bag. Label and freeze.
- To Cook: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then dump into the slow cooker and cook as usual.
You can also pre-cook and freeze in portions for future grab-and-go meals.
For another freezer-friendly idea, check out this creamy broccoli cheese soup that’s great for lunch meal prep.
FAQ About Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Can I Use Stew Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, stew meat is a budget-friendly choice, but it benefits from longer cook times. Cook on low for 7–8 hours to ensure it becomes tender. You can also marinate it overnight for extra flavor.
Do I Need to Sear the Beef First?
Not at all. The beauty of this crockpot recipe is that it’s truly dump-and-go. Searing can add extra depth, but it’s optional. If you’re in a rush, skip it.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
After cooking, pour off the juices and thicken with a cornstarch slurry or flour and butter roux on the stovetop. This creates a smooth, flavorful garlic butter gravy that clings to the beef and potatoes.
Can I Make This in the Instant Pot Instead?
Yes! Use the “Sauté” function to brown the beef and garlic (optional), then pressure cook on high for 20 minutes with a quick release. Add potatoes after, then sauté for 5 minutes until tender.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Making These Again and Again
Simple, Delicious, and Customizable
Whether you’re a slow cooker pro or just starting out, Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes offers a foolproof way to put a delicious, filling meal on the table. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this recipe makes dinner feel effortless—without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing and Kid-Approved
The buttery, garlicky flavor is universally loved. Kids enjoy the tender beef and soft potatoes, and adults appreciate the rich taste and time saved. Add a green salad or crusty bread, and you’ve got a full, balanced dinner.
Looking for inspiration? Try this White Chicken Chili Recipe for another comfort food staple the whole family will love.
PrintCrockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes is a flavorful, easy slow cooker recipe made with tender beef, creamy potatoes, garlic, butter, and simple seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights or hearty family dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes – 7 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Sirloin Tip Steak (or chuck roast), cubed
- 2 lbs Potatoes, cut into 2″ pieces
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (omit if using salted butter)
- 2 tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Steak Seasoning
- 1 stick Unsalted Butter, sliced
- Green Onion, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cube the steak into even 2-inch pieces and cut the potatoes into similar-sized chunks.
- Add the beef and potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle all the seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, steak seasoning) over the meat and potatoes.
- Add minced garlic and butter slices evenly over the top.
- Mix all the ingredients gently to ensure even coating.
- Cook on low for 5–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and potatoes are cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes whole to avoid them getting mushy.
- Stew meat can be used but may require a longer cooking time for tenderness.
- Add 1 cup of beef broth for a saucier dish and thicken after cooking if needed.
- Optional veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or onions can be added for variety.
- Skip potatoes for a low-carb version and substitute cauliflower or turnips.
