I love how this recipe combines tender beef stew bites and crispy baby potatoes in a rich garlic-butter sauce, all cooked effortlessly in the slow cooker for a cozy, hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy dishes that practically cook themselves, and this one is perfect—I just toss everything in the crockpot, walk away, and end up with tender beef and flavorful potatoes. It’s a full meal in one pot, customizable with seasonings or extra veggies, and the garlic-butter sauce makes it deeply comforting.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb baby yellow or Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
5 Tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
2–4 Tbsp minced garlic (fresh gives the best flavor)
1 Tbsp onion powder
1 Tsp garlic powder
1 Tsp seasoned salt or salt & pepper to taste
Optional: ½ tsp paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Optional: ½ cup beef broth for extra gravy

Directions

If preferred, sear the beef quickly in a hot skillet to add color and flavor, though it’s optional.
Place the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker.
Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, seasoned salt (and optional paprika/thyme) evenly over everything.
Scatter sliced butter and minced garlic on top.
If using, pour beef broth over ingredients.
Cover and cook:
- Low for 6–8 hours
- High for 3–4 hours
Gently stir before serving, optionally garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6, depending on appetite
Prep time: ~10–15 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 hours on low (or 3–4 hours on high)
Total time: Approximately 6–8 hours 10–15 minutes

Variations

Add carrots, mushrooms, green beans, or onions for more veggies
Swap dried thyme with rosemary or oregano
For heat, add red pepper flakes
Use cauliflower or zucchini instead of potatoes for a low-carb version
Sprinkle Parmesan or cheddar before serving for a cheesy twist

Storage/reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–5 days
Freezing: Seal in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce

FAQs

How can I prevent the beef from drying out?

I always sear the beef first—it locks in juices and adds flavor. Plus, cooking on low and covering with butter helps keep it moist.

Can I use different cuts of beef?

Absolutely—I’ve used chuck roast, sirloin tip, brisket, even short ribs. Just monitor cooking time; tougher cuts may take longer.

Is it OK to use frozen beef?

Yes, but frozen meat may extend cooking time. I recommend thawing first for more even results.

What should I serve with this dish?

I often pair it with a green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic-butter sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If I want gravy, I add a bit of beef broth early on. To thicken later, I whisk together cornstarch and water and stir it in during the last hour.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes recipe is a hands-off, comforting meal that delivers rich flavor and tender textures with minimal effort. I love how easy it is to customize and the way leftovers taste even better. It’s become a staple in my recipe collection—perfect for busy days when I want a satisfying meal without the fuss.