Name: Irresistibly Easy High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 385 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (can substitute with olive oil); 4 cloves garlic (minced); to taste salt (for seasoning); to taste black pepper (for seasoning); 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (halved); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)

High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites - Easy Dinner Recipe!

There’s nothing quite like walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the heavenly aroma of garlic butter sizzling away. I vividly recall the day a family friend shared their secret to an irresistibly tender beef dish that transformed the way I approached weeknight dinners. Enter my High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes—a recipe that’s perfect for busy days when you crave something hearty yet simple.

With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, this delightful meal lets your slow cooker work its magic, melding rich flavors that will impress your family or guests. Are you ready to ditch the drive-thru and delight in a comforting, homemade dinner? Packed with protein and customizable to suit your taste, these beef bites are not just food; they’re an experience that warms the heart and fills the belly. Join me as we dive into this easy dinner recipe that promises satisfaction with every bite!

Why You’ll Love High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites?

Simplicity at its finest: Just 15 minutes of prep, and then let your slow cooker do the work!
Flavor explosion: The combination of garlic butter and beef creates an irresistible taste that’s simply mouthwatering.
Customizable options: Change up the beef cut or toss in your favorite veggies to make it your own!
Meal prep champion: This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights, providing delicious leftovers that warm up beautifully.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up that rich garlic butter sauce!

High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Ingredients

• Get ready to create a comforting dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Beef Bites

Beef stew meat – This cut provides a rich flavor base; ensure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Unsalted butter – Adds a luxurious touch to the garlic butter sauce; feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the beef with robust flavors; pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the richest flavor.

For the Potatoes

Baby potatoes – These are halved for a comforting texture; they absorb the garlic butter perfectly during cooking.

For the Seasoning

Onion powder – Elevates the overall taste; you can use fresh onion but be mindful of the amount.
Smoked paprika – Gives a delightful smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used if needed.
Dried thyme – For a fragrant aroma; using fresh thyme will enhance the dish even more.
Dried rosemary – Adds depth and fragrance; fresh rosemary is a great substitute if available.

For Cooking

Beef broth – Keeps the beef moist and flavorful; opt for low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
Olive oil – Used for searing the beef to seal in the flavors and juices.

This High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that’s easy to customize for your tastes!

How to Make High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Gather ingredients: Collect all your ingredients and cut the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Halve the baby potatoes for added tenderness.
Optional parboil: If you prefer even softer potatoes, parboil them for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly before cooking in the slow cooker.
Sear the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the beef pieces and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes for maximum flavor.
Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This mixture will deliver rich, savory notes to your beef and potatoes.
Layer in the slow cooker: Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the seared beef. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top to infuse the flavors.
Add broth and cook: Pour in the beef broth, giving everything a gentle stir to ensure even distribution. Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and fork-ready.
Rest and serve: Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors even more beautifully!

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes?

Elevate your hearty meal with delightful pairings that complement each flavorful bite from the slow cooker.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, soaking up the luscious garlic butter sauce beautifully.
Garlic Bread:
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread provides the perfect vehicle for mopping up every flavorful drop.
Fresh Garden Salad:
A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich beef bites. The crunch of fresh veggies enhances the meal’s texture.
Steamed Green Beans:
Tender-crisp green beans brighten the plate and offer a nutritious balance, creating a lovely contrast to the richness of the beef dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
These caramelized bites add a nutty flavor and crispy texture, elevating your dinner with an earthy side that resonates with the dish’s robust flavors.
Chardonnay or Pinot Noir:
A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir will complement the savory richness of the beef while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Chocolate Cake:
Finish on a sweet note with a light chocolate cake, its decadence perfectly balancing the savory dish you’ve just enjoyed. Your guests will be impressed!

Expert Tips for High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Choose the Right Cut: Opt for well-marbled beef cuts like chuck roast for tender bites. Lean cuts can dry out during the long cooking process.
Sear for Flavor: Always sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor, making your garlic butter beef bites irresistible.
Season Generously: Don’t forget to season the beef before cooking. This will elevate the taste, ensuring every bite of your high protein garlic butter beef is rich and flavorful.
Monitor Cooking Time: Check doneness around the 3-hour mark on high, or 6 hours on low. Every slow cooker is different, and you want tender, not overcooked beef.
Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the final taste.
Customize to Your Taste: Feeling adventurous? Add veggies or spice it up with red pepper flakes to your garlic butter beef bites; the recipe is fully customizable!

High Protein Garlic Butter Beef Bites Substitutions

Feel free to try these delightful twists to make the recipe your own!

Beef Cuts: Switch to cuts like sirloin or brisket for unique flavors; each offers a slightly different tenderness.
Potato Varieties: Use sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and added nutrients; they’ll soak up the garlic butter beautifully.
Butter Alternatives: Replace unsalted butter with ghee or a dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option while retaining richness.
Broth Choices: Opt for chicken or vegetable broth if you want a different base flavor without sacrificing moisture.
Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a garden-fresh kick instead of dried thyme and rosemary; it brightens the dish.
Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for added greens; they’ll wilt and integrate tasty nutrients.
Spice Variations: For a little heat, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to spice things up; it gives an exciting twist to every bite!

Each variation allows you to explore new flavors and ensure every meal is uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can chop the beef stew meat and halve the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the garlic butter sauce can be prepared up to 3 days before serving; simply store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, combine the seared beef, prepared potatoes, and garlic butter sauce in the slow cooker with beef broth. This way, you’ll have a comforting homemade meal with just a few finishing touches, perfect for busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the flavors stay fresh and delectable.

Freezer: If you want to make ahead, freeze the beef bites in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date for easy reference!

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Garlic Butter Beef Bites, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to keep the dish moist and flavorful. Enjoy the warmth of comfort food all over again!

High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for the beef bites?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for well-marbled cuts such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become wonderfully tender as they cook, while leaner cuts like sirloin may dry out during the long cooking process.

How do I store leftovers of the Garlic Butter Beef Bites?
For fridge storage, place leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them within 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious! If you want to make it in advance, freeze the beef bites for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy reference!

Can I freeze these Garlic Butter Beef Bites?
Yes! To freeze, let the Garlic Butter Beef Bites cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently!

What should I do if the beef bites are tough after cooking?
If your beef bites turn out tough, it may be that they need more cooking time. Each slow cooker has its own quirks; check around the 3-hour mark on high or 6 hours on low for tenderness. If they’re still not to your liking, consider cooking them for an additional hour. Remember, the longer it cooks, the more tender it will get!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free when you use certified gluten-free beef broth. However, always double-check your ingredient labels, especially for broth and seasonings. If you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to choose fresh herbs and spices that you trust!

Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your Garlic Butter Beef Bites by tossing in veggies like carrots, green beans, or bell peppers. Just cut them to similar sizes to ensure even cooking! Add them with the beef for a nutrient-filled meal that suits your taste.