Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Slow-cooked dishes deepen with rest. Reheat gently and add a splash of beef broth if it has stiffened.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck roast is classic for its connective tissue that melts into tenderness, but sirloin tips work well if you prefer a leaner bite. Both soak up the cowboy butter nicely.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

I recommend fresh baby potatoes. Frozen potatoes release water and can become mealy. Fresh halved Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape and soak in the sauce.

Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on while out for the day?

Yes, slow cookers are designed for unattended cooking. Still, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and place the cooker on a heat-safe surface away from flammable things.

How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

You can remove the meat and potatoes, simmer the liquid on the stovetop until reduced, or mash a few potatoes into the sauce to thicken it naturally.

Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Butter Steak & Potatoes 2026

Description

A comforting slow-cooked meal featuring tender steak and buttery potatoes, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs chuck roast or sirloin tips
1.5 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red), halved
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup beef broth

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Instructions

Mix butter, garlic, Dijon, lemon juice, parsley, chives, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to form cowboy butter.
Optional: Sear steak on both sides in a skillet for 2–3 minutes to lock in flavor.
Layer potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, place steak on top, and spoon cowboy butter over everything.
Pour beef broth around the sides, cover, and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until steak is tender.
Optional: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serve steak and potatoes on a platter, spoon sauce on top, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving.
If you seared the steak, rest it for a few minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a heartier meal, pair with slow-cooker mashed potatoes or cornbread. This dish tastes even better the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 480 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 425
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 90mg