Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day; that is how Southern flavors settle and sing. Cooler flavors mingle and round out overnight.

What is the best cut of beef to use?

Beef chuck or stew meat is ideal because they have connective tissue that softens with slow cooking, bringing tenderness and flavor. If you use a leaner cut, reduce cook time or watch for dryness.

Can I skip browning the beef?

You can, but browning adds depth of flavor. If you are in a hurry, toss the meat directly into the slow cooker; however, searing is a small step that rewards you handsomely.

How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?

Use baby potatoes or cut larger potatoes into sizable chunks. Add them later in the cook if you fear overcooking. Cook on low rather than high for steadier results.

Is smoked paprika necessary?

No. It adds a warm, woodsy note that feels Southern and cozy, but plain paprika or even a small pinch of cayenne will work if you prefer different flavor tones.

Easy Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes Recipe 2026

Name: Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup beef broth; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Description

A comforting slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef bites and baby potatoes coated in garlic butter and spices.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Season the beef bites with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add this mixture to the slow cooker.
Toss the potatoes with melted butter, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the potatoes to the slow cooker, placing them on top of the beef.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Stir gently to combine the beef and potatoes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving and ladle into shallow bowls.

Notes

Use real butter for a richer flavor. Choose baby potatoes with thin skins for even cooking. You can add Worcestershire sauce for extra tang.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg