Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef is a delightful dish that elevates your dinner experience without demanding too much time or effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining rich flavors and tender meat that practically melts in your mouth. Imagine coming home to a house filled with the savory aroma of garlic and beef, ready to be served for dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe
This dish combines elements of ease and comfort, making it a favorite among home cooks. The slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, meaning you can set it up and focus on your day while it develops deep flavors. The combination of garlic, butter, and meadow-fresh herbs enhances the taste of the beef, resulting in a comforting dish that brings joy to every bite. Plus, the baby potatoes absorb the delicious sauce, making them the perfect side. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly night or as part of a family celebration, Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef is bound to earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Directions
To begin, grab a large bowl and add your beef stew meat. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, and season it with salt, black pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Gently toss the beef until every piece is well-coated with the spices and sauce. This initial step is crucial, as it builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.
Next, prepare your slow cooker by layering the halved baby potatoes at the bottom. They will act as a cozy bed for the beef, soaking up all the flavorful juices that develop during the cooking process. Drizzle half of the melted butter and olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring they are lightly coated. To take it a step further, sprinkle the minced garlic on top of the potatoes. The garlic will infuse the dish with its aromatic essence as it cooks down.
After layering the potatoes, it’s time to add the seasoned beef cubes. Place them gently on top of the potatoes, allowing their weight to settle in and create a savory layer. Drizzle the remaining melted butter and olive oil over the beef for that extra richness.
Once everything is in place, cover your slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender and easily breaks apart with a fork. This slow cooking method perfectly melds the flavors and results in a juicy, mouthwatering meal.
Once the cooking time is up, open the lid and gently stir the beef and potatoes together. This helps to mix those delectable juices and enhances the overall flavor profile. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
Serving Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef is as simple as it gets. Since this dish is a one-pot wonder, you can scoop generous portions directly from the slow cooker into individual bowls or plates. The beef, tender and coated in a buttery garlic sauce, pairs perfectly with the flavorful baby potatoes.
Optionally, you can serve this meal with a side salad for added freshness or some crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can add a nice touch. The key is to enjoy the rich flavors while keeping the presentation simple and inviting.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
To ensure your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef turns out perfectly every time, there are a few expert tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to use quality beef stew meat. Look for cuts with some marbling, as this fat will render down during cooking and contribute to the juiciness of your dish.
Consider adding extra vegetables to the slow cooker if you desire. Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can complement the beef beautifully while also boosting the nutrition of the meal. Just chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
Another tip is to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes along with your spices. Prefer more herbal notes? A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the aroma and taste.
Lastly, avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as doing so can significantly impact the cooking time and temperature. Keep it sealed for the best results!
How to Store Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
If you have any leftovers from your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef, storing them is a breeze. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature after serving. Once cooled, transfer the beef and potatoes into an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave, or stovetop for a few minutes. If the dish seems a bit dry, what you can do is add a splash of broth or water to bring back its lusciousness.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the beef and potatoes. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, and they can stay fresh for up to three months. When you wish to enjoy a comforting meal, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
Variation of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
The beauty of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef lies in its versatility. You might want to switch things up and create variations that suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the mix. The acidity of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the feta offer a delightful contrast to the rich beef.
Alternatively, you could make it more of a hearty stew by incorporating beans, like cannellini or kidney beans, which add both protein and fiber. Spice lovers can enhance the dish with a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra kick.
For those who prefer a wholesome approach, swap out baby potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower florets. Not only does this change the flavor profile, but it adds a new layer of nutrition as well.
FAQ
What is the best type of beef for slow cooking?
For slow cooking, beef stew meat is ideal because it comes from tougher cuts like chuck or round. These cuts become tender when cooked slowly, ensuring a flavorful result.
How long should I cook Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef?
You can cook it on low settings for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The key is to ensure the beef is tender before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef?
Absolutely! You can customize your recipe by adding carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How do I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef?
Allow it to cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it can last up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Can I modify the seasonings in this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the spices to your preference. Feel free to add more herbs or spicy elements to suit your taste!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes Use quality beef with some marbling.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Potatoes
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved These will absorb the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Divided for layering.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Divided for layering.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine beef stew meat and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss until well-coated.
- Layer halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Drizzle with half of the melted butter and olive oil, then sprinkle minced garlic on top.
- Place the seasoned beef cubes on top of the potatoes and drizzle with the remaining melted butter and olive oil.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Once cooking is complete, gently stir the beef and potatoes together to mix the juices.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving
- Serve directly from the slow cooker. This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese for additional flavor.
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