Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. These tender, flavorful bites are cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a gathering with friends, this recipe promises to deliver a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The slow cooker method ensures that the beef is incredibly tender, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. Firstly, the use of a slow cooker means that the beef bites are cooked low and slow, resulting in incredibly tender meat that melts in your mouth. The garlic butter sauce is rich and flavorful, infusing the beef with a delightful taste that’s hard to resist. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and readily available, and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions & Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces. Season with black pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary.
- Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef bites on all sides until browned. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a nice caramelized flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce and beef broth.
- Slow Cook: Place the seared beef bites in the slow cooker. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the beef, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavorful.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the beef bites to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Variations
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add carrots, onions, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for a heartier dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use chuck roast or brisket, but ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the beef bites and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before reheating.
What can I serve with garlic butter beef bites? These beef bites pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Searing: Don’t skip the searing step, as it adds depth of flavor and locks in juices.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for a longer period ensures the beef becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors.
- Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic can sometimes have a slightly different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Beef Bites are versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also make a great filling for sandwiches or wraps. For a touch of elegance, serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
