Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes is a fantastic meal for anyone who loves tender beef and flavorful potatoes. It’s simple to prepare and cooks beautifully while you go about your day. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs makes this dish comforting and delicious. Plus, using a slow cooker means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, oregano, basil)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 lbs baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup carrots, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and black pepper.
- (Optional) Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. You can work in batches if needed.
- Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seared beef chunks on top. If you’re using them, scatter the sliced onion and chopped carrots now.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped parsley.
- Pour the beef broth evenly over the beef and potatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over everything and gently toss to mix.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft but not mushy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. If the sauce is too thin, let it sit uncovered for 15 minutes, or mash a couple of potatoes into the broth for thickness.
- Transfer the beef and potatoes to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce over the top, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
This dish is perfect on its own or served alongside a simple salad or some crusty bread. The rich flavors and tender textures make it a satisfying main course that everyone will love.
How to Store Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
- For even more flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with the garlic, herbs, and butter before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mash a few potatoes into the broth towards the end of cooking.
- Don’t skip the searing step if you can; it adds a great depth of flavor to the meat.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like green beans or peas. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try using red wine or a splash of Worcestershire sauce in place of some of the beef broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use brisket or round roast instead of chuck roast. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What herbs can I use if I don’t have Italian herbs?
You can mix fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, and basil as alternatives.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and cook it the next day. It’s a great option for meal prep.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and black pepper.
- (Optional) Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. You can work in batches if needed.
- Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the seared beef chunks on top. If using, scatter the sliced onion and chopped carrots now.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped parsley.
- Pour the beef broth evenly over the beef and potatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over everything and gently toss to mix.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are soft but not mushy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. If the sauce is too thin, let it sit uncovered for 15 minutes, or mash a couple of potatoes into the broth for thickness.
- Transfer the beef and potatoes to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce over the top, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.