The first hint of garlic butter wafting through the air immediately transports me to memories of cozy family dinners. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes—a dish that’s not only a weeknight dinner winner but also a nostalgic comfort food that speaks to the soul. This amazing recipe takes minimal hands-on time, so you can focus on enjoying the evening with loved ones while it does the magic of slow cooking. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal featuring tender, flavorful beef and creamy Yukon Gold potatoes. Plus, it’s gluten-free with a simple tweak, making it accessible for everyone at your table. Are you ready to dive into a comforting dish that will fill your home with delicious aromas? Let’s get cooking!
Why Is Slow Cooking So Great?
Effortless Cooking: Simply toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. No constant monitoring required!
Rich, Flavorful Results: The slow cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite of beef and potato is packed with savory goodness.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Reheat easily and enjoy comfort anytime you crave it!
Family-Friendly Dish: This recipe delights even the pickiest eaters. Serve it on a platter with extra Garlic Butter Beef for an impressive presentation.
Versatile Ingredients: Adjust the flavors by swapping in seasonal vegetables or using Honey Butter Skillet Corn as a delicious side.
With its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your dinner table!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create the perfect Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes.
For the Beef
- Beef Chuck Roast – The heart of this dish, offering tender, rich flavor; consider brisket or sirloin tip as tasty alternatives.
For the Potatoes
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Their creamy texture pairs delightfully with the beef; baby Yukon Golds can be used unpeeled for added texture.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; feel free to increase for a more garlicky punch.
- Unsalted Butter – Creates the coveted rich garlic butter sauce; switch to plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
For Moisture & Flavor
- Beef Broth – Enhances moisture and taste; opt for gluten-free broth for a gluten-free version.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness when sprinkled on top; substitute with other fresh herbs during peak season.
To Taste
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal preference for that perfect flavor balance.
In just a few simple steps with these vital ingredients, you’ll create a comforting and memorable meal that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then carefully place the beef chuck roast in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until a rich brown crust forms, sealing in the flavors. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Grab your slow cooker and layer the bottom with the Yukon Gold potatoes, arranging them in an even layer. This base will absorb all the delicious flavors. Next, place the seared beef chuck roast on top of the potatoes, ensuring they’re covered nicely. This setup will allow the juices from the beef to infuse into the potatoes throughout the cooking process.
Step 3: Mix Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, add the minced garlic and mix well—this garlic butter sauce is key to your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes. Pour this fragrant mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, promoting a rich, garlicky flavor throughout your dish.
Step 4: Add Broth and Season
Pour the beef broth over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure not to wash away the garlic butter. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. This broth will keep the beef moist and tender as it cooks. Cover the slow cooker tightly with its lid and get ready for the slow magic to begin.
Step 5: Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, or increase the heat to high for about 4 hours and 15 minutes if you’re short on time. Your beef is done when it reaches a tender state, easily shredding apart with a fork around 200°F (93°C). You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and beef.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooking time is complete, gently shred the beef right in the slow cooker using two forks, allowing it to soak up even more of that luscious garlic butter sauce. Serve the tender beef and creamy potatoes on a large platter, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Your family will be delighted by this comforting Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes are perfect for meal planning, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and sear the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for delicious flavors to develop. Simply refrigerate the beef and sauce in airtight containers. The Yukon Gold potatoes can also be peeled and cut in advance, but be sure to refrigerate them in water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, layer the potatoes in the slow cooker, place the beef on top, pour the garlic butter sauce and broth over, and let it slow cook. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors with minimal effort—a true weeknight hero!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Options
Feel free to expand the deliciousness of your meal with these easy variations and substitutions!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Replace half of the Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
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Wine Boost: Add a splash of dry white wine to the garlic butter sauce for an extra depth of flavor, creating a more sophisticated dish.
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Pork Alternative: Swap out beef for pork shoulder. The marbling in pork will yield a tender result, making it a delightful alternative.
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Lower-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a fresh, colorful, and low-carb dish that still delivers flavor.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use plant-based butter instead of unsalted butter to create a dreamy garlic sauce that caters to dairy-free diets without sacrificing taste.
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Herb Fusion: Switch fresh parsley for other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a flavor profile that matches your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños into the slow cooker for a zesty twist.
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Serving Suggestions: Enhance your meal by serving alongside Honey Butter Skillet Corn for a touch of sweetness or even Garlic Herb Roasted veggies for a comforting side!
Feel inspired to mix and match these ideas, and create a meal that suits your family’s taste perfectly!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef
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Searing Matters: Sear the beef chuck roast well to lock in flavors. This step enhances taste and texture, making your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef even more irresistible.
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Potato Choices: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If they become too soft, consider switching to waxy potatoes next time for better holding during cooking.
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Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter. This keeps the garlic butter flavor while catering to dietary needs.
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Check Temperature: Aim for the beef’s internal temperature around 200°F (93°C) for optimum tenderness. Undercooked beef will lack the ideal shredding quality.
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Seasoning is Key: Don’t skip adjusting your salt and pepper; it vastly impacts flavor. Taste the broth before cooking to ensure it meets your preferences.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.
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Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy tracking.
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Thawing: To enjoy the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through. Add a bit of broth if needed to keep it moist.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
As the delightful aromas of tender beef envelop the room, it’s time to think about the perfect sides to elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness pairs wonderfully with garlic beef, providing a smooth contrast to the dish’s heartiness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted sprouts balances the richness, adding a crispy texture to each bite. Toss them with olive oil and sea salt for maximum flavor.
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Garlic Bread: Spread with extra garlic butter, this toasty delight encourages dipping into the savory sauce, making every bite a treat. It’s a must-have when serving this beef dish!
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Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the beef. Toss in seasonal veggies for added color and nutrition.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Their vibrant color and crunch complement the creamy potatoes, providing a wholesome green element to your plate. A sprinkle of almonds adds an extra crunch!
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Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the savory notes of the beef and creating a comforting dining experience.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: To finish on a sweet note, serve this decadent dessert that’s warm and gooey. It contrasts remarkably with the meal’s savory flavors and leaves everyone satisfied.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using a beef chuck roast for its tenderness and rich flavor. It sears beautifully and cooks to perfection in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for alternatives, brisket or sirloin tip are also excellent choices that can hold up to long cooking times.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delightful Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, I suggest reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep everything moist and delicious!
Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes?
Very! To freeze, portion the beef and potatoes into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to label them with the date. It’s safe to freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on medium heat until warmed through, adding a bit of broth if necessary to prevent drying out.
What if the potatoes become too soft during cooking?
If you find that your potatoes are turning too soft, consider using waxy potatoes next time rather than Yukon Gold potatoes. Waxy varieties tend to hold their shape better during the long cooking process. If you want to stick with Yukon Gold, you could also try cutting them into larger chunks to prevent overcooking.
Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free beef broth. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs. Enjoying comfort food shouldn’t come at the expense of any dietary restrictions, and this version will still deliver on flavor!
Can I use this recipe with other meats?
Definitely! If you want to switch things up, consider using pork shoulder as a substitute for beef. The slow cooking process will yield juicy, tender meat that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce and potatoes. You could also make it a vegetarian delight by replacing the meat entirely with hearty seasonal vegetables!
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes: Ultimate Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then carefully place the beef chuck roast in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until a rich brown crust forms, sealing in the flavors. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Grab your slow cooker and layer the bottom with the Yukon Gold potatoes, arranging them in an even layer. Place the seared beef chuck roast on top of the potatoes.
- In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and mix well. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes.
- Pour the beef broth over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover the slow cooker tightly with its lid.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, or increase the heat to high for about 4 hours and 15 minutes if you're short on time.
- Once cooking time is complete, gently shred the beef right in the slow cooker using two forks. Serve the tender beef and creamy potatoes on a large platter, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
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