Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

Ingredients

• 2½ lb (1.1 kg) beef chuck, cut into 1–1½-inch cubes

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

• 5–6 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the beef

1. Cut the beef chuck into evenly sized cubes.

2. Pat the beef dry with paper towels to help it brown.

3. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 2: Brown the beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Brown the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the skillet.

3. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Tip: Browning is optional, but it adds a richer, roasted flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the garlic butter sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.

2. Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

3. Scatter the butter cubes over the beef.

Step 4: Slow-cook

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

2. Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

3. Stir gently once near the end if convenient, but avoid lifting the lid frequently.

Cooking time varies with the size of the beef cubes and your slow cooker. For tender chuck, cook until the connective tissue softens rather than relying on time alone.

Step 5: Thicken the sauce (optional)

1. Transfer the beef to a serving dish temporarily.

2. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan, or use a slow-cooker-safe thickening method.

3. Mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth.

4. Whisk it into the hot sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes until glossy and thickened.

5. Return the beef to the sauce and toss to coat.

Step 6: Finish and serve

1. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper.

2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

3. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the beef bites and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

These beef bites pair beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Steamed rice or buttered egg noodles

• Roasted potatoes and carrots

• Green beans or steamed broccoli

• Crusty bread for soaking up the garlic butter sauce

Quick Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings.

Nutrition varies with the beef cut, trimming, butter quantity, broth, and portion size. Side dishes are not included.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Nuts: No peanuts or tree nuts are included in this recipe as written.

• Dairy: Contains butter.

• Soy or wheat: Worcestershire sauce and commercial beef broth may contain soy, wheat, or other allergens. Check the labels.

• Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and beef broth, and verify all seasoning labels.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use beef chuck for the best combination of flavor and tenderness.

• Brown the beef before slow cooking for deeper flavor.

• Use unsalted butter so you can control the final salt level.

• For a stronger garlic flavor, stir in one additional minced garlic clove during the last 20–30 minutes.

• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours in an airtight container and consume within 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly.

Final result: Tender beef cubes coated in a rich garlic-herb butter sauce—perfect for a comforting family dinner.