These High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are bursting with flavor! The beef becomes tender and juicy while cooking slowly in a buttery, garlicky sauce that you’ll love.
And let’s be real, who can resist the smell of garlic in the kitchen? I usually serve mine with rice or veggies for a wholesome meal. Simple, tasty, and satisfying!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of the dish! For the best flavor and tenderness, choose cuts like chuck or round. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin, though it may need less cooking time.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Both work well for that rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can substitute for each clove. However, I suggest sticking with fresh if you can; it’s noticeably tastier!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work, too. For a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s a great way to change up the flavor!
How Do You Make Sure the Beef Is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender and flavorful beef bites lies in the slow cooking process and proper marinating. Here’s what to focus on:
- Marination: Before slow cooking, let the beef sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. Even a few hours in the fridge can help the flavors soak in.
- Temperature Control: Cooking on low for longer is the best method. This allows the beef to break down slowly, making it very tender.
- Moisture: Always add a bit of liquid, like beef broth or water, to prevent the meat from drying out during cooking.
- Resting: Once done, let the beef sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps retain juices for better flavor.
With these tips, your beef bites will turn out wonderfully tender and packed with garlic goodness! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Bites:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water (for slow cooker moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes to prep. You’ll then let it slow cook for 5-6 hours on LOW (or 3-4 hours on HIGH) until the beef is tender and flavors meld beautifully. Total time is around 6 hours including cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped rosemary if you’re using it. Mix everything well to create a delicious garlic butter marinade that smells amazing!
2. Coat the Beef:
Add the bite-sized cubes of beef to the marinade. Toss them thoroughly in the bowl until every piece is coated well. This step ensures that all your beef bites will be bursting with flavor!
3. Load Up the Slow Cooker:
Next, transfer all the marinated beef bites into your slow cooker. Pour the beef broth or water over the beef to keep it moist while it cooks. This little bit of liquid keeps the beef tender and juicy.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. Opt for LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. When the cooking time is up, you’ll have perfectly tender, garlic-infused beef bites ready to enjoy.
5. Final Touches:
Once cooked, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top and give everything a gentle stir to combine well. This adds a fresh pop of color and flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dig in! Serve your garlic butter beef bites warm. They pair beautifully with sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or even a fresh salad. Perfect for a hearty, protein-packed meal!
Enjoy these mouthwatering beef bites that are sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat works great, you can also use chuck roast or even sirloin. Just remember that if you choose a leaner cut like sirloin, adjust your cooking time as it may require less time to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar as a substitute. They will provide a similar umami flavor, though the taste will vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the garlic butter beef bites! Just cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.
