These garlic butter beef bites are packed with protein and flavor! Cooked slowly in a cozy slow cooker, they become tender and juicy, making every bite worth it.
Honestly, the garlic butter aroma will make your whole house smell amazing. I can’t resist sneaking a few bites before they hit the table! 😄
I love making these beef bites when I want a simple meal ready after a busy day. Just toss everything in, set it, and enjoy the deliciousness later!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This cut is great for slow cooking because it becomes tender over time. If you want a leaner option, try using sirloin or tenderloin, but they’ll need less cooking time to stay juicy.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control over the dish’s saltiness. If you prefer a healthier choice, you could substitute with olive oil or ghee for a rich flavor without the dairy.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an incredible aroma! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too, but fresh has the best flavor and intensity.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can switch it with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you want something lighter or if beef isn’t available. Just keep in mind it will change the overall flavor profile.
Worcestershire Sauce & Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free alternative, look for gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari). Both sauces add umami, so find a substitute that matches your taste.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking beef until it’s tender in a slow cooker is all about patience and timing. Here are the steps to ensure you get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Start by searing the beef cubes. This adds flavor and color. Don’t rush; let them brown nicely for better taste.
- Give the meat enough time to cook; low and slow is key. If you can, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours—this breaks down the tough fibers.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking. Each time you do, steam escapes, and it takes longer to cook.
- If you find the beef isn’t tender enough after the cooking time, allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
With these tips, your garlic butter beef bites will be tender and flavorful every time!
High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Bites:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and searing the beef, and you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s a total of about 6 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours and 15 minutes until you can enjoy these delicious beef bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Start by seasoning your beef cubes with a generous amount of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. This will help create a flavorful base.
2. Sear the Beef:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s hot, add the beef cubes in batches. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, transfer them to your slow cooker.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant—but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine the Sauces:
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful bits stuck there. This will elevate the dish even more!
5. Pour Over Beef:
Now, pour this delicious garlic butter sauce mixture over the seared beef in your slow cooker. Spread it evenly to coat all the meat.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meat should become very tender and flavorful as it cooks!
7. Taste and Adjust:
When it’s time to serve, taste the beef bites and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the beef for a fresh touch and serve hot. These garlic butter beef bites are perfect alongside steamed veggies, rice, or your favorite high-protein sides.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful, and protein-packed garlic butter beef bites slow-cooked to perfection!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is perfect for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just remember that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time for optimal tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil or ghee works well in this recipe. For a lighter alternative, try using coconut oil, which will add a subtle sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Yes! Feel free to add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers during the last 2 hours of cooking. This will allow them to soften without losing their shape or texture.
