Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes is a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. The beef is tender and infused with rich flavors from garlic and herbs, while the potatoes are soft and buttery. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. With minimal prep, you can set it and forget it until dinner time.

Why You Will Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes

This recipe is a true family favorite for many reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with little fuss. Plus, who can resist tender beef paired with buttery potatoes? Your family will be asking for seconds!

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes

Making this dish is straightforward. You’ll start by seasoning the beef and then searing it if you’d like more flavor. Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker, pour over the flavorful broth and garlic butter sauce, then set the timer. It cooks to perfection while you go about your day.

What You Need

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)

Step-by-Step

Pat beef chunks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Optional: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef chunks for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Work in batches if needed.
Place halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add seared beef chunks on top. Scatter onion and carrots in if using.
In a small bowl, melt butter. Stir in minced garlic, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped parsley.
Pour beef broth evenly over the beef and potatoes. Drizzle garlic butter sauce over everything and gently toss to distribute.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until beef is fork-tender and potatoes are soft but not mushy.
Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. 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 beef and potatoes to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce over, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes

This dish is wonderful served on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some tasty sides. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables alongside can balance the richness. Dinner rolls or crusty bread are great for soaking up those delicious garlic butter juices. It’s a warm, cozy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and potatoes together in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Recipe Tips

Searing: While searing the beef adds flavor, you can skip it for a quicker prep.
Thickening sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simply mash a few potatoes into it for a creamier texture.
Ingredient swaps: Feel free to use other root vegetables or your favorite herbs to customize the flavor.
Leftovers: This meal tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Cooking time: Make sure to check for doneness to ensure a tender texture.

Variations & Swaps

Vegetarian option: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms and vegetable broth for a plant-based twist.
Spicy kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Herb variety: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in your slow cooker the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just take it out in the morning and start cooking when you’re ready.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will freeze well for up to three months.

How do I reheat the leftovers?
Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. You can reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

What can I use instead of beef chuck?
You can use a brisket or round roast as a substitute. They will also get tender with slow cooking.

What mistakes should I avoid?
Don’t skip seasoning the beef; it adds a lot of flavor. Also, avoid overcooking—check the beef for tenderness to prevent it from drying out.