Slow Cooker Steak Bites are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without standing over the stove. This comforting recipe combines tender beef, buttery potatoes, and rich garlic flavor in one simple crockpot dish. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it transforms basic ingredients into a deeply savory dinner the whole family will request again and again.
Story
Slow Cooker Steak Bites quickly became one of my favorite go-to dinners during hectic weeks. Between work, activities, and everything in between, I needed a meal that felt homemade but required very little effort. That’s when this version of crockpot garlic butter steak with potatoes earned a permanent place in my kitchen rotation.
What makes Slow Cooker Steak Bites so dependable is their balance of flavor and simplicity. The beef slowly cooks until perfectly tender, while the potatoes absorb the buttery garlic juices. As a result, you get a complete “meat and potatoes” meal in one pot. Even better, it fits beautifully into easy family dinners and works especially well as one of those reliable kid friendly crockpot meals that everyone enjoys.
If you love classic comfort food, this recipe for tender beef and potatoes delivers every time.
Ingredients
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1½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-size pieces
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1½ pounds mini potatoes, washed and dried
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced into small pieces
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2 tablespoons minced garlic
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Lightly spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. If desired, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Although optional, this step builds extra depth of flavor. Wash and dry the mini potatoes thoroughly, and cut any larger ones into evenly sized 1½-inch pieces to promote uniform cooking.
Cooking Instructions
Place the beef on one side of the slow cooker and arrange the potatoes on the other side. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes. Sprinkle salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning evenly over both the meat and potatoes. Spoon minced garlic across the top, then distribute butter slices evenly so they melt gradually during cooking. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or LOW for 7–8 hours, until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and the potatoes become fork-tender. Gently stir before serving to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce.
Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting beef into uneven chunks, since that causes inconsistent cooking. Do not lift the lid frequently because heat escapes quickly and slows cooking time. Additionally, avoid overcooking on high beyond the recommended time, as this may cause the beef to tighten instead of remaining tender.
Pro Tips for Better Flavor
For even richer flavor, add fresh rosemary or thyme during the final hour. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan over the finished dish for a savory boost. If you prefer a hint of heat, stir in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. Furthermore, allow the Slow Cooker Steak Bites to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the juices settle evenly.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
Serve Slow Cooker Steak Bites straight from the crockpot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair them with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For heartier appetites, crusty bread works perfectly for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.

How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portioned servings for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave and add a splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Steak Bites offer a comforting, dependable dinner that delivers bold garlic butter flavor with almost no effort. Because the slow cooker does the work, you gain time while still serving a satisfying meal. Once you try this crockpot garlic butter steak recipe, it will quickly become part of your regular dinner rotation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this on low instead of high?
Yes. Cooking on low for 7–8 hours produces very tender beef and evenly cooked potatoes.
Do I need to brown the beef first?
No. Browning adds additional flavor, but you can skip this step if you need a quicker prep time.
Can I substitute another protein?
Yes. Boneless chicken thighs or turkey chunks work well. However, adjust the cooking time slightly since poultry cooks faster than beef.
Print
Slow Cooker Steak Bites
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Steak Bites with garlic butter and tender potatoes create a hearty, comforting one-pot dinner perfect for busy family nights.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1½ pounds mini potatoes, washed and dried
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Optional: Sear beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Place beef on one side of the slow cooker and potatoes on the other side.
- Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning evenly over meat and potatoes.
- Add minced garlic evenly across the top.
- Place butter slices over everything.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or LOW for 7–8 hours until beef is tender and potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Cut beef into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent heat.
- Add vegetables like carrots or green beans during the last 90 minutes.
- Let the dish rest 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 620
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 38
- Cholesterol: 115