Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes
Description
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes is a comforting, flavorful meal made with tender bites of steak, buttery potatoes, fresh garlic, and savory herbs. Everything cooks slowly until the steak is juicy and the potatoes are perfectly tender. It’s an easy, satisfying dinner that requires minimal effort!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 4–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes–6 hours 15 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients
1½ pounds beef steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
1½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the ingredients: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and halve the baby potatoes. Pat the steak dry with paper towels.
2. Season the steak: In a bowl, combine the steak with olive oil, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Make the garlic butter: Mix the melted butter with minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using.
4. Layer the slow cooker: Place the potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned steak pieces on top.
5. Add the liquids: Pour the beef broth around the ingredients, then drizzle the garlic butter evenly over the steak and potatoes.
6. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the beef reaches a safe internal temperature. Check early to avoid overcooking the steak.
7. Finish and serve: Gently stir everything to coat the steak and potatoes in the garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Healthy Benefits
Protein-rich: Beef provides protein to support muscle maintenance.
Provides energy: Potatoes supply carbohydrates and potassium.
Flavorful ingredients: Garlic and herbs add flavor without requiring excessive salt.
Balanced meal: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad for added vegetables.
Pro Tips
Choose sirloin or another suitable steak cut for bite-sized pieces.
Cut potatoes into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Avoid adding too much liquid; the steak and potatoes release moisture as they cook.
For extra flavor, sear the steak in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side before adding it to the slow cooker.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer it until slightly reduced.
Variations
Cheesy steak and potatoes: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan over the dish just before serving.
Spicy garlic butter: Add cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
Vegetable version: Add sliced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers.
Herb butter: Use fresh rosemary and thyme for a richer herbal flavor.
Lighter option: Reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons and add extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious dish with:
Steamed green beans
Roasted broccoli
A crisp garden salad
Garlic bread
Sautéed asparagus
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating: Warm in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth, or microwave in short intervals until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen steak?
Thaw the steak completely in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker for safer, more even cooking.
Which cut of beef works best?
Sirloin is a good choice for steak bites. Chuck steak can also work, but it generally benefits from a longer cooking time.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Cut the steak and potatoes and prepare the seasonings ahead. Refrigerate the ingredients separately until ready to cook.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer and follow the recommended safe temperature for your beef cut. For whole-muscle beef steaks, the USDA recommends at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. Slow-cooked cubes may become more tender with additional cooking, depending on the cut.
Final Thought
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes is a simple, hearty dinner full of buttery garlic flavor. With tender steak, soft potatoes, and delicious herbs, it’s a comforting meal the whole family can enjoy with very little hands-on effort.
