These High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are simply irresistible! Tender beef is cooked in garlic and butter until it’s super juicy. It’s a meat lover’s dream come true!
These bites are perfect for a cozy dinner or game day snacks. I love just tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do its magic. Plus, who can resist that garlic aroma wafting through the house?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using chuck roast for its tenderness after cooking, but sirloin works well too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with flank steak or even diced chicken thighs for a different protein.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness, but you can use olive oil or ghee if you want a dairy-free option. Coconut oil also lends a unique flavor, just be mindful of the slight sweetness it brings.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder is a decent substitute (use about 1 tsp), but fresh gives the best taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work too. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of chili powder for a little kick or rosemary for a fresh note.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Bites Are Tender and Flavorful?
Tender beef bites require some attention to detail while cooking. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start with beef at room temperature – this helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t rush the slow cooker! Cooking on low for longer (5-6 hours) gives better results than high heat.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often; every time you do, heat escapes!
This technique ensures your beef retains moisture and becomes wonderfully tender. The slow cooking releases all those yummy flavors from the spices and garlic, making every bite truly delicious!
High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Bites:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast or sirloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and between 3 to 6 hours of cooking time depending on your slow cooker setting. It’s a perfect dish for busy days, as you can set it and forget it until mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely and prevents excess moisture in your slow cooker, making sure they turn out tender and flavorful.
2. Mix the Garlic Butter Seasoning:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well until you have a nice, cohesive seasoning blend.
3. Coat the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to the bowl with the seasoning. Toss them until every piece is well coated in the zesty garlic butter mixture. This is where all that flavor starts to build!
4. Arrange in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned beef cubes in the slow cooker. If possible, arrange them in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges. This keeps the beef moist during cooking.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Cook until the beef is tender and fully cooked. It should be easy to pull apart with a fork!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the beef bites and place them in a serving bowl. Drizzle some of the very flavorful cooking juices over the beef to enhance the taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the beef bites warm as a high-protein main dish or a tasty appetizer. These bites are incredibly savory and filling—perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender garlic butter beef bites, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast or sirloin works best for tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or even diced chicken thighs for a different protein option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, water works just fine! You can also use chicken broth for a lighter flavor, or vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option (though this will alter the dish’s protein content).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of beef broth or water to revive moisture if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Yes! Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them about halfway through the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
