What cut of beef is best for slow cooker beef bites?

Chuck roast or beef stew meat are ideal. Their higher fat content and connective tissue break down beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful bites.

How do you ensure tender beef bites from a slow cooker?

For optimal tenderness, cook the beef on a low setting for 6-8 hours (or 3-4 hours on high) until it's easily shredded with a fork. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.

Can I prepare these garlic butter beef bites ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the beef and seasoning the night before. Cooked beef bites store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for longer-term meal prep.

What are good side dishes for slow cooker garlic butter beef bites?

Creamy mashed potatoes (or cauliflower mash for lower carbs), roasted green beans, asparagus, or a simple garden salad perfectly complement the rich, savory flavor of the beef bites.

How can I maximize the protein content of this recipe?

Focus on a generous serving size of the beef itself. Pair the beef bites with high-protein sides like quinoa, lentil salad, or a protein-rich Greek yogurt dip (if suitable for the dish profile).

How long do slow cooker garlic butter beef bites last in the refrigerator?

Store cooked beef bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For extended storage, they can be safely frozen for up to 2-3 months.

High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites

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There’s something almost magical about a meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. As a busy parent juggling work, school runs, and the general chaos of life, my slow cooker has become my most trusted kitchen companion. It’s the secret weapon for getting a hot, satisfying, and healthy dinner on the table without the evening rush. And these High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are the perfect example of that effortless magic. They are incredibly tender, packed with flavor, and require just a few minutes of hands-on prep. Imagine coming home to the aroma of savory garlic and rich butter melding with perfectly cooked beef—it’s a weeknight game-changer.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef sirloin tips or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
8 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for getting a good sear and preventing the meat from steaming. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended): For the deepest flavor, heat a tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, sear the beef cubes on all sides until they develop a rich, brown crust. This step adds a wonderful layer of flavor to the final dish.
Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared (or raw) beef cubes to your slow cooker. Sprinkle the minced garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika over the beef.
Create the Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Pour this garlic butter sauce evenly over the beef in the slow cooker.
Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 2.5-3 hours. The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
Serve: Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir. The sauce will be thin but incredibly flavorful. Serve the beef bites hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Ingredient Swaps & Notes: Beef: Sirloin tips are ideal for tenderness, but chuck roast cut into cubes also works wonderfully and becomes very tender with slow cooking. Butter: For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality plant-based butter or olive oil. Beef Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be used in a pinch. For a richer sauce, use a low-sodium beef stock.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 160mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/high-protein-slow-cooker-garlic-butter-beef-bites/