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Transform simple steak bites and potatoes into a rich, garlicky feast with barely any effort. This slow cooker recipe creates tender, buttery meat and perfectly cooked potatoes that soak up all those amazing flavors. It's the kind of meal that makes your house smell amazing all day long.
Last time I made this, my teenage son actually texted me from school asking what smelled so good when he got home. Now it's our favorite Monday meal prep it in the morning, come home to dinner ready.
Essential Ingredients
- Quality stew meat: Look for well-marbled pieces
- Mini potatoes: They cook perfectly alongside the meat
- Real butter: Don't skimp here, it's key to the flavor
- Fresh garlic: More flavor than the jarred stuff
- Simple seasonings: Let the garlic butter shine
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Detailed Instructions
- Optional Sear:
- If time allows, brown that meat for extra flavor those crispy bits are gold.
- Smart Layering:
- Keep meat and potatoes separate in the pot for even cooking.
- Seasoning Success:
- Be generous with those seasonings they'll mellow during cooking.
- Garlic Glory:
- Spread that minced garlic evenly for consistent flavor.
- Butter Beauty:
- Layer those butter pieces strategically across the top.
I discovered by accident that searing the meat first makes the butter sauce even richer. Now when I have time, I always take those extra few minutes the depth of flavor is worth every second.
Perfect Pairings
Keep the sides simple this dish is rich enough to star on its own. A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Sometimes I'll steam some broccoli just to soak up that amazing garlic butter sauce.
Make It Your Own
Try adding mushrooms in the last hour they become divine in that buttery sauce. Sometimes I'll toss in some pearl onions with the potatoes. For herb lovers, fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs laid on top create amazing aroma.
Storage Solutions
Store leftovers in an airtight container with some of that buttery sauce. They'll keep for three days, though in my house they rarely last past lunch the next day. Reheat gently to keep the meat tender.
Quick Fix Tips
Prep everything the night before and store in the fridge just dump and go in the morning. Keep seasoned stew meat in the freezer for last-minute meals.
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Through many variations of this recipe, I've learned that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most satisfying meals. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with almost no effort. The best part? That moment when you lift the lid and the garlic butter aroma fills your kitchen it makes coming home feel like a special occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Do I need to sear the meat first?
- While searing adds flavor, it's optional. The dish works great either way.
- → What seasonings work best?
- Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning work well, but you can use your favorites.
- → Can I use regular potatoes?
- Yes, just cut regular potatoes into similar-sized pieces as mini potatoes for even cooking.
- → What sides go well with this?
- Simple sides like a salad or steamed broccoli complement the rich, buttery main dish.
- → How do I know when it's done?
- The meat should reach 145°F internal temperature and potatoes should be tender.