Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe: 7 Easy Steps for Juicy Perfection

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe: 7 Easy Steps for Juicy Perfection

Are you looking for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that practically cooks itself? If so, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m excited to share my Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe. This delicious dish promises not just rich, savory flavors but also gives you back precious time with effortless meal prep. Whether it’s a chilly weekday evening or a busy weekend gathering, this recipe is perfect for those who adore flavorful, tender beef without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients List

For this delectable recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients, along with some suggestions for substitutions:

• 3 lbs beef chuck roast (or substitute with brisket if desired)
• 1 cup beef broth (chicken or vegetable broth can work for lighter flavor)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (use ghee for a lactose-free version)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme (fresh thyme works too—use a tablespoon)
• 2 teaspoons onion powder (add freshly diced onion for more texture)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional, adds a fresh touch)

Feel free to add other spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for a kick!

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the slow cooker
• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes (saves about 20 minutes compared to traditional stove-top methods!)

This timing allows the beef to absorb all the beautiful flavors while becoming tender and juicy—all while you go about your day!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Cut the beef chuck roast into large chunks (about 2 inches). This helps it cook evenly in the slow cooker. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

For extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional but adds a rich depth to the dish.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the seared beef (or raw beef if you skipped that step) in the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, making sure to cover the meat. Add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and onion powder, spreading it evenly over the beef.

Step 4: Set Your Slow Cooker

Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Allow the delicious aroma to fill your home!

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Once fully cooked, use two forks to shred the beef right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasonings. You can add more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs as desired.

Step 7: Plating

Serve your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Drizzle extra sauce on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 485
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 37g
• Fiber: 0g
• Vitamins: Contains Iron, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D (minimum daily values can vary)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider the following swaps:

• Replace beef broth with low-sodium broth to reduce sodium intake.
• Swap out butter for olive oil for a healthier fat option.
• Use flank steak or sirloin steak instead of chuck roast for leaner meat.
• Incorporate vegetables like carrots or celery to boost nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your meal with these serving ideas:

• Serve with roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the beef.
• Consider offering a light red wine, like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the dish.

Presentation Tips

• Use a shallow bowl or a large plate and add a garnish of parsley.
• Serve with fresh crusty bread to soak up that delectable sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the searing step: While it’s optional, searing the beef adds complex flavors that elevate the dish.
2. Overcrowding: Ensure there’s enough space for the beef to cook evenly; do not overfill the slow cooker.
3. Not adjusting seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust with additional salt and pepper to suit your preference.
4. Ignoring cooking time: Cooking steak too long will result in a dry texture. Stick to the recommended time for the best results.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerating: Cool the leftovers and store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.

Print

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Recipe is a straightforward, time-saving meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its juicy, tender beef and rich garlic butter sauce, it’s bound to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below! Have you made your own twists on this dish? Let us know!

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

It’s best to thaw the beef before cooking, but if you are in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

What can I substitute for garlic if I’m allergic?

You can use garlic-infused olive oil instead of minced garlic to potentially avoid allergy issues.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in bulk for easy meal prepping.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sear the beef in the Instant Pot first, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes.

What sides pair best with this beef dish?

Consider light options like green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the beef.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe, and happy cooking!