Name: High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489358H7M50S
Total time: PT-489358H7M50S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs stew beef or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed; 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing); 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

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These High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are juicy, tender, and bursting with rich, garlicky flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection, these beef bites are packed with protein and melt in my mouth with every bite. Tossed in a buttery herb and garlic sauce, they make an easy, satisfying meal I can prep in the morning and enjoy at dinner with zero stress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into something rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s high in protein, low-effort, and incredibly versatile—I serve it over mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or in a grain bowl when I’m keeping it clean. The slow cooker does all the work, and the garlic butter sauce turns every bite into a comforting, crave-worthy experience.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Stew beef or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper
Garlic, minced
Onion powder
Dried thyme
Paprika (optional)
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Low-sodium beef broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat

Directions

I start by seasoning the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, thyme, and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
In a hot skillet, I sear the beef in batches with a little olive oil until browned on all sides. This adds a deeper flavor, but I’ve skipped this step when short on time.
I transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add the minced garlic, a splash of beef broth, and cubed butter.
I cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and infused with the garlic butter.
I give it a gentle stir before serving, letting the sauce coat every bite.
I finish it off with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes, depending on my mood.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes 10 minutes to prep, plus 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high to cook. It’s the perfect protein-packed meal to start in the morning and forget about until dinnertime.

Variations

I sometimes swap the butter for ghee to make it paleo-friendly or dairy-free with a vegan butter alternative.
For a richer, deeper flavor, I add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce during the last hour.
When I want extra veggies, I add mushrooms or sliced onions right into the slow cooker with the beef.
I’ve also tossed the cooked bites with steamed broccoli or green beans for a full, low-carb meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of broth to keep the sauce silky. It reheats well in the microwave too—about 1 to 2 minutes per serving. These bites also freeze well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

I usually use stew meat or chuck roast, cut into small pieces. These cuts break down beautifully in the slow cooker and turn incredibly tender.

Do I have to sear the beef first?

Not at all. I do it when I have time because it adds flavor, but I’ve also just tossed everything into the slow cooker and still ended up with delicious results.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. These beef bites hold up well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for high-protein lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe keto or low-carb?

Yes, it’s already low in carbs and keto-friendly. I usually serve it with cauliflower mash or sautéed greens to keep it in line with my goals.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If I want a thicker garlic butter sauce, I mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

These High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites are rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Whether I’m looking to fuel up with a high-protein meal or just want something warm and flavorful, this recipe always delivers. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to in my weekly meal rotation.