Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes

This garlic butter beef bites with potatoes recipe is one of my favorite hearty and comforting meals. The beef is seared until golden and juicy, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite irresistible. Paired with tender baby potatoes, this dish is the perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures. I love making it for a cozy weeknight dinner when I want something filling but still simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy how this recipe brings together rich beef and buttery potatoes in one skillet. The smoky paprika, garlic, and herbs add layers of flavor that make it taste like a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. I also like that it’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how comforting and crowd-pleasing it is.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1.5 pounds Beef stew meat Cut into bite-sized pieces
1 pound Baby potatoes Halved for even cooking
4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Melted for the garlic butter sauce
3 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor
1 teaspoon Onion powder Adds depth to the flavor
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika For a smoky flavor
0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme Enhances the aroma
0.5 teaspoon Dried rosemary Adds a fragrant touch
0.5 teaspoon Salt Or to taste
0.25 teaspoon Black pepper For seasoning
0.25 cup Beef broth To keep the dish moist
1 tablespoon Olive oil For searing the beef

Directions

1. I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. I season the beef bites with salt, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
3. I sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until browned on all sides but still tender inside, then set aside.
4. In the same skillet, I add the baby potatoes and beef broth. I cover and let them cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes.
5. Once the potatoes are ready, I add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter forms a rich sauce.
6. I return the beef bites to the skillet, tossing everything together until the meat and potatoes are coated in the garlic butter sauce.
7. I let it all cook for another 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors before serving hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 25–30 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready on the table in around 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. If I want extra vegetables, I toss in green beans, asparagus, or broccoli toward the end of cooking. I also like to finish the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh parsley for extra richness and freshness. For a spicier kick, I add a pinch of chili flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water to keep the dish moist. The microwave works as well, but stirring halfway helps everything reheat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, I sometimes use sirloin or ribeye instead of stew meat for a more tender result.

Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely, I swap in chicken breast or thighs and adjust the cooking time since chicken cooks faster.

Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?

No, I find that simmering them in broth cooks them perfectly while also adding extra flavor.

How do I make the beef more tender?

I make sure not to overcook the beef and sear it quickly over high heat to keep it juicy.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I often double it, but I sear the beef in batches so it browns properly.

What’s the best skillet to use?

I prefer a cast-iron skillet because it gives the beef and potatoes a great sear.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

I sometimes cook the beef and potatoes ahead, then reheat them with fresh garlic butter sauce before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use dairy-free butter alternatives, and the recipe still tastes delicious.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

I add the garlic toward the end, cooking it gently with the butter so it stays fragrant without turning bitter.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, I sometimes add a splash of red wine along with the broth for a deeper flavor.

Conclusion

I love making garlic butter beef bites with potatoes because it’s hearty, flavorful, and so satisfying. The tender beef and buttery potatoes make the perfect combination, while the herbs and garlic bring everything together beautifully. It’s a recipe I come back to often when I want something comforting, delicious, and easy to prepare.

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