Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Ribeye with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: A Gourmet Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, nothing beats a dish like Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Ribeye with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes. Tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribeye steak slow-cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce is paired with velvety mashed potatoes enhanced with the nutty goodness of Parmesan.
This dish is easy to prepare yet fancy enough to impress guests, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a special dinner gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set-It-And-Forget-It: The slow cooker does all the work for the ribeye, while you focus on other things.
- Rich Garlic Butter Flavor: Every bite of steak is infused with buttery, garlicky goodness.
- Creamy Parmesan Potatoes: The mashed potatoes are the perfect creamy, cheesy pairing for the rich ribeye.
- Elevated Comfort Food: Feels fancy but comes together with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Ribeye with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
For the Garlic Butter Ribeye:
- 1 lb ribeye steak, cut into large chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk, more if needed
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Ribeye
- Season ribeye steak chunks generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribeye chunks on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared ribeye to a slow cooker. Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the ribeye is tender and infused with garlic butter flavor.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
- About 30 minutes before the ribeye is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Serve the Dish
- Plate a generous serving of Parmesan mashed potatoes and top with the slow-cooked ribeye.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce from the slow cooker over the meat and potatoes for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip searing the ribeye before adding it to the slow cooker. It locks in juices and adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust the Consistency: For creamier potatoes, add more milk or butter. For chunkier potatoes, mash lightly.
- Add a Kick: Sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a subtle heat.
- Herb Swap: Swap thyme and rosemary for oregano or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Variations to Try
- Vegetable Addition: Add sliced carrots or mushrooms to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir shredded cheddar or Gruyère into the mashed potatoes for extra cheesiness.
- Keto Option: Replace potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb version.
Pairing Suggestions
- Sides: Pair with roasted asparagus or a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Wine: A rich Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the dish beautifully.
- Dessert: Finish with a light chocolate mousse or a crème brûlée.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
The combination of tender ribeye, rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy Parmesan mashed potatoes creates a meal that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence. The slow cooker makes it easy to achieve perfectly cooked beef while freeing up your time for other preparations. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight or a special celebration, this dish is guaranteed to impress.