Start by placing the potato chunks at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a lovely base for the other ingredients and ensures they cook evenly.
Next, add the beef stew meat on top of the potatoes. Make sure the beef is spread evenly to allow for thorough cooking.
Sprinkle the entire packet of onion soup mix evenly over the meat and potatoes. This will provide great flavor throughout the dish.
Now, add the minced garlic on top. The aroma of garlic wafting up as it cooks is simply irresistible.
Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper. Be cautious with the salt at this point as the onion soup mix can be quite salty.
Evenly distribute the sliced butter over the top of the ingredients, allowing it to melt and mingle with the flavors.
Pour the beef broth over everything. This step is optional but recommended for creating a richer sauce and keeping everything moist.
Once all ingredients are in, cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Once cooked, gently stir the mixture to combine the flavors. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
