Introduction
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes is a mouthwatering, one-pan dish that combines tender, juicy steak bites with crispy golden potatoes, all coated in a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. This dish is packed with savory goodness and is a perfect meal for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a special weekend treat, or a cozy meal for a gathering with friends and family.
The combination of perfectly seared steak bites, crispy potatoes, and the indulgent garlic butter sauce creates a balanced and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and texture that will make it a go-to recipe in your repertoire. This guide takes you through every step of the process, provides tips for success, and suggests variations to try for a personalized touch.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
- Bold, Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce elevates both the steak and potatoes, coating them in a rich and savory glaze that brings out the best flavors in each bite.
- Tender Steak Bites: The steak is cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy and cook evenly. The result is tender, perfectly seared steak that melts in your mouth.
- Crispy, Golden Potatoes: The potatoes are pan-seared to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside.
- One-Pan Meal: This dish requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pan, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without too much effort.
- Customizable and Versatile: This recipe can be customized with your favorite vegetables, spices, or seasonings, allowing you to make it your own. You can even switch up the type of steak for different textures and flavors.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2-4g
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes:
- 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or your preferred cut), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of smokiness)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Special Equipment
While making Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help streamline the process and improve results:
- Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: A wide, heavy-duty skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for this recipe. The even heat distribution ensures that both the steak and potatoes cook evenly and get that perfect sear.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the steak into bite-sized cubes and halving or quartering the potatoes.
- Spatula or Tongs: A spatula or tongs will help you flip and stir the steak and potatoes while cooking, ensuring even browning and preventing sticking.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements for seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic are key to balancing the flavors. Measuring spoons and cups help ensure consistency.
- Small Bowl for Garnish: A small bowl is useful for mixing or setting aside ingredients like fresh herbs or grated cheese before garnishing the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Halve or quarter them depending on their size, making sure they are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Season both the potatoes and steak with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the halved or quartered potatoes to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes without stirring to allow the bottoms to crisp up. Once they are golden and crispy on one side, stir the potatoes to cook on the other sides. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sear the Steak Bites
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes to the pan in a single layer. Let the steak sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a brown crust forms. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent the steak from getting a proper sear. If necessary, work in batches.
Once the steak is seared to your desired level of doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, you can drain some off, leaving a little for flavor.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the rosemary or thyme (if using) and stir to combine. Let the herbs infuse the butter for a minute to release their flavors. You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on your personal taste—add more if you love a garlicky flavor!
5. Combine the Potatoes and Steak
Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet, stirring them to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Then, add the seared steak bites back into the pan, tossing everything together until evenly combined. Allow the steak and potatoes to simmer together in the garlic butter for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, if desired. Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes hot, either on a large platter for family-style serving or in individual bowls.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
- Use the Right Steak: For the best flavor and texture, use a tender cut of steak, such as sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon. These cuts cook quickly and have great flavor, making them ideal for this dish.
- Crispy Potatoes: To ensure your potatoes are crispy, don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking them. Give them enough space to sear properly and turn golden brown. If the pan is too crowded, the potatoes will steam instead of crisping.
- Let the Steak Rest: After searing the steak, let it rest for a couple of minutes before adding it back to the skillet. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps keep the steak tender and juicy.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add extra cloves. You can also use garlic powder in place of fresh garlic if necessary, but fresh garlic will provide the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Steak bites cook quickly, so be mindful of the cooking time. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a perfect medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust the time for your preferred level of doneness.
Variations of Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
- Steak and Sweet Potatoes: Swap the baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutritious alternative. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potatoes: For a seafood twist, swap out the steak for shrimp. Sear the shrimp in the garlic butter and serve with the crispy potatoes for a lighter, but still flavorful, dish.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add more vegetables to the skillet to make the dish more colorful and nutritious. Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be great additions. Add them when you cook the potatoes to ensure they get tender and infused with the garlic butter sauce.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. This adds a subtle heat that complements the rich flavors of the steak and potatoes.
Storage and Shelf Life
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Freeze the steak and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
Pair this dish with complementary sides to enhance your meal:
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: A light, crisp vegetable like asparagus or green beans balances the richness of the steak and potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a creamy dressing complements the savory steak and potatoes perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: For extra garlic goodness, serve this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a hearty and colorful side that pairs well with the garlic butter flavors.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Succulent steak bites seared in garlic butter, served with crispy, golden potatoes. This flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in just one skillet for easy cleanup!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes:
- 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or your preferred cut), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of smokiness)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Halve or quarter them depending on their size, making sure they are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Season both the potatoes and steak with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), ensuring they are evenly coated.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the halved or quartered potatoes to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes without stirring to allow the bottoms to crisp up. Once they are golden and crispy on one side, stir the potatoes to cook on the other sides. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes to the pan in a single layer. Let the steak sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a brown crust forms. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent the steak from getting a proper sear. If necessary, work in batches.
Once the steak is seared to your desired level of doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, you can drain some off, leaving a little for flavor.
In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the rosemary or thyme (if using) and stir to combine. Let the herbs infuse the butter for a minute to release their flavors. You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on your personal taste—add more if you love a garlicky flavor!
Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet, stirring them to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Then, add the seared steak bites back into the pan, tossing everything together until evenly combined. Allow the steak and potatoes to simmer together in the garlic butter for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, if desired. Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes hot, either on a large platter for family-style serving or in individual bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 30-35g
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes is a rich, satisfying, and flavorful meal that brings together juicy steak, crispy potatoes, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, this recipe will surely impress. Enjoy the bold flavors, tender steak, and crispy potatoes in every bite—they’ll quickly become a favorite in your cooking rotation!