Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes

This garlic butter steak bites and potatoes recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender, juicy steak bites and crispy, herb-infused potatoes creates the perfect one-pan meal that never disappoints, even on the busiest weeknights.

I discovered this recipe when looking for something quick yet impressive for unexpected dinner guests. Now it's my go-to solution whenever I need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The way the garlic butter creates a rich flavor base for both the steak and potatoes is simply magical.

Ingredients

• Ghee or butter: Divided into portions creates the perfect cooking fat for both potatoes and steak giving everything a rich buttery flavor
• Olive oil: Prevents the butter from burning and adds its own subtle flavor profile
• Yukon gold potatoes: Hold their shape well while getting crispy outside and creamy inside
• Fresh garlic cloves: Provide aromatic flavor that infuses both the potatoes and steak
• Dried herbs: Like thyme and oregano add earthy notes that complement the beef beautifully
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps create a beautiful crust on both components
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the richness of the dish
• Sirloin steak: Offers the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor without breaking the bank

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cooking surface:

Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat until evenly hot but not smoking. Add the olive oil and two tablespoons of ghee, allowing them to meld together. The combination prevents burning while providing rich flavor. A properly preheated pan ensures your potatoes will start crisping immediately rather than steaming.

Cook the potatoes to golden perfection:

Once the fat is shimmering, add your potato cubes to the pan. Immediately sprinkle all the seasonings directly onto the potatoes. This allows the herbs and garlic to bloom in the hot fat, infusing the potatoes with flavor from the start. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a golden crust before stirring. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes total, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. The potatoes are done when they develop a beautiful golden crust and can be easily pierced with a fork. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Sear the steak to juicy perfection:

Increase the heat to medium high and add the remaining ghee to the empty pan. Once melted and hot, add your steak cubes and season with salt and pepper. The most crucial step here is patience. Allow the steak pieces to sear undisturbed for at least 2 minutes to develop a flavorful crust before stirring. Once you flip them, they need just 1 to 2 minutes more until golden brown but still juicy inside. For medium rare steak bites, look for slight pinkness in the center.

Combine for the final touch:

Return the cooked potatoes to the pan with the steak and gently stir to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. The potatoes will absorb some of the steak juices, making them even more delicious. Finish with fresh parsley for a bright contrast to the rich flavors.

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I absolutely love the versatility of this recipe. My personal secret is to let the skillet get properly hot before adding anything. The first time I made this dish, I rushed the process and my potatoes took forever to brown. Now I patiently wait for that shimmer in the oil, and the results are consistently restaurant-worthy every time.

Best Potato Selection

Yukon gold potatoes are my top recommendation for this recipe because they have the perfect starch content to get crispy exteriors while maintaining creamy interiors. Red potatoes work well too but will have a slightly waxier texture. Russet potatoes can substitute in a pinch but tend to fall apart more easily during cooking. Whatever variety you choose, make sure to cut them into uniform small cubes so they cook quickly and evenly alongside the steak.

Steak Selection Tips

Sirloin is the ideal cut for this recipe because it offers great flavor and tenderness without being prohibitively expensive. Ribeye would be luxuriously delicious but costs significantly more. Avoid using leaner cuts like eye of round as they can become tough in the high heat cooking method used here. If you want to splurge, tenderloin makes exceptionally tender steak bites but has milder flavor. Always pat your steak dry with paper towels before cutting and cooking to ensure proper searing.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette creates a perfect light contrast to the rich main dish. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. The garlic butter sauce is perfect for sopping up with crusty bread. For entertaining, transfer everything to a warmed serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a professional presentation.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium low heat with a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can make the steak tough and the potatoes soggy. If you must use a microwave, use 50% power in short intervals and stir between heating cycles. This dish does not freeze well as the texture of the potatoes changes significantly when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin steak is perfect for this dish as it is tender and flavorful, but other tender cuts like ribeye or filet mignon can be used as well.

→ Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can substitute yukon gold potatoes with red, yellow, or fingerling potatoes. Just ensure they’re diced evenly for even cooking.

→ How can I prevent the potatoes from sticking?

Use a well-heated skillet and stir the potatoes frequently, about every 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan for best results.

→ What is the best way to achieve a good sear on the steak?

Make sure the skillet is hot and avoid stirring the steak pieces too early. Letting them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes helps create a nice crust.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can pre-cook the potatoes and reheat them with the steak for convenience. Avoid overcooking the steak when reheating.

→ What herbs can I use for variation?

In addition to thyme and oregano, rosemary or parsley can be excellent substitutes or additions for varied flavors.