If comfort food and gourmet dining had a baby, it would be Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes. This recipe is everything you want in a meal: tender, juicy steak bites, golden-crisp potatoes, and a luxurious garlic butter sauce tying it all together. It’s hearty, satisfying, and—here’s the kicker—comes together in just one pan. That’s right, one pan for dinner and (almost) no dishes to wash after.
I first fell in love with this recipe on a particularly hectic weeknight. The fridge was running low on supplies, and I needed something quick but indulgent. A bag of baby potatoes, a sirloin steak, and a little garlic later, dinner was served. And let me tell you—it was love at first bite. Now, it’s a go-to recipe for busy evenings and cozy nights in.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this dish delivers every time. The crispy edges of the potatoes soak up the garlicky butter, while the steak bites are perfectly seared for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Trust me, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Everything cooks together, making this as practical as it is delicious.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with straightforward steps. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of steak, potatoes, and garlic butter is universally loved—great for picky eaters and foodies alike.
- Customizable: Want more veggies? Add green beans or asparagus. Craving spice? Toss in some red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless.
- Rich Flavor: The buttery garlic sauce coats every bite, while the steak’s natural juices elevate the dish to restaurant-quality goodness.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 hearty portions
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 520
- Key Nutritional Info: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 32g
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes (or halal-certified beef of choice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil, for searing
For the Potatoes:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved (or cubed if larger)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to your love of garlic!)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for a fresh tang)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes. If using larger potatoes, cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this ensures a perfect sear. Cut into 1-inch cubes and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Potatoes
- Heat a large skillet (cast iron works best) over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the potatoes in a single layer, cut side down. Sprinkle with oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: To speed up the process, cover the skillet for the first 5 minutes. This traps steam and helps the potatoes cook faster.
3. Sear the Steak Bites
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and crispy on the edges. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest steak bites, avoid overcooking. Medium-rare to medium is ideal. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 135-145°F.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice (if using), stirring to combine.
Pro Tip: For extra richness, deglaze the pan with 1-2 tablespoons of beef broth or water before adding the butter. This helps lift all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the potatoes and steak bites to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve
- Over fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
- With a side of crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Paired with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp salad for added freshness.
Additional Tips
- Use the Right Pan: A cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and delivers that irresistible golden crust on both the steak and potatoes.
- Prep Ahead: Chop the potatoes and steak in advance to save time. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Room Temperature Steak: Let the steak rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better searing.
- Control the Garlic: If you’re not a garlic fanatic, start with 2-3 cloves and adjust to your taste. For extra depth, roast the garlic beforehand.
- Customize the Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little kick.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Portobello mushrooms work wonderfully in soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your spices and butter to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
- Herb Twist: Swap parsley for thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some asparagus, broccoli florets, or green beans during the final minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
- Spicy Version: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the steak seasoning for an extra kick.
Freezing and Storage
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Freezing
- Freezing Potatoes: Unfortunately, cooked potatoes don’t freeze well—they can become grainy upon reheating. If freezing, focus on the steak and sauce.
- Freezing Steak: Place cooked steak bites in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh potatoes.
Special Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet: For that perfect sear and even cooking.
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping the steak and potatoes without losing their crispy edges.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak bites are cooked to perfection.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, other cuts like tenderloin or strip steak also work well. If you’re on a budget, flank steak or chuck steak can be used, though they may require a little more marinating or tenderizing beforehand.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a great alternative. They’ll add a natural sweetness that complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes may cook slightly faster than regular potatoes, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
No problem! A heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet will also work. Just ensure it’s large enough to cook everything evenly without overcrowding. Nonstick pans can be used, but they might not provide the same golden crust.
How do I keep the steak juicy and tender?
Here are some tips to ensure juicy steak bites:
- Don’t overcook: Aim for medium-rare to medium (135°F to 145°F).
- Pat the steak dry: Removing excess moisture helps achieve a better sear.
- Cook in batches: Overcrowding the pan causes steaming instead of searing.
- Rest the steak: Let the steak bites rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is highly versatile. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or zucchini can be added. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the potatoes or steak to ensure they stay crisp-tender.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:
- Skillet: Warm over medium heat in a skillet to maintain the crispy edges of the potatoes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
- Avoid Overheating: Prolonged reheating can make the steak tough.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep in advance:
- Potatoes: Par-cook the potatoes by boiling them until just tender, then store them in the fridge. Sear and finish cooking when ready to serve.
- Steak: Cut and season the steak bites a few hours ahead, storing them covered in the fridge.
Can I freeze the steak bites and potatoes?
Freezing cooked steak works well; however, potatoes tend to lose their texture when frozen and reheated. If freezing, focus on the steak and sauce. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What can I do if I accidentally overcook the steak?
Don’t worry—it happens! If the steak bites are slightly overcooked, mix them into the garlic butter sauce while still warm to help regain some moisture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dish to make it a complete meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy soup starter. If you’re looking for something heartier, serve it alongside buttered rice or fluffy dinner rolls to soak up that garlic butter goodness.
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.
How do I get the garlic butter sauce just right?
The key to a great garlic butter sauce is balance:
Add lemon juice or a splash of broth to brighten the flavors.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
Let the butter melt gently to avoid burning.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild garlic butter sauce and tender potatoes make this a hit with kids.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen hero with minimal effort. It’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you’re craving comfort food that feels just a little fancy.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! When you do, snap a picture, share it on social media, and tag me. I’d love to see your one-pan masterpieces. Happy cooking!