Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet: A Hearty One-Pan Feast
Savor the comforting, savory goodness of this Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet, a one-pan wonder that brings together juicy, perfectly seared steaks and crispy, golden potatoes bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This dish is the epitome of rustic elegance—tender steaks infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, paired with perfectly seasoned potatoes that soak up every drop of buttery goodness. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive yet fuss-free meal for guests, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal cleanup. Ready in just over 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients (Serves 2-4)
- For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip steaks (6-8 oz each, about 1-inch thick), brought to room temperature
- 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- For the Potatoes:
- 4-5 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet recommended), peeled (optional) and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika for a milder flavor)
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for extra depth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Tongs for handling the steak
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring potatoes
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Aluminum foil (for resting the steak)
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
Begin by preparing the potatoes to ensure they’re crispy and flavorful. Heat 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced potatoes in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap too much for even browning. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Cook for 10-14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the potatoes are golden brown on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. If the potatoes brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to ensure they cook through. Once done, transfer the potatoes to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm. - Sear the Steaks:
In the same skillet, add 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high until it begins to smoke lightly—this ensures a perfect sear. While the skillet heats, pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which promotes a beautiful crust. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary (if using), gently pressing the seasonings into the meat. Place the steaks in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130-135°F / 54-57°C). Adjust the cooking time for your preferred doneness: 3-4 minutes per side for rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium-well. During the final minute of cooking, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the fragrant garlic butter, infusing them with rich flavor. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let them rest for 5-7 minutes to lock in the juices. - Bring It All Together:
While the steaks rest, return the cooked potatoes to the skillet, stirring them gently into the residual garlic butter to coat them evenly. Allow the potatoes to warm through for 1-2 minutes over low heat, absorbing the buttery, garlicky goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. - Slice and Serve:
Slice the rested steaks thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness, revealing a juicy, perfectly cooked interior. Arrange the warm potatoes on a serving platter or individual plates, then top with the sliced steak. Spoon any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the steak and potatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if desired, a few extra thyme leaves for a vibrant, aromatic finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet meal is a complete dish on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages to elevate the experience:
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with sautéed green beans, roasted broccoli, or grilled zucchini for a fresh, colorful contrast.
- Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Bread: Offer warm dinner rolls or a crusty artisan loaf to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Beverages: Pair with a bold red wine like a Zinfandel or Merlot, a hoppy craft beer, or a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.
Tips for Success
- Steak Selection: Ribeye offers rich marbling for extra flavor, while sirloin is leaner but still tender. New York strip is a great middle ground. Choose steaks of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Doneness Guide: For precision, use a meat thermometer: rare (120-125°F / 49-52°C), medium-rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C), medium (140-145°F / 60-63°C), medium-well (150-155°F / 66-68°C). Avoid overcooking, as bavette and similar cuts can become tough if cooked past medium.
- Potato Prep: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Parboiling the potatoes for 4-5 minutes before skillet-cooking can speed up the process and ensure a softer interior.
- Garlic Butter Basting: Basting the steaks with garlic butter during the final minute adds incredible flavor. Tilt the skillet carefully to avoid splattering.
- Make It Quick: For faster prep, dice the potatoes in advance and store them in cold water in the fridge (drain and dry well before cooking).
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the potatoes or sauce for a subtle heat.
- Herb Swap: Replace thyme and rosemary with fresh oregano or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled blue cheese over the potatoes just before serving for an indulgent touch.
- Mushroom Add-In: Sauté sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms with the garlic for a savory, umami-packed addition to the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini chunks for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, herb-infused steak with crispy, seasoned potatoes in a single pan for easy cleanup. The garlic butter sauce ties everything together with its rich, aromatic flavor, making every bite irresistible. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste—whether you prefer a rare or well-done steak or want to experiment with additional spices or veggies. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover steak and potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their textures.
- Reheating: Reheat the steak gently in a low oven (250°F / 120°C) or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking. Warm the potatoes in a skillet over medium heat with a small pat of butter to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, but this may soften the potatoes.
- Freezing: The potatoes can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the steak is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its texture. Thaw frozen potatoes overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a mouthwatering, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this one-pan dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Try it tonight and enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of garlic butter goodness!
