Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Golden Potatoes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes recipe! Tender, juicy steak pieces are seared to perfection and paired with crispy, golden baby potatoes, all coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This dish is a perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal choice for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is approachable yet impressive. The combination of succulent steak, buttery potatoes, and fragrant garlic creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable meal, complete with tips, tricks, and ideas to make it your own!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak, or your favorite cut), trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cups baby potatoes, halved (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work wonderfully)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced (adjust to taste for a bolder or milder garlic flavor)
- 1.5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (optional, for an herby touch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet (cast iron preferred for even searing)
- Medium pot for boiling potatoes
- Tongs for flipping steak
- Colander for draining potatoes
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
Start by getting those adorable baby potatoes ready. Place the halved potatoes in a medium pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 8–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain them in a colander and set aside to dry slightly. This step ensures the potatoes crisp up beautifully when they hit the skillet later. - Sear the Steak Bites
While the potatoes are cooking, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a gorgeous, caramelized crust. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron works wonders!) over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Add the steak cubes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. If needed, work in batches to avoid steaming the meat. Once cooked to your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 130–135°F internally), transfer the steak to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. - Create the Garlic Butter Magic
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. As it melts, scrape up any browned bits left from the steak—these are packed with flavor! Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 30–60 seconds, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. - Crisp Up the Potatoes
Add the drained potatoes to the skillet, cut-side down, and toss them in the garlic butter. Let them cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop a crispy, golden edge. Stir occasionally and continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until they’re perfectly caramelized. If using fresh thyme or red pepper flakes, sprinkle them in now for an extra layer of flavor. - Combine and Season
Return the steak bites to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Toss everything together gently to coat the steak and potatoes in the luscious garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm the steak through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. - Garnish and Serve
Transfer the steak bites and potatoes to a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot, and watch your guests dig in with enthusiasm!
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few thoughtful sides:
- Fresh Greens: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Bread: Serve with crusty artisan bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Veggies: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or grilled zucchini make excellent companions.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Steak: Sirloin is budget-friendly and flavorful, but ribeye or New York strip adds extra richness. Avoid lean cuts like filet mignon, as they can dry out during searing.
- Don’t Skip the Dry Pat: Drying the steak before searing ensures a better crust and prevents excess moisture from steaming the meat.
- Garlic Control: If you’re sensitive to garlic, reduce to 3 cloves or sauté longer for a milder flavor.
- Make It Quick: For faster prep, boil the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the steak seasoning for a smoky or fiery kick.
- Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh rosemary or chives for a different aromatic profile.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the potatoes during the final minute of cooking for a decadent touch.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes with the potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of butter or olive oil to revive the flavors. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes may become mushy upon thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold, satisfying flavors. The tender steak, crispy potatoes, and garlicky butter sauce create a harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes—whether you like it spicy, herby, or cheesy. Make this dish once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!