Introduction
This dish is a hearty, flavor-packed combination of juicy garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy, cheesy smashed potatoes. The steak bites cook quickly and soak up rich garlic butter, while the smashed potatoes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with cheese. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or indulgent weekend meal that feels restaurant-quality yet easy to make at home.
Description
Tender chunks of steak are seared to perfection, then coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. They’re served alongside golden, cheesy smashed potatoes made from baby potatoes that are boiled, smashed, and roasted with butter and cheese. Together, they make a comforting and satisfying meal that balances rich flavors and contrasting textures.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
1½ pounds (680 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
1½ pounds (680 g) baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, if preferred)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place baby potatoes in a pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil.
Cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes, then drain well.
Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
Brush or drizzle with melted butter and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and bake for another 5 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chives or parsley before serving.
2. Cook the Steak Bites
While the potatoes roast, pat steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak bites in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
Sear each side for 2–3 minutes, until browned and cooked to desired doneness.
Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside.
Lower heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and stir in minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Return steak bites to the pan and toss in the garlic butter for about 1 minute.
Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Tips
Don’t overcrowd the pan: This helps the steak sear properly instead of steaming.
Use a meat thermometer: For medium-rare, aim for 130–135°F (54–57°C) internal temperature.
Dry the steak well: Moisture prevents proper browning.
Smash gently: Too much pressure can cause potatoes to fall apart.
Add garlic last: Garlic burns quickly, so sauté it briefly after the steak is seared.
Variations
Spicy Steak Bites: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter.
Herb Butter Version: Mix butter with thyme, rosemary, or dill for extra flavor.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Add cooked bacon bits, sour cream, or green onions on top.
Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
Lemon Garlic Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the garlic butter sauce for a bright finish.
Correction
If the steak bites turn out tough, it’s likely they were overcooked or not rested before serving. Let them rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
If the potatoes aren’t crispy enough, increase oven temperature slightly or broil them for the last 2 minutes.
Enjoy
Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites hot with the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes on the side. The buttery garlic flavor and crispy, cheesy potatoes make every bite irresistible. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.
