Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Crispy Potatoes

Indulge in a truly comforting and effortlessly elegant meal with these irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Crispy Potatoes! This dish perfectly combines tender, succulent steak pieces with golden, crispy potatoes, all generously coated in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that comes together quickly, making it ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to entertain guests. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory beef, hearty potatoes, and the luxurious touch of garlic-herb butter, guaranteeing a delightful culinary experience that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 1½ pounds baby potatoes (such as red, gold, or mixed), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon powdered garlic (garlic powder)

For the Steak Bites:

• 1½ pounds sirloin steak (or ribeye, New York strip), trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce & Herbs:

• 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 lemon, half juiced (about 1 tablespoon), half cut into wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine the cubed baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon powdered garlic. Toss well until the potatoes are evenly coated.
   • Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet (you may need two if your pan is too crowded, to ensure crispiness).
2. Roast the Potatoes:
   • Place the baking sheet with the potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and nicely golden brown and crispy on the edges. Toss them once or twice during cooking for even browning.
3. Prepare the Steak Bites:
   • While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the steak bites. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels.
   • In a medium bowl, toss the steak cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
4. Cook the Steak Bites:
   • Once the potatoes have about 5-10 minutes left to roast, heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot (a few drops of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately).
   • Add the seasoned steak cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary).
   • Sear for 1-2 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. You want a good crust on all sides. Remove the cooked steak bites from the pan and set aside on a plate.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
   • Add the 6 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme (or dried thyme). Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley.
6. Combine and Serve:
   • Once the potatoes are done roasting, add the cooked steak bites and the roasted potatoes to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
   • Toss everything gently until the steak and potatoes are thoroughly coated in the fragrant garlic butter.
   • Garnish with additional fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of freshness.

Tips, Variations, and Storage:

• Steak Cut: Sirloin is a great, affordable choice that cooks quickly. Ribeye or New York strip will be more tender and luxurious.
• Doneness: For best results, use an instant-read thermometer for steak doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-140°F for medium). Since they are small, they cook quickly!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a subtle kick.
• Herb Options: Rosemary can be used in place of or in addition to thyme for a different aromatic profile.
• Pre-Boil Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, you can par-boil them for 5-7 minutes before tossing with oil and seasonings and roasting. This ensures a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
• Make Ahead (Partial): Potatoes can be cut and seasoned a few hours in advance. Garlic and herbs can be prepped. Steak is best cut and cooked just before serving.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to retain texture.

Pairings:

• Wine: A medium-bodied red wine such as a Pinot Noir, Merlot, or a lighter Zinfandel would complement the richness of the steak and garlic butter.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a crisp Caesar salad would provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich main dish.
• Vegetable: Steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus would add more color and nutrients.
• Bread: Crusty bread is excellent for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

Quick Info:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (including potato roasting and steak searing)
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Effort Level: Easy-Medium