Butter Steak Bites with Garlic Herb Potatoes is a savory, indulgent recipe that combines tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection with crispy, flavor-packed potatoes tossed in a fragrant garlic and herb butter. This one-pan meal is both comforting and elegant, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or special occasions.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. Steak bites are quick to cook yet deliver all the satisfaction of a premium steak dinner, while the potatoes add a satisfying, hearty component. The butter, infused with fresh herbs and garlic, ties everything together with a rich, aromatic touch that’s impossible to resist.
Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, but it also comes together in under
an hour with minimal cleanup. Using one pan allows the steak juices to enhance the potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about crafting this unforgettable dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Steak bites and potatoes cook rapidly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights. With just one skillet, you’ll have minimal cleanup too.
- Rich, Buttery Flavor: The garlic herb butter adds depth to the steak and potatoes, making each bite luxurious.
- Customizable: You can adapt the seasonings, herbs, and even the type of steak to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is hearty and satisfying, appealing to meat lovers and potato enthusiasts alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s casual enough for family meals yet sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of the steak bites and potatoes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1 pound sirloin steak (or your preferred cut), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Potatoes
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Herb Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Prep the Steak: Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the steak helps achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prep the Potatoes: Halve the baby potatoes and pat them dry to ensure they crisp up in the pan. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving them to allow a golden crust to form.
- Flip the potatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until they are tender and crispy. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust. For medium-rare steak, cook for about 3-4 minutes total.
- Add minced garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking to infuse the steak with a garlicky aroma.
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest (if using). Mix well.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the potatoes to the skillet and pour half of the garlic herb butter over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the steak bites back to the skillet and drizzle the remaining garlic herb butter over the steak and potatoes. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.
Ingredient Background
- Steak: Sirloin is a fantastic choice for steak bites due to its balance of tenderness and affordability. Ribeye or tenderloin can be used for a more luxurious option.
- Baby Potatoes: These small, waxy potatoes are ideal for this dish because they hold their shape well and develop a crispy exterior while remaining fluffy inside.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary infuse the butter with vibrant, earthy flavors, while garlic adds depth. The lemon zest enhances the dish with a subtle brightness.
Technique Tips
- Dry the Steak and Potatoes: Removing excess moisture ensures a golden, crispy exterior on both the steak bites and the potatoes.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing steak bites in a single layer prevents steaming, allowing each piece to develop a proper crust.
- Use Cast Iron: A cast-iron skillet retains heat beautifully, making it perfect for achieving the best sear.
- Rest the Steak: Allowing the steak bites to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender bites.
- Butter Timing: Add the garlic herb butter at the end of cooking to prevent the garlic from burning and to preserve the fresh flavors of the herbs.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Steak Salad: Serve the steak bites and potatoes over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with the garlic herb butter as a warm dressing.
- Skewers: Thread the steak bites and potatoes onto skewers for a fun, appetizer-friendly presentation.
- Bowls: Create a hearty meal bowl by pairing the steak and potatoes with steamed vegetables or a grain like quinoa or rice.
- Family Style: Serve the steak bites and potatoes in the skillet for a rustic, shareable option. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
Additional Tips for Success
- Marinating the Steak: For extra flavor, marinate the steak bites in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking.
- Using Other Proteins: Substitute steak with chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Adding Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus into the dish for added variety and color.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic herb butter for a touch of heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the steak bites and potatoes before serving for an extra layer of richness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead of regular butter.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap the garlic herb butter for a soy sauce and sesame oil glaze, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked steak and potatoes in separate containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: To maintain the crispy texture of the potatoes, reheat them in a skillet or air fryer instead of the microwave.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Lean Protein: Use lean cuts of steak or substitute with chicken breast for a lower-fat option.
- More Veggies: Add more vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans for a nutrient boost.
- Reduced Butter: Cut the butter in half and use olive oil for a lighter version of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Game Day: Serve steak bites and potatoes with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or a tangy chimichurri.
- Date Night: Pair the dish with a bottle of red wine and a simple side salad for an elegant meal.
- Potluck: Present the dish in a cast-iron skillet for a warm, rustic look that’s easy to transport.
Special Equipment
- Cast-Iron Skillet: Essential for even cooking and achieving a perfect sear.
- Sharp Knife: Makes cutting the steak into uniform cubes easier.
- Tongs: For flipping steak bites and potatoes without piercing the meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak can be used. Adjust cooking times as needed. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The potatoes can be cooked ahead and reheated, but the steak is best cooked fresh to maintain its tenderness. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat steak bites and potatoes in a hot skillet to retain their texture. - Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. - How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Add minced garlic in the last 30 seconds of cooking and stir frequently to avoid burning. - What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Steamed vegetables, a side salad, or garlic bread complement this dish beautifully. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and cook similarly. - Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, both the steak bites and potatoes can be air-fried. Cook the potatoes first, then the steak bites, and toss them together with the herb butter.
Conclusion
Butter Steak Bites with Garlic Herb Potatoes is a dish that brings bold flavors and comforting textures to your table with minimal effort. The tender steak bites, crispy potatoes, and rich garlic herb butter create a perfect harmony that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving guests at a special event, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. With simple ingredients and a one-pan approach, it’s a go-to for flavor, convenience, and style.
PrintButter Steak Bites with Garlic Herb Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1 pound sirloin steak (or your preferred cut), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Potatoes
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Herb Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Prep the Steak: Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the steak helps achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prep the Potatoes: Halve the baby potatoes and pat them dry to ensure they crisp up in the pan. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the potatoes cut-side down in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving them to allow a golden crust to form.
- Flip the potatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until they are tender and crispy. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust. For medium-rare steak, cook for about 3-4 minutes total.
- Add minced garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking to infuse the steak with a garlicky aroma.
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest (if using). Mix well.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the potatoes to the skillet and pour half of the garlic herb butter over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the steak bites back to the skillet and drizzle the remaining garlic herb butter over the steak and potatoes. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of the steak bites and potatoes
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g