Few meals satisfy as much as steak bites and potatoes. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak seared to perfection and crispy, golden potatoes—all cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s quick, easy to make, and cooked entirely in one skillet, making it ideal for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or casual entertaining.
This comfort food classic not only delivers on flavor but also on simplicity, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying.
Why This Steak Bites and Potatoes Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe shines for its:
- Speed and convenience: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- One-pan cooking: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Hearty and satisfying: Combines protein-packed steak with crispy potatoes, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
- Customizable flavors: You can adapt it to suit your taste buds with different seasonings and herbs.
- Budget-friendly: Made with affordable cuts of steak and simple pantry ingredients.
If you’re craving another potato-based dish, this rich and creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a cozy option for chilly nights.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes
To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following:
For the steak bites:
- Top sirloin steak (2 lbs): Tender, affordable, and perfect for a quick sear. Ribeye or strip steak works as substitutes.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and flavor to the steak.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and aids in browning the steak.
- Garlic cloves (3–4, minced): Fresh garlic enhances the dish with a savory aroma.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning.
For the Potatoes:
- Baby potatoes (1 lb): Halved for uniform size and quicker cooking.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to the potatoes.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Paprika (optional, ½ teaspoon): For a smoky undertone and a pop of color.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): To give the potatoes that golden, crispy exterior.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright contrast to the dish.
another easy potato recipe, check out this nostalgic potato candy recipe. It’s a fun treat perfect for holidays or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Steak Bites and Potatoes
Follow these steps for perfectly seared steak bites and crispy potatoes every time.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before cooking, prep everything to ensure smooth execution:
- Steak: Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove moisture, ensuring a beautiful golden sear. Cut the steak into 1.5–2 inch cubes for even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Potatoes: Halve the baby potatoes into 1-inch pieces. If using larger potatoes, dice them into similar sizes. Uniform cuts are essential for even cooking.
2. Cook the Potatoes
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, add the halved baby potatoes to the skillet. Arrange them cut-side down to ensure maximum contact with the heat.
- Sprinkle the potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sear the Steak Bites
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up over high heat.
- Add the seasoned steak bites to the hot skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow a proper sear.
- Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until the edges are browned and caramelized. Adjust the cooking time depending on how well-done you want your steak.
- Add the minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss the steak bites in the melted garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Combine and Garnish
- Return the crispy potatoes to the skillet with the steak bites. Gently toss everything together to ensure the potatoes and steak are evenly coated with the garlic butter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Steak Bites and Potatoes
To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind:
- Room temperature steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for at least 20–30 minutes before cooking. Cold steak won’t sear properly.
- Dry your steak: Patting the steak dry prevents excess moisture, which can cause steaming instead of browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If necessary, cook the steak in batches. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and ruin the sear.
- Use a hot skillet: A hot skillet ensures the steak caramelizes quickly while keeping the inside tender.
- Butter at the end: Adding butter and garlic during the final minutes of cooking infuses the steak with flavor without burning.
For another protein-packed dinner idea, try this savory beef chuck tender roast. It’s perfect for slow cooking and meal prepping.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some variations to try:
- Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the butter for added aroma.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning on the steak bites for a kick.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Sweet Potatoes: Substitute baby potatoes with diced sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Steak bites and potatoes are versatile, making them easy to pair with a variety of sides to create a balanced, complete meal. Here are some perfect serving suggestions to elevate this hearty one-pan dish:
1. Vegetable Sides
Adding vegetables alongside steak bites and potatoes not only adds nutrition but also color and balance to the meal. Try these options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Light and fresh, it pairs beautifully with the rich garlic butter flavor of the steak.
- Roasted Asparagus: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven for a crispy, tender side.
- Green Beans Almondine: Sauté green beans with garlic, butter, and sliced almonds for a slightly nutty, flavorful side.
- Sautéed Spinach: A quick side cooked in garlic and olive oil that complements the steak bites’ richness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a crunchy and caramelized veggie, roast Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
2. Fresh Salads
A crisp salad balances the richness of the steak bites and buttery potatoes.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine, parmesan, and croutons tossed in Caesar dressing.
- Garden Salad: Fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions with a light vinaigrette.
- Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad: Add a tangy, herby element with this Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad for a refreshing twist.
- Spinach and Arugula Salad: Top with cherry tomatoes, shaved parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon for a light pairing.
3. Bread Options
Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all the flavorful garlic butter juices from the skillet.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter for an indulgent addition.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are great for complementing the savory steak bites.
- Homemade Soft Pretzels: Try these fluffy and salty homemade soft pretzels as a unique bread option.
- Baguette or Ciabatta: Slices of rustic bread pair perfectly when dipped into the steak’s garlic butter sauce.
4. Creamy Side Dishes
For a luxurious meal, pair your steak bites with a creamy side:
- Mashed Potatoes: Whip up buttery, creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting addition to the crispy skillet potatoes.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: Add richness with gooey, cheesy pasta like this cheesesteak tortellini recipe.
- Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: Layered with sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives for ultimate indulgence.
- Creamed Spinach: A decadent side that pairs well with the savory steak bites.
5. Alternative Starches
If you want to skip potatoes or add more variety, try these starch alternatives:
- Buttery Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice dish cooked with garlic, butter, and herbs.
- Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious grain option with diced vegetables and lemon dressing.
- Couscous with Herbs: Quick-cooked couscous seasoned with parsley, mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Crustless Spinach Quiche: For a protein-packed addition, try this Crustless Spinach Quiche to accompany the steak.
6. Sauces for Extra Flavor
Enhance the flavor of your steak bites and potatoes with simple, complementary sauces:
- Chimichurri Sauce: A zesty blend of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
- Horseradish Cream: Adds a bold kick to the steak’s richness.
- Garlic Aioli: Perfect for dipping the crispy potatoes.
- Béarnaise Sauce: A classic, buttery sauce with tarragon for a restaurant-quality touch.
FAQs About Steak Bites and Potatoes
What is the Best Cut of Meat for Steak Bites?
The best cut of meat for steak bites is top sirloin steak. It’s tender, flavorful, and relatively affordable, making it ideal for quick, high-heat cooking. Sirloin holds up well to searing, ensuring a beautiful crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
Other excellent options include:
- Ribeye: Rich in marbling, offering extra flavor and tenderness.
- New York Strip: Leaner than ribeye but still tender and juicy.
- Tenderloin (Filet Mignon): Ultra-tender with a mild flavor, though pricier.
Avoid tougher cuts like chuck steak or round steak unless you marinate them beforehand, as these cuts can be chewy when cooked quickly.
Should You Eat Potatoes with Steak?
Yes, absolutely! Potatoes and steak are a classic combination that complements each other perfectly:
- Steak provides high-quality protein and iron.
- Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates for energy, along with vitamins like Vitamin C and potassium.
The richness of a seared steak balances beautifully with the crispy texture of pan-fried potatoes. For added variety, you can use sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness and more fiber.
If you enjoy potatoes, try this indulgent Loaded Baked Potato Soup for another comforting option that pairs beautifully with steak.
How Do You Know When Steak Bites Are Cooked?
To determine when steak bites are cooked perfectly, look for the following signs:
- Color:
- Medium-rare steak bites will have a browned crust on the outside and a pink center.
- Medium steak bites will show just a hint of pink in the middle.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
- Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
- Touch Test:
- Gently press the steak with your finger or tongs.
- Medium-rare: Feels soft and slightly springy.
- Medium: Feels firmer with a slight give.
- Gently press the steak with your finger or tongs.
- Timing: For steak bites cut into 1.5–2 inch cubes:
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side over high heat.
Remember to let the steak rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to ensure the juices redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.
Can You Cook Meat and Potatoes Together?
Yes, you can cook meat and potatoes together, and it’s a great way to maximize flavor and save time. In this recipe, both components are cooked in the same skillet, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Here’s why it works so well:
- Efficiency: Cooking both the steak bites and potatoes in one pan reduces cleanup and prep time.
- Flavor Infusion: The potatoes absorb the steak’s juices and garlic butter, creating an incredibly flavorful dish.
- Balanced Cooking Times: While the potatoes cook first to achieve that crispy texture, the steak bites are added later for quick searing, ensuring neither gets overcooked.
Pro Tip: Use a large skillet to ensure enough space for everything to cook evenly without steaming. Cast-iron skillets are perfect for this, as they hold heat well and give the steak a beautiful sear.
For another quick, one-pan meal, check out this creamy cheesesteak tortellini recipe that combines protein and carbs in a deliciously satisfying way.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
Conclusion
Steak bites and potatoes combine simplicity, flavor, and heartiness into one unforgettable dish. With its tender, garlic-butter steak and perfectly crispy potatoes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights and a crowd-pleaser for family dinners.
Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick meal after work or impress guests with minimal effort, this one-pan recipe has you covered.
For another comforting recipe perfect for winter, don’t miss this cozy Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It’s a bowl of warmth and flavor.
Now grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and enjoy this delightful dish—your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️