For a quick and satisfying dinner that feels gourmet, try this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes recipe. Tender steak bites seared to perfection in a garlic butter sauce, paired with cheesy smashed potatoes, make for an easy, flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner when you want something impressive without too much effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce elevates the steak bites, while the smashed potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and crisp around the edges.
- Quick and Easy: Both the steak bites and potatoes come together in under an hour, making this dish ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Restaurant-Style Meal at Home: Impress your family or guests with this restaurant-quality meal that’s simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
- 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Smashed Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Smash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and place them on a greased baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each potato until slightly flattened.
- Season and Bake: Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy around the edges.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cook the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Season the Steak: In a large bowl, toss the steak cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil until shimmering.
- Sear the Steak: Add the steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Finish the Steak: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until warmed through.
3. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the garlic butter steak bites alongside the cheesy smashed potatoes.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley over the steak bites and chopped chives over the potatoes if desired. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Best Steak Bites and Smashed Potatoes
- Room Temperature Steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the steak bites in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent a good sear.
- Boil Potatoes Until Just Tender: Make sure the potatoes are just tender before smashing them. Overcooked potatoes can become too mushy to smash properly.
Variations
- Spicy Steak Bites: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the steak seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Use 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning and extra Parmesan cheese to give the potatoes a garlic Parmesan flavor.
- Herb Butter Steak Bites: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for extra herbaceous flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or even strip steak for this recipe. Just make sure to cut it into even 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for convenience.
Can I make the smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, then bake and add the cheese when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A side of garlic bread also makes for a delicious addition.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and textures. With tender, juicy steak bites coated in garlic butter and cheesy, crispy-edged potatoes, this meal is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and make it your own. Happy cooking!
