Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes: A Perfect One-Pan Wonder

There’s something magical about the combination of perfectly seared steak, golden potatoes, and fragrant garlic butter that makes my heart skip a beat. As someone who’s been cooking this dish for over a decade, I can tell you that this one-pan wonder never fails to impress. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-tested recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal.

Essential Ingredients

For 4 servings:

IngredientAmountNotes
Sirloin steak1.5 poundsCut into 1-inch cubes
Baby potatoes1.5 poundsQuartered
Butter6 tablespoonsUnsalted
Garlic cloves8Minced
Olive oil3 tablespoonsExtra virgin
Fresh rosemary2 sprigsWhole
Fresh thyme4 sprigsWhole
Salt1.5 teaspoonsKosher
Black pepper1 teaspoonFreshly ground
Parsley1/4 cupFinely chopped

Equipment Needed

ItemPurpose
Cast iron skillet12-inch or larger
Sharp knifeFor cubing steak
Kitchen tongsFor turning meat
Cutting boardPrep work
Garlic pressOptional
Meat thermometerRecommended

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Potatoes

  1. Wash and quarter baby potatoes (leave skin on for extra texture)
  2. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels
  3. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preparing the Steak

  1. Cut sirloin into 1-inch cubes
  2. Pat dry with paper towels (crucial for proper searing)
  3. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  4. Let rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes

Making the Garlic Butter

  1. Mince garlic cloves finely
  2. Soften butter at room temperature
  3. Mix together with:
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Half of the minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Potatoes

  1. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat
  2. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. Once oil is shimmering, add potatoes
  4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally
  5. Add rosemary and thyme sprigs
  6. Remove when golden brown and tender

Step 2: Cooking the Steak

  1. Increase heat to high
  2. Add remaining olive oil
  3. Place steak cubes in a single layer
  4. Sear for 3-4 minutes, turning once
  5. Add remaining garlic and 3 tablespoons butter
  6. Cook for additional 1-2 minutes

Step 3: Finishing

  1. Return potatoes to pan
  2. Add remaining garlic butter
  3. Toss everything together
  4. Garnish with fresh parsley

Pro Tips

  • Choose a well-marbled sirloin for the best flavor
  • Cut steak and potatoes in uniform sizes for even cooking
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed
  • Let the meat come to room temperature before cooking
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear
  • Let the pan get properly hot before adding ingredients

Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories580
Protein35g
Fat38g
Carbohydrates28g
Fiber3g
Iron4mg
Potassium890mg
Sodium890mg

Storage and Reheating

Storage MethodDurationNotes
Refrigerator3-4 daysIn airtight container
FreezerNot recommendedAffects texture
ReheatingStovetop preferred2-3 minutes

Serving Suggestions

  • Fresh garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette
  • Steamed green beans with almonds
  • Roasted asparagus with lemon
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Fresh crusty bread
  • Grilled corn on the cob

Common Questions

Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye or tenderloin work great, just adjust cooking time based on the cut’s thickness.

Q: Why aren’t my potatoes getting crispy?
Make sure they’re completely dry before cooking and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, resist the urge to stir too frequently.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can pre-cut and season the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance.

Q: What’s the best internal temperature for the steak?
For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). Here’s a temperature guide:

  • Rare: 125°F (52°C)
  • Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
  • Medium: 145°F (63°C)
  • Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
  • Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the amount by half as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Variations

Spicy Version

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Include 1 diced jalapeño
  • Use cayenne-seasoned butter

Herb-Crusted

  • Add dried Italian seasoning
  • Include crushed fennel seeds
  • Mix in fresh oregano

Mediterranean Style

  • Add sun-dried tomatoes
  • Include capers
  • Top with crumbled feta

Troubleshooting Guide

IssueCauseSolution
Tough meatOvercookingUse meat thermometer
Burnt garlicToo high heatAdd garlic later
Soggy potatoesToo much moisturePat dry thoroughly
Uneven cookingDifferent sizesCut uniform pieces

Health Considerations

  • For lower sodium: Reduce salt and use herbs for flavor
  • For lower fat: Use lean steak cuts and reduce butter
  • For gluten-free: Recipe is naturally gluten-free
  • For dairy-free: Substitute butter with olive oil and herbs

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