Garlic Butter Steak Bites

This garlic butter steak bites and potatoes skillet has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something satisfying yet simple. The combination of tender steak cubes and crispy potatoes all infused with garlic butter creates a restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss.

I first made this dish when entertaining last-minute dinner guests, and it's since become my most requested recipe. The way the garlic butter creates a flavorful crust on both the steak and potatoes is absolutely magical.

Ingredients

• Ghee or butter: Divided into portions for cooking both potatoes and steak. The clarified nature of ghee allows for higher heat cooking without burning.
• Olive oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds another layer of flavor.
• Yukon gold potatoes: Cut into small cubes. These potatoes have the perfect waxy yet creamy texture that holds shape while getting crispy edges.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Minced finely. Fresh is essential here as it infuses the butter with incredible aroma.
• Dried thyme and oregano: Provide classic steak-friendly herbs that complement both the meat and potatoes.
• Sea salt and black pepper: For seasoning throughout cooking. Proper seasoning is crucial for bringing out the natural flavors.
• Sirloin steak: Cut into uniform cubes. This cut offers the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor without breaking the bank.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Skillet:

Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat and add olive oil plus two tablespoons of ghee. A properly preheated pan is essential for developing those beautiful crispy edges on the potatoes. Allow the fat to fully melt and shimmer slightly before adding any ingredients.

Cook The Potatoes:

Add the potato cubes to the hot skillet and immediately sprinkle with garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. Let the potatoes cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust before stirring. This initial searing is crucial for texture. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes total, stirring every couple minutes to ensure even browning on all sides. The potatoes are done when they develop a beautiful golden exterior and yield easily when pierced with a fork. Remove from pan and set aside with all those flavorful browned bits.

Sear The Steak:

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining ghee to the same pan. The higher heat is crucial for properly searing meat. Once the ghee is fully melted and hot, add the steak cubes and season with salt and pepper. Allow the meat to sear undisturbed for at least 2 minutes before stirring. This patience creates the caramelized crust that delivers maximum flavor. After the initial sear, stir and continue cooking just 1-2 minutes more for medium-rare to medium doneness.

Combine Everything:

Return the cooked potatoes to the pan with the steak and stir to combine all ingredients. The residual heat will warm the potatoes back up and allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The combination of the meat juices with the garlic butter creates an incredible natural sauce that coats every bite.

The key to this recipe is getting the perfect sear on both the potatoes and steak. I discovered that letting each sit undisturbed for those first few minutes is what transforms this from good to exceptional. My husband always comments that the golden crust on the potatoes is what makes this dish restaurant quality.

The Cast Iron Advantage

Using a cast iron skillet makes all the difference in this recipe. The heavy bottom and excellent heat retention create the ideal environment for developing deep flavor and perfect texture in both the potatoes and steak. The natural seasoning of a well-maintained cast iron also adds subtle depth to the dish that newer non-stick pans simply cannot provide. If you do not have cast iron, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan will work, though you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

Doneness Guide

The cooking time for the steak will vary depending on your preferred doneness level. For medium-rare, aim for about 3-4 minutes total cooking time, with the initial 2-minute sear followed by just 1-2 minutes of additional cooking. For medium, extend the second phase to 2-3 minutes. For medium-well, continue cooking for 3-4 minutes after the initial sear. Remember that the steak cubes will continue cooking slightly after being removed from heat, so err on the side of less cooking time. The small size of the steak cubes means they cook quickly, so watch them carefully to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pan wonder is delicious on its own, but can be elevated in several ways. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness of the dish. A dollop of horseradish cream or chimichurri sauce on top adds brightness and complexity. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted asparagus or brussels sprouts on the side. The steak bites and potatoes also make excellent filling for breakfast tacos the next morning if you happen to have leftovers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of potato for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute Yukon gold potatoes with red potatoes or russet potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into even cubes for even cooking.

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! You can use ribeye, tenderloin, or strip steak. Just adjust the cooking time based on the tenderness of the cut.

→ How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the potatoes are dry before cooking and stir frequently. Using sufficient ghee or butter also helps prevent sticking.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute ghee with a dairy-free spread or additional olive oil for a similar flavor profile.

→ What other seasonings can I add?

You can experiment with smoked paprika, rosemary, or chili flakes for added flavor. Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.