This garlic butter steak bites and potatoes recipe is not just a meal, but a family favorite that’s become a staple in many households. With perfectly seared, tender steak bites and golden, crispy potatoes, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning to impress guests, these steak bites and potatoes are guaranteed to impress.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the rich flavors of steak and garlic butter with the satisfying crunch of crispy potatoes, creating a truly irresistible meal. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Tender, juicy steak: Achieve the perfect medium-rare sear every time.
Crispy, golden potatoes: A two-step cooking method ensures maximum crispiness.
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—faster than takeout but with gourmet flavors.
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable cuts of steak that deliver premium taste without the price tag.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sirloin steak – 1.5 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Yukon Gold potatoes – 1.5 lbs, quartered
Fresh garlic – 6 cloves, minced
Butter – 4 tablespoons (unsalted)
Olive oil – 3 tablespoons (extra virgin)
Fresh thyme – 2 teaspoons (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Salt – To taste (kosher or sea salt preferred)
Black pepper – 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Place quartered potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let cool for 5 minutes. Smash each potato piece gently with a fork to create rough, craggy surfaces for crisping.
Cook the Steak Bites: Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once shimmering, add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Don’t move them for 2-3 minutes to allow the crust to form. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from the skillet and tent with foil.
Crisp the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add the smashed potatoes, cut-side down, and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and crisp the other side for 3-4 minutes.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in fresh thyme. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Steak Bites: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a flavorful kick.
Herb-Loaded Version: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme into the garlic butter for a garden-fresh flavor.
Add Vegetables: Bell peppers or onions can be added to the pan for extra depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Stir occasionally for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave as it will make the potatoes soggy and the steak tough.

FAQs

How do I know when the steak bites are done?

Steak bites are perfectly cooked when they have a golden-brown crust and feel slightly firm. For medium-rare, cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the steak and potatoes up to 4 hours ahead. Boil and smash the potatoes up to 2 hours before cooking, keeping them covered at room temperature.

What’s the secret to crispy potatoes?

The key is the two-step process: boil the potatoes until tender, then smash them to create lots of edges. These irregular surfaces allow for the perfect crisp when pan-fried.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Fresh potatoes are preferred for this recipe as frozen potatoes contain too much moisture, which will prevent them from crisping up properly.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To avoid burning garlic, reduce the heat to medium-low before adding it to the pan. Cook for only 1 minute, just enough for it to become fragrant.

What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Sirloin steak is the best choice for affordability and tenderness. New York strip and ribeye are also great options if you’re looking for a more premium cut.

Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Golds?

Russet potatoes tend to get crispier, but they may fall apart more easily. Yukon Golds hold their shape better and offer a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is essential for this recipe. Garlic powder lacks the depth and brightness needed to complement the rich butter and steak.

What do I serve with steak bites and potatoes?

This dish pairs well with a simple arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or crusty artisan bread. For wine pairing, try a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a smooth Malbec.

How do I make the steak bites extra tender?

Pat the steak dry before cooking to avoid steaming. Cook the bites in a hot pan and allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute.

Conclusion

This garlic butter steak bites and potatoes recipe is a crowd-pleaser for good reason. It combines tender, juicy steak with ultra-crispy potatoes and a flavorful garlic butter sauce, making it the perfect comfort meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or trying to impress guests, this dish will not disappoint. Follow the tips and tricks to ensure restaurant-quality results every time!