Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes is a simple and delicious dish that combines juicy, tender cubes of steak with crispy, golden potatoes all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. The smell of garlic mingled with sizzling steak and potatoes makes your kitchen instantly feel cozy and inviting.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but quick to throw together. The secret is in getting the potatoes really crisp while keeping the steak bites perfectly cooked and juicy on the inside. I usually like to add a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
This meal works great for a weeknight dinner but also impresses if friends drop by unexpectedly. I often serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s one of those comfort foods that always brings smiles to the table, and I can never get enough of that buttery garlic flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Gold Potatoes: These small potatoes crisp nicely with a tender inside. If you can’t find baby gold, red potatoes or fingerlings work well too. Just cut all pieces to a similar size for even roasting.
Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: I prefer sirloin for a leaner bite, but ribeye adds extra flavor thanks to its marbling. If you want a budget-friendly option, flank steak or chuck steak works but slice against the grain to keep it tender.
Butter & Garlic: Butter gives that rich, silky coating to the steak and potatoes, while fresh garlic boosts the flavor. You can swap butter for ghee or olive oil if dairy is a concern, and garlic powder works in a pinch but fresh is best.
Olive Oil: Used for roasting and searing, it helps create crispiness and a good crust on the steak. You can use avocado oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point instead.
Italian Seasoning: Adds an herby touch to the potatoes. If you don’t have it, dried thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika offers a nice alternative.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Potatoes While Keeping the Steak Juicy?
The trick is to cook them separately and at the right temperatures:
- Roast Potatoes: Toss halved potatoes with oil, seasoning, and place cut side down on a sheet. Roast at a high temperature (425°F) to get that golden, crispy outside and soft inside. Flip halfway through, but don’t stir too soon or they won’t crisp.
- Sear Steak Bites: Pat steak dry and don’t overcrowd the pan. Use medium-high heat to develop a nice crust quickly. Overcrowding causes steaming, so cook in batches if needed.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: After searing, lower heat and gently cook garlic in butter to infuse the sauce without burning. Then toss steak bites back in to coat and finish with roasted potatoes.
Following this method keeps the steak tender inside and ensures the potatoes have a delightful crunch. It’s all about temperature control and timing!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven and baking sheet – I like using a rimmed sheet for roasting potatoes evenly and catching drips.
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan – perfect for searing steak and making the garlic butter sauce. It heats evenly and gives a great crust.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – helps flip potatoes and turn steak bites without breaking them apart.
- Measuring spoons and knife – for precise seasoning and chopping garlic and parsley.
- Cutting board – for chopping steak, garlic, and parsley easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different proteins: chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak, cooked until tender. They soak up the flavors nicely.
- Add cheese: top with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra richness right before serving.
- Incorporate veggies: sauté bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms with the steak to make it more colorful and nutritious.
- Spice it up: sprinkle with red pepper flakes or paprika for a little heat or smoky flavor.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby gold potatoes, halved
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking. While the potatoes roast in the oven, you can quickly sear the steak bites and make the garlic butter sauce. In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet cut side down. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
While the potatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. Add the steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce and Combine:
Lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the steak bites back in and stir to coat with the garlic butter. Then, add the roasted potatoes and gently toss everything together. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat dry thoroughly to get a good sear.
How Can I Make the Potatoes Extra Crispy?
Make sure to dry the potatoes well before roasting and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Roasting at a high temperature (425°F) and flipping them halfway through helps achieve a crispy exterior and tender inside.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can roast the potatoes and cook the steak bites separately a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat the potatoes in the oven and steak bites in a skillet with a little butter to refresh the flavors.
What Can I Serve Alongside This Dish?
This hearty dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or sautéed greens to balance the rich garlic butter flavors and add some freshness to your plate.