If you crave a dinner that’s both deeply comforting and utterly satisfying, Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes might just become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, caramelized steak morsels bathed in rich garlic butter, paired with golden, crispy potatoes oozing with cheddar and Parmesan—the kind of meal that’s equally suited for a weeknight treat or showing off at your next dinner party. The blend of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for just one more bite… guaranteed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes such a standout is how a handful of everyday ingredients can create something truly special. Each component plays a starring role, from the rich beef to the creamy potatoes and vibrant herbs, turning dinner into an experience.
- Sirloin steak (1 ½ lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes): Tender and flavorful, this is the best cut for melt-in-your-mouth steak bites.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp, divided): Adds richness and helps with both crisping potatoes and perfect steak searing.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp): Forms the base of the irresistible garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses every bite with deep, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh thyme (1 tsp): Offers an herby, earthy note that complements both steak and potatoes.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors.
- Baby potatoes (2 lbs): Their creamy centers and crisp exteriors are made for smashing and roasting.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Gives the smashed potatoes their melty-gooey allure.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a salty, savory punch and loads of texture.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Sprinkled on top, it adds a welcome freshness and pop of color.
- Sour cream (for serving, optional): A cool, creamy complement to every crispy, savory bite.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil and Smash the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baby potatoes in a pot of generously salted water, bringing them to a boil and cooking for 15–20 minutes until perfectly fork-tender. After draining, set the potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently flatten each one with the bottom of a glass. This is where the magic happens—smashed potatoes mean more crispy edges!
Step 2: Season and Roast the Potatoes
Drizzle your smashed potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then shower them liberally with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan evenly over the tops. Pop the tray in the oven for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and the potatoes have taken on a crunchy, golden crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Steak Bites
While the potatoes get crispy, pat your steak cubes dry for the best sear. Generously season them with salt and pepper. Heat the last tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the steak bites in a single, uncrowded layer. Sear them for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping just once to build up that irresistible caramelized crust. Remove them to a plate when they’re just done to your liking.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter
Lower the skillet to medium and, with the steak resting, melt the unsalted butter in the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring constantly just until the garlic is golden and fragrant. Those pan juices will become the base of a decadent sauce!
Step 5: Finish the Steak Bites
Add the steak bites back to the skillet and stir them gently to soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness. Everything gets gloriously coated, so every bite bursts with flavor. Serve the steak bites immediately, spooning extra sauce over the top if you like.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Garnishes
Finish off the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes with a shower of fresh chopped parsley for brightness and a dollop of sour cream for that cool, creamy contrast. If you really love that steakhouse look, a little extra cracked black pepper on top never hurts!
Side Dishes
This duo is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out your meal with sides like a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlicky sautéed green beans. They add freshness and a touch of color, creating an even more inviting plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes look gorgeous on a rustic wooden board, garnished with extra herbs. You can also serve the steak bites in little cast iron pans with the potatoes alongside, or even skewer the steak for a party-ready appetizer plate. Get creative and make it fit your style!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let everything cool completely before storing. Place steak bites and potatoes in separate airtight containers and keep refrigerated; they’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days without losing too much of their texture or flavor.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze both the steak and potatoes, though the potatoes will be softer after thawing. Wrap portions individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label and date for easy planning!
Reheating
To revive that fresh-cooked magic, lay the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F oven until crisp, about 10 minutes. The steak bites do best reheated gently in a skillet with a knob of butter, just until warmed through—this keeps them juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is affordable and tender, ribeye or New York strip will make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes even more luxurious. Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum juiciness.
Do I need to peel the baby potatoes?
No peeling necessary! The skins get deliciously crispy and add a rustic look and extra nutrition. Simply give them a good scrub before boiling.
What’s the secret to super crispy smashed potatoes?
Thoroughly drain and dry the potatoes before smashing, and make sure to use enough oil. Giving them plenty of space on the baking sheet is key—crowding leads to soggy spots!
Can I add other cheeses to the potatoes?
Definitely! While cheddar and Parmesan are classic, feel free to mix in mozzarella for melty stretchiness, or pepper jack for heat. Just avoid very soft cheeses that melt into a puddle.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any toppings or store-bought ingredients (like sour cream) are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about the combination of juicy steak bites, melty cheese, and golden potatoes—and Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes truly deliver on every front. Gather your friends or family, whip up this recipe, and enjoy the smiles that follow. You’re going to love every bite!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender sirloin steak bites seared to perfection in a garlic butter sauce, served with crispy and cheesy smashed potatoes. This easy-to-make dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Potatoes: Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain, place on a baking sheet, smash with a glass, drizzle with olive oil, season, and top with cheeses. Roast until crispy.
- Cook Steak Bites: Season steak cubes, sear in a skillet, then coat with garlic butter sauce.
- Serve: Garnish steak bites with parsley and serve alongside cheesy smashed potatoes topped with sour cream.
Notes
- Let steak rest before cooking for better results.
- Choose Yukon gold or red baby potatoes for ideal texture.
- Enhance garlic butter with Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion with potatoes
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
