Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes is my answer to the question “what’s for dinner” on those nights when you want something special without a lot of fuss. One skillet, juicy steak, crispy potatoes, and plenty of garlic butter.
I started making this dish on weeknights when I needed something that felt a bit fancy but didn’t require much cleanup. The potatoes get golden and crispy while the steak sears up beautifully, and tossing everything in butter and garlic at the end brings it all together. My family always cleans their plates when this shows up at the table. Let’s get that skillet heating.
What Makes This One-Pan Meal So Special
When I think about reliable weeknight dinners, this one tops my list because it looks impressive but comes together so easily. The combination of textures and that buttery garlic finish make it hard to beat.
- Weeknight dinner ready in 30 minutes from start to finish
- One skillet means minimal cleanup when you’re done
- Budget-friendly steak option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor
- Family-friendly meal that everyone loves without complaint
- Perfect for romantic dinners when you want to impress
- Delivers restaurant-quality results at home every time
Understanding Your Ingredients
Sirloin steak provides great flavor without breaking the bank. I always choose well-marbled steaks cut into bite-sized cubes for quick cooking.
Baby potatoes become perfectly crispy on the outside while staying creamy inside. In my kitchen, I prefer red or gold potatoes halved or quartered.
Olive oil helps crisp the potatoes and sear the steak. Good quality oil makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
Butter creates that rich, glossy coating that makes everything irresistible. Real butter, not margarine, is essential here.
Garlic brings the aromatic punch that defines this dish. Fresh cloves, minced fine, deliver the best flavor.
Paprika adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color to the potatoes. Just one teaspoon is all you need.
Italian herbs contribute a blend of flavors that complement both the steak and potatoes. Dried herbs work perfectly for this simple preparation.
How to Make Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes
Step 1. I’ve found that heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat while you prep ensures the potatoes start cooking right away.
Step 2. Add the potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Through trial and error, I learned they need about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fork-tender.
Step 3. Remove the potatoes and set them aside while you cook the steak. The key I discovered is keeping them warm on a plate loosely covered.
Step 4. Season the steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. My family prefers when I really season them well for maximum flavor.
Step 5. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Betty always reminds me to let the butter melt completely before adding the steak.
Step 6. Sear the steak in a single layer—work in batches if needed—for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Don’t overcook or the steak gets tough.
Step 7. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 8. Return the potatoes to the pan and toss everything together, cooking for 1-2 more minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Keeping This Meal Fresh
I typically store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The steak and potatoes both reheat well, though the steak will be a bit more done the second time around.
For the best texture, I reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with a little oil or butter to bring back those crispy edges on the potatoes. Medium heat works best to warm everything through without overcooking the steak. The microwave is convenient for individual portions, but you’ll lose some of that nice texture.
While you can freeze this for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers, the potato texture may change slightly when thawed. If you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of fresh butter to refresh the flavors.
Perfect Partners for Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes
- Creamy scalloped potatoes makes an excellent companion for those who can’t get enough potatoes
- Fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the garlic butter
- Sheet pan parmesan steak and potatoes offers a variation using similar ingredients
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add color and nutrition
- Garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream provides a creamier sauce option
- Buttered corn on the cob or sautéed spinach rounds out the plate nicely
- Glass of red wine or light sparkling drink complements the meal
FAQs
I recommend ribeye, New York strip, or filet tips as excellent alternatives that cook quickly and stay tender.
To prevent soggy potatoes, cut them into small uniform pieces, don’t overcrowd the pan, and resist stirring too often while they cook.
Many home cooks find success with cooking the potatoes ahead and reheating them while you cook the steak fresh for best results.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden and fork-tender (about 15 minutes), stirring occasionally. Remove and set aside
- Season steak cubes with salt, pepper, and herbs. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Sear steak in a single layer (in batches if needed) for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Don’t overcook
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Return the potatoes to the pan and toss everything together
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot
