Pin
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes is a hearty dish that transforms classic steakhouse flavors into a comforting weeknight dinner. Each bite delivers tender steak, crispy potatoes, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce—all with minimal fuss and cleanup.
When I first made this dish, my family hovered by the stove waiting for the steak bites to be ready. Now it is the number one comfort meal at our table because every time that garlicky butter hits the hot pan it just feels like home.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Butter: This coats every potato and steak piece for richness. Choose unsalted so you control the salt level.
- Olive oil: Helps the potatoes and steak brown without scorching the butter. Go for extra virgin for best flavor.
- Dried thyme: Brings earthy depth and pairs perfectly with steak and potatoes. Check the date on your dried herbs for maximum freshness.
- Salt and pepper: The foundation for bold steak flavor. Always use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for best results.
- Baby potatoes: Go for small yellow or red potatoes. Their thin skins crisp up nicely and add nutty taste.
- Sirloin steak: Known for tenderness and balanced marbling. Cut into bite size pieces for even cooking. Opt for fresh steak with bright color and little excess moisture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced makes all the difference. Look for firm cloves without green sprouts.
- Parsley: Fresh leaves add a bright finish and a pop of color. Choose vibrant green bunches without wilted stems.
How to Make It
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by cutting the baby potatoes into halves or quarters so each piece is about the same size. Toss the potatoes in a bowl with melted butter, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper so every piece is evenly coated.
- Sauté the Potatoes:
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated potatoes in a single flat layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about eight to ten minutes so they form a crisp crust, then turn and cook another eight minutes until deeply golden and tender inside. Remove potatoes and set aside.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Return the skillet to medium high and add one more tablespoon of butter. Lay the sirloin steak pieces in a single layer without crowding. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let them sear for two to three minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove and set next to the potatoes.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Lower the stove to medium low. Add the last tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then add all the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until the garlic just starts to turn golden and smells aromatic. Do not let the garlic brown too much.
- Bring It All Together:
- Return both the crispy potatoes and steak bites to the hot pan. Gently toss so every piece is slicked in hot garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve straight from the skillet or plate up as desired.
Butter is my not so secret ingredient here. It creates a silky sauce and brings everything together in one glorious bite. There is something special about scooping up crispy potato and tender steak with that cloak of buttery garlic. Each time I make this for family Sunday suppers it just vanishes from the platter in minutes.
Flavor Boosters
Try infusing your butter with a sprig of rosemary or tossing in a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth. Finishing with a squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish and a sprinkle of flaky salt adds just the right crunch at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your steak and potatoes as is for a filling dinner, or round it out with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. Warm rolls or crusty sourdough are perfect for soaking up every bit of garlic butter. A tangy dipping sauce on the side or fresh lemon juice can offer a bright finishing touch.
Creative Twists
Swap the sirloin for ribeye or strip steak, or try chicken breast or portobello mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian version. Add asparagus, carrots, or bell peppers for a seasonal spin, or switch parsley for fresh rosemary in autumn for a woodsy note. Use whatever baby potatoes are at peak freshness.
This cozy meal turns even an ordinary Thursday into something memorable. Every bite is warm, comforting, and loaded with flavor—just the kind of dinner that vanishes fast.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use different cuts of steak?
Yes, ribeye or strip steak can be substituted for sirloin. Choose well-marbled cuts for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy?
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron and cook the potatoes over medium heat with olive oil before adding butter to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- → Is peeling the potatoes necessary?
No, baby potatoes have thin skins that crisp up nicely and add extra flavor and nutrients when cooked.
- → What skillet works best for cooking?
A large cast iron or stainless steel skillet provides even heat and the best sear for both steak and potatoes.
- → Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, vegan butter or olive oil can replace butter, slightly changing the flavor while keeping the dish delicious.