Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is the kind of recipe that brings comfort and indulgence to any meal. It’s a simple, yet impressive dish that combines tender, juicy steak bites with crispy smashed potatoes topped with melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or just looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes.

The appeal of this dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The steak bites are seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, offering a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Paired with the cheesy, golden-brown smashed potatoes that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Its versatility also makes it a hit — it can be served as a hearty main dish or as a bite-sized appetizer for gatherings.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity combined with bold flavors. The steak bites, cooked in garlic butter, provide a richness that’s perfectly complemented by the crispy, cheesy potatoes. The use of minimal ingredients that most people have in their kitchen — like garlic, butter, and cheddar cheese — means that this dish is both accessible and quick to prepare. The combination of buttery steak and crunchy potatoes also creates a satisfying contrast in every bite.

Why Choose This Recipe?

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal. With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find, ensuring that anyone can make this dish, even on short notice. Additionally, it’s versatile enough to suit different occasions — whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are sure to impress.

Ingredients Overview

For the Steak Bites:

1. Sirloin Steak
   Sirloin steak is an excellent choice for this dish because it strikes a great balance between tenderness and flavor. It’s relatively lean compared to other cuts but still offers a juicy, beefy taste when cooked properly. Sirloin also sears beautifully, developing a delicious crust on the outside while remaining tender inside, especially when cooked to medium doneness. Cutting the steak into bite-sized cubes ensures even cooking and allows the steak to absorb the rich garlic butter sauce.
2. Butter and Garlic
   Butter and garlic form the base of the sauce for the steak bites, giving the dish its signature richness. Butter, when melted and slightly browned, adds a deep, nutty flavor that complements the natural taste of the beef. Garlic, on the other hand, brings a fragrant, savory note that enhances the steak without overpowering it. The key is to sauté the garlic until it’s just golden and aromatic, ensuring it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
3. Seasoning: Salt, Pepper, and Parsley
   Salt and pepper are essential to bring out the natural flavors of the steak. Salt enhances the taste, while pepper adds a subtle spice that cuts through the richness of the butter. Fresh parsley, sprinkled over the steak bites as a garnish, adds a bright, herby freshness that balances the heavier flavors in the dish.

For the Smashed Potatoes:

1. Baby Potatoes
   Baby potatoes are ideal for smashed potatoes due to their small size and tender texture. When boiled, they become soft and creamy inside while their thin skins crisp up beautifully when smashed and cooked on the griddle. The smaller size of baby potatoes makes them easy to handle and ensures they develop a satisfying crunch when smashed and fried.
2. Cheddar Cheese
   Cheddar cheese, especially sharp cheddar, brings a bold, tangy flavor that pairs well with the mild taste of potatoes. It melts smoothly, creating a bubbly, golden layer of cheesy goodness on top of the crispy potatoes. You can also opt for aged cheddar for an even deeper, more complex flavor.
3. Olive Oil
   Olive oil is key for getting those crispy edges on the smashed potatoes. It helps them brown evenly on the griddle, creating a crunchy exterior while keeping the insides soft and fluffy. Additionally, olive oil adds a light, fruity flavor that complements the potatoes and the richness of the cheddar.
4. Salt, Pepper, and Chives
   Simple seasoning with salt and pepper brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese. Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor, which enhances the dish’s complexity without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Prepare the Smashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes Until Tender
   Start by boiling the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. This step is crucial because you want the potatoes to be soft enough to smash but not falling apart. To check for doneness, insert a fork into a potato; it should slide in easily. Overcooking can make the potatoes mushy and harder to crisp later on.
2. Cool Slightly, Then Smash the Potatoes
   Once the potatoes are done boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly for easier handling. Place them on a flat surface or directly on the griddle, and using a spatula or the back of a fork, gently press down on each potato until it flattens. Smashing the potatoes creates more surface area, allowing them to get crispier as they cook. The uneven texture adds to the final crunch.
3. Griddle Setup and Cooking Tips
   Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle olive oil generously over the surface. Add the smashed potatoes in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to keep an eye on the heat; too high, and the potatoes can burn, too low, and they won’t crisp up properly.
4. Adding Cheese
   Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each potato. Continue cooking for another minute or two, until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. The cheese should form a slightly crispy, golden layer on top. Garnish the potatoes with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

1. Melting the Butter and Sautéing Garlic
   In the same skillet or griddle used for the potatoes (or in a separate pan), melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter starts to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can create a bitter taste that will overpower the dish.
2. Cooking the Steak
   Add the cubed sirloin steak to the pan, ensuring that each piece makes contact with the hot surface for a proper sear. Season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning the steak cubes until they are browned on all sides. For medium doneness, cook for about 8-10 minutes in total. If you prefer your steak more or less done, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Tips on Handling the Steak
   For best results, let the steak rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the meat to cook more evenly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the steak to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook the steak in batches to maintain high heat in the pan.
4. Garnishing with Parsley
   Once the steak bites are cooked to your liking, remove them from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color that brightens the rich flavors of the garlic butter.

Cooking Tips and Recipe Customizations

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Bites

1. How to Choose the Right Steak
   • Sirloin: Sirloin is a fantastic option for steak bites because it’s flavorful, affordable, and cooks quickly without drying out. It offers a good balance between tenderness and leanness.
   • Ribeye: For a more indulgent option, ribeye offers extra marbling and a richer, juicier texture. Its higher fat content gives it incredible flavor, though it may be slightly pricier.
   • Filet Mignon: Filet is the most tender of the three, with a buttery texture, but it’s also the most expensive. If you’re looking for tenderness over bold flavor, filet is an excellent choice.
2. Importance of High Heat for Searing
   High heat is essential for getting a perfect sear on steak bites. It locks in juices by caramelizing the exterior while leaving the inside tender. To achieve this, preheat the skillet until it’s very hot before adding the steak. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the steak will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less flavorful crust.
3. Cooking Times for Different Doneness Levels
   • Rare: Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes total (1-1.5 minutes per side). The interior should be red and soft.
   • Medium: Cook for 8-10 minutes total, turning frequently for even browning. The steak should have a warm pink center.
   • Well-Done: Cook for 12-15 minutes total. The steak will be completely browned through with no pink.

Secrets to Perfect Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

1. Best Techniques for Smashing Potatoes Without Them Falling Apart
   After boiling the potatoes, let them cool slightly so they firm up a bit before smashing. Use a flat spatula or the bottom of a glass to gently press down each potato. Apply slow, even pressure to avoid breaking them apart.
2. How to Ensure Even Crisping
   To get potatoes crispy on both sides, cook them in plenty of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow them to cook undisturbed for several minutes before flipping. Flip gently with a spatula to keep them intact. Make sure the oil is hot enough to start crisping the potatoes right away but not so hot that they burn.
3. Options for Cheese Substitutions
   • Mozzarella: Offers a milder, stretchy texture and works well if you prefer a less sharp flavor.
   • Gouda: Provides a nutty, creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.
   • Parmesan: For a slightly saltier, more sophisticated flavor, parmesan can be sprinkled on top either alone or in combination with cheddar.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

1. Swapping Sirloin for Other Cuts or Proteins
   • Other Beef Cuts: Try using ribeye, flank, or filet mignon depending on your preference for fattiness or tenderness.
   • Alternative Proteins: You can easily swap steak for chicken breast cubes or shrimp for a lighter option. Just adjust cooking times—chicken needs about 5-6 minutes per side, while shrimp cooks in just 2-3 minutes.
2. Using Different Herbs and Seasonings
   To give the dish a flavor twist, consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the butter sauce. These herbs pair beautifully with garlic and steak, adding earthy, aromatic notes. You could also incorporate a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
3. Dairy-Free and Low-Carb Versions
   • Dairy-Free: Swap butter for plant-based alternatives like olive oil or vegan butter. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
   • Low-Carb: Instead of potatoes, use cauliflower for a similar texture without the carbs. Roast or steam the cauliflower, then lightly smash and crisp it in olive oil for a low-carb alternative to smashed potatoes.

Pairing Suggestions and Nutritional Information

Perfect Side Dishes and Drinks to Pair with the Dish

1. Suggested Side Dishes
   • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus. These vegetables complement the richness of the garlic butter steak bites and add a healthy, balanced touch to the meal.
   • Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the rich and hearty steak and potatoes. Adding a bit of citrus or a balsamic dressing will help cut through the richness.
   • Garlic Bread: If you want to add a carb-heavy side, garlic bread works perfectly, echoing the garlic flavor in the steak bites while offering a crunchy, chewy contrast.
2. Drink Pairings
   • Wines: Full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot are great companions for steak due to their rich tannins and bold flavors that pair well with red meat.
   • Craft Beers: Dark ales or stouts, with their deep roasted malt flavors, can enhance the savory garlic butter and beef. If you prefer a lighter beer, a well-balanced IPA offers enough bitterness to complement the richness without overpowering it.
   • Refreshing Lemonade: For non-alcoholic options, a crisp, homemade lemonade or sparkling water with lemon slices provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the dish.

Nutritional Information

This dish is hearty and nutrient-dense due to its combination of steak, butter, and potatoes. Here’s a general estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 kcal
• Protein: 35-40g (from steak and cheese)
• Fats: 35-45g (from butter, olive oil, and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g (mostly from the potatoes)

Potential Dietary Considerations

• Keto-Friendly: By making minor adjustments, such as replacing the potatoes with cauliflower or a low-carb vegetable, this dish becomes keto-friendly. Swap butter for ghee for a healthier fat option.
• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• High-Protein Meal: With over 35g of protein per serving, this meal is an excellent option for those looking to meet their daily protein needs, especially after workouts.

How to Make the Dish Fit Various Diets

• Low-Calorie Option: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of butter used for the steak and substitute a lower-fat cheese or reduce the cheese on the potatoes.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free alternatives, and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese to maintain flavor without the dairy content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
   Yes, you can prep both the steak and potatoes in advance. For the steak, cut it into cubes, season it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also boil the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply smash and fry the potatoes and cook the steak bites. Reheat them quickly on the stovetop before serving to maintain their crispy texture and juiciness.
2. What Other Cheeses Can I Use for Smashed Potatoes?
   If you prefer to use a different cheese, mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan are excellent alternatives. Mozzarella provides a mild, stretchy texture, gouda adds a creamy, smoky flavor, and parmesan offers a nutty, sharp taste. You can also experiment with combining cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
3. How Do I Reheat the Leftovers?
   To reheat steak bites, use a skillet over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil to revive the flavors and avoid drying out the steak. For the smashed potatoes, place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the potatoes soggy and the steak tough.
4. Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
   Yes, you can use frozen potatoes for this recipe. Simply thaw them before boiling. However, keep in mind that frozen potatoes may not achieve the same crispiness as fresh ones due to their higher moisture content. Drain them well and pat them dry before smashing to get the best results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Why Are My Steak Bites Tough?
   Tough steak bites are often the result of overcooking. Make sure to use high heat to quickly sear the steak, cooking for about 8-10 minutes total for medium doneness. Also, allow the steak to rest at room temperature before cooking and let it rest after cooking to lock in the juices. Avoid cutting into the steak immediately after cooking, as this can cause the juices to escape, resulting in drier, tougher meat.
2. How Do I Prevent My Potatoes from Becoming Mushy?
   To avoid mushy potatoes, make sure you don’t overboil them. Boil until just tender enough to pierce with a fork, but still firm enough to hold their shape. After boiling, let them cool slightly to release excess moisture. When smashing, apply gentle pressure and use medium-high heat on the griddle to crisp the outside while keeping the inside fluffy.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This recipe combines tender garlic butter steak bites with crispy, cheesy smashed potatoes, creating a mouthwatering, savory dish that’s perfect for dinner or gatherings. The richness of the butter and garlic sauce infuses the steak with bold flavors, while the cheesy potatoes provide a crispy, indulgent side. Easy to make and quick to prepare, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into cubes
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Smashed Potatoes:

• 1 lb baby potatoes
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Smashed Potatoes:

1. Boil Potatoes:
   In a large pot, boil baby potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Preheat Griddle:
   Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Smash Potatoes:
   Place the boiled potatoes on the griddle and gently smash each one with a spatula until flat. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook and Add Cheese:
   Cook the smashed potatoes for about 10 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes and cook until the cheese melts and bubbles. Garnish with chopped chives.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

1. Melt Butter:
   In the same griddle or skillet, melt butter over high heat until foamy.
2. Sauté Garlic:
   Add minced garlic to the butter and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Cook Steak:
   Add the cubed sirloin steak to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. For medium doneness, cook for 8-10 minutes. Adjust cooking time for rare or well-done steak as needed.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the steak from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve the garlic butter steak bites alongside the cheesy smashed potatoes on a platter. Enjoy warm.

Notes

• Steak Choice: Sirloin is suggested for its balance of flavor and tenderness, but feel free to substitute with ribeye for more richness or filet mignon for an ultra-tender bite.
• Cheese Substitution: If cheddar cheese isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella for a stretchy, mild topping or gouda for a creamy, smoky finish.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to crisp them on the griddle. Similarly, you can cube and season the steak in advance, keeping it in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat steak bites in a hot skillet for a few minutes and crisp the potatoes in a hot oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes to revive the textures. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can make the potatoes soggy and toughen the steak.