Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy, tender chunks of steak with golden, crispy potatoes all tossed in rich, buttery garlic sauce. The steak bites are perfectly seared to lock in the flavor, while the potatoes add a satisfying crunch that makes every bite so good. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that feels a little special without needing a bunch of fancy ingredients.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. These steak bites cook up quickly, and the crispy potatoes add that nice little extra crunch that everyone appreciates. The garlic butter gives it a warm, comforting taste that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. I always try to use fresh garlic to get the best flavor, and sometimes I toss in a little parsley for a pop of color.
For serving, I like to keep it easy and just pile the steak and potatoes onto a plate with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad. It’s perfect for dinner any night of the week, especially when friends come over because it’s both tasty and pretty quick to pull together. I always find that leftovers taste just as good, if not better, warmed up the next day. This meal never fails to make me smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I recommend sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful bites. If these aren’t available, top sirloin or even skirt steak can work. Just cut against the grain for tenderness.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold are great for crispiness and buttery flavor. Russet potatoes are a good substitute but may need extra oil for crisping.
Butter & Garlic: Unsalted butter and fresh garlic bring richness and aroma. You can swap butter with olive oil for a lighter version but butter really adds to the flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note—if unavailable, regular paprika works, or a pinch of chili powder for warmth. Thyme or rosemary enhance earthiness but are optional.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, chives or cilantro can be a good, fresh-tasting swap.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes Every Time?
Crispy potatoes are the magic sidekick here. Follow these simple steps for a golden, crunchy texture:
- Cut potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Toss them well with oil and spices to create a light coating that crisps up.
- Roast at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) so they brown nicely.
- Flip them once halfway through cooking to crisp all sides.
- Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet so air can circulate and crisp the potatoes.
Also, letting the potatoes dry after washing helps prevent sogginess. I like to pat them dry before tossing with oil. This little step makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like using a large one to give the potatoes plenty of room to get crispy without overcrowding.
- Large skillet – a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron works best for searing the steak and making the garlic butter sauce.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for tossing potatoes with oil and spices before roasting.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for flipping potatoes and steak bites in the skillet.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise seasoning and butter portions.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the steak for chicken breast or shrimp to change up the protein. They cook quickly and soak up the garlic butter nicely.
- Add sautéed onions or bell peppers along with the potatoes for extra sweetness and color.
- Stir in a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top just before serving for extra flavor.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a mild heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
For the Crispy Potatoes:
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 45 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep, 25-30 minutes for roasting the potatoes, and 10-15 minutes for cooking and combining the steak bites with the crispy potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Roast the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the halved or quartered potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme or rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
2. Cook the Steak Bites:
While the potatoes are roasting, season your steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces in a single layer (do this in batches if necessary so the pan isn’t crowded). Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking (medium rare to medium is great!). Remove the steak bites to a plate.
3. Make Garlic Butter Sauce and Combine:
Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes if using, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Return the steak bites and roasted potatoes to the skillet, tossing everything together so the garlic butter sauce coats every piece. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld. Remove from heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve right away and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the steak completely before cooking to ensure even searing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method in a sealed bag.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can roast the potatoes and cook the steak bites separately ahead of time. When ready to serve, toss them together with garlic butter in the skillet to reheat and combine flavors.
Are There Any Good Substitutions for Baby Potatoes?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great too. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even roasting and crispiness.
