Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this dish.
First, it’s quick. Steak bites cook in minutes.
Second, it uses simple ingredients. Nothing complicated or fancy.
Third, the textures are incredible. Crispy potatoes with juicy steak is always a winning combination.
Fourth, it’s customizable. You can add sauces, herbs, cheese, or spices to make it your own.
And finally, it’s pure comfort food. Warm, buttery, and filling — the kind of meal everyone gets excited about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the steak bites
- 600 g (1.3 lb) sirloin or ribeye steak
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the smashed potatoes
- 1 kg (2 lb) baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley
Optional toppings
- Grated parmesan
- Chili flakes
- Lemon juice
- Garlic sauce
Choose the Right Steak
The cut of steak matters.
Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak work best because they’re tender and cook quickly.
Avoid tough cuts like chuck or stew meat.
Cut the steak into even cubes, about 1 to 1½ inches. Equal sizes help them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Pat the meat dry with paper towels before cooking. This is very important for getting that beautiful brown crust.
Dry steak = better sear.
Boil the Potatoes First
Start with the potatoes since they take longer.
Place baby potatoes in a large pot with salted water.
Bring to a boil and cook for about 15–20 minutes until fork tender.
They should be soft inside but not falling apart.
Drain and let them steam dry for a few minutes. This helps them crisp better in the oven.
Smash and Season
Place potatoes on a lined baking tray.
Using the bottom of a glass or spoon, gently press each potato until flattened.
Don’t mash too hard — you want them smashed, not broken.
Drizzle with olive oil and melted butter.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
This step adds tons of flavor.
Roast Until Golden and Crispy
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Flip halfway for even browning.
You’ll know they’re ready when:
Edges are crispy
Tops are golden brown
Inside is fluffy
Optional: sprinkle parmesan during the last 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
These potatoes are seriously addictive.
Season the Steak
While the potatoes roast, season the steak cubes.
Toss with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Keep seasoning simple — the garlic butter will do the rest of the magic.
Let the meat sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking.
Cold steak doesn’t sear well.
Sear for Maximum Flavor
Heat a large skillet over high heat.
Add olive oil and let it get very hot.
Place steak cubes in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Cook 1–2 minutes per side without moving them too much.
This creates that golden crust.
Cook in batches if needed.
Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing.
Add Garlic Butter
Once steak is browned, reduce heat to medium.
Add butter and minced garlic.
Let the butter melt and spoon it over the steak.
The garlic butter coats every piece with rich flavor.
Cook just 1–2 minutes more.
Don’t overcook — steak bites should stay juicy.
Finish with fresh parsley.
Assemble the Plate
Place crispy smashed potatoes on one side.
Add the garlic butter steak bites next to them.
Spoon extra garlic butter from the pan over everything.
Sprinkle parsley for freshness.
The plate will look rustic, golden, and absolutely irresistible.
Texture and Flavor Experience
This dish is all about contrast.
The steak is juicy, tender, and buttery.
The potatoes are crispy outside and soft inside.
The garlic butter adds richness and aroma.
The herbs add freshness.
Every bite feels hearty, warm, and satisfying.
It’s simple food done perfectly.
Tips for Perfect Steak Bites
Pat steak dry
Use high heat
Don’t overcrowd pan
Cook quickly
Rest meat 2–3 minutes after cooking
These small details make a big difference.
Fun Variations
Want to switch things up?
Try:
Add mushrooms to the pan
Add caramelized onions
Top potatoes with cheese
Use Cajun seasoning
Add spicy chili flakes
Drizzle with garlic aioli
Serve with creamy sauce
You can customize endlessly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in fridge for 3 days.
Reheat potatoes in oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Reheat steak quickly in a pan to avoid drying out.
Avoid microwave for best texture.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
Green salad
Roasted vegetables
Garlic bread
Rice
Steamed broccoli
Fresh lemon squeeze
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter steak bites with crispy smashed potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can create incredible meals.
It’s hearty, flavorful, easy, and feels like comfort food at its best. You get restaurant-style results without complicated steps.