Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak
- 2 ribeye, sirloin, or strip steaks (about 250–300 g each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or fresh herbs)
For the Roasted Potatoes
- 700 g (1½ lb) potatoes (Yukon Gold, Russet, or baby potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
Choosing the Best Steak Cut
The quality and cut of steak play a major role in the final dish.
Best Cuts for This Recipe
- Ribeye – Rich, juicy, and full of marbling
- Sirloin – Leaner but still flavorful
- New York Strip – Balanced tenderness and taste
- Tenderloin (Filet) – Very tender, mild flavor
Tip: Look for steaks at least 2–3 cm thick. Thin steaks overcook too quickly and don’t develop a good crust.
Preparing the Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). A hot oven is essential for crispy potatoes.
Step 2: Wash and Cut
Wash the potatoes well. Peel if desired, but leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor.
- Cut large potatoes into even chunks
- Halve or quarter baby potatoes
Uniform size ensures even roasting.
Seasoning the Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl. Add:
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Dried herbs
Toss until every potato piece is well coated.
Roasting the Potatoes
Step 1: Arrange Properly
Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding.
Step 2: Roast
Place in the oven and roast for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Step 3: Crisp Finish
For extra crispiness:
- Turn the oven to broil for the last 3–5 minutes
- Watch closely to avoid burning
The potatoes should be golden, crispy, and fragrant.
Preparing the Steak
Step 1: Bring to Room Temperature
Remove the steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
Step 2: Season Generously
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking the Steak (Pan-Seared Method)
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over high heat until very hot.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Place steaks in the pan. Do not move them.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare
- A deep brown crust should form
Step 3: Add Butter and Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and herbs.
Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks repeatedly for 1–2 minutes.
Steak Doneness Guide
- Rare: 50°C / 120°F
- Medium-rare: 55°C / 130°F
- Medium: 60°C / 140°F
- Medium-well: 65°C / 150°F
- Well-done: 70°C / 160°F
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Resting the Steak (Very Important)
Transfer the steaks to a plate and rest for 5–10 minutes.
Why this matters:
- Juices redistribute
- Steak stays juicy
- Texture improves
Never skip this step.
Plating the Dish
Arrange roasted potatoes on one side of the plate. Place the steak beside them.
Optional finishing touches:
- A small pat of herb butter
- Fresh chopped parsley
- A squeeze of lemon for brightness
Flavor Variations
Garlic Butter Steak
- Add extra butter and minced garlic
- Finish with parsley
Spicy Steak
- Add chili flakes or cayenne to seasoning
- Serve with spicy sauce
Mediterranean Style
- Add oregano and lemon zest to potatoes
- Serve with yogurt or tzatziki
Steakhouse Version
- Serve with sautéed mushrooms
- Add creamy peppercorn sauce
Sauce Ideas (Optional)
- Creamy pepper sauce
- Garlic herb butter
- Chimichurri
- Mushroom gravy
- Dijon mustard sauce
What to Serve With Steak & Potatoes
- Green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted asparagus
- Grilled vegetables
- Fresh bread
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking cold steak
- Overcrowding the pan
- Overcooking the steak
- Not resting the meat
- Under-seasoning potatoes
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days
- Reheat steak gently in a pan with butter
- Reheat potatoes in the oven for crispiness
Final Thoughts
Steak and roasted potatoes is proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care, create extraordinary meals. With a perfectly seared steak, crispy herb-roasted potatoes, and just the right seasoning, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction every single time.