Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes is a simple, comforting dish that combines tender, flavorful chunks of steak with potatoes that are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The garlic butter sauce ties everything together with rich, buttery goodness and a hint of garlic that makes every bite satisfying and cozy.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take forever to cook. The steak bites cook quickly in a hot pan, and while they’re sizzling away, the potatoes get nice and crispy. I usually add a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness—it makes it look as good as it tastes!
This dish always brings people together around the table because it’s easy to share and so filling. I often serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to keep things fresh and balanced. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but is really straightforward to make any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is tender and cooks quickly, perfect for bite-sized pieces. If sirloin isn’t available, try ribeye or strip steak for more marbling and flavor. For a leaner option, top round works too, but watch the cooking time.
Baby Potatoes: Their small size crisps nicely. You can swap with fingerling potatoes or regular potatoes cut into similar-sized pieces. To get them extra crispy, drying them well before roasting is key.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. You can use ghee or olive oil if you want less dairy. Fresh garlic gives the best aroma here; powdered garlic won’t have the same impact.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes Every Time?
The secret is dry potatoes, high heat, and space to roast.
- After washing, pat potatoes totally dry with a towel.
- Toss them well with oil and seasonings so they get coated evenly.
- Spread potatoes on a baking sheet without crowding — too close and they steam instead of crisp.
- Roast at a hot 425°F (220°C) and stir halfway for even browning.
This method makes potatoes golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect to serve alongside juicy steak bites. I like to add paprika or rosemary for extra flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan – I prefer this because it heats evenly and can go from stove to oven, which helps get the potatoes super crispy.
- Mixing bowls – handy for tossing the potatoes with oil and seasonings before roasting.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – useful if you want to check doneness of the steak, especially if you like it cooked to a specific temperature.
- Spatula or tongs – great for turning the potatoes and steak bites without breaking them apart.
- Baking sheet – for roasting the potatoes in the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- **Mushrooms:** Toss sliced mushrooms with the potatoes before roasting for an earthy, juicy addition. Works well if you’re a mushroom fan.
- **Spicy kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter for some heat, perfect for those who like a little spice.
- **Herb boost:** Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley—add more at the end for a burst of fresh aroma and flavor.
- **Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled blue cheese over the steak bites right before serving for a salty, tangy finish.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this tasty dish ready takes about 10 minutes of prep plus around 30 minutes of cooking time. That includes roasting the potatoes until crispy and searing the steak bites perfectly in the pan. All together, plan on about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Potatoes:
Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme or rosemary if you like, plus salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
2. Season and Sear the Steak Bites:
While potatoes roast, pat steak pieces dry with paper towels so they brown well. Season with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in one layer (don’t crowd the pan) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter and Finish:
Turn heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. Return steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook together for another minute so the flavors blend.
4. Serve:
Either add the crispy potatoes to the skillet and toss everything gently, or plate potatoes and steak separately. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and thyme sprigs if you have them, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to ensure a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can parboil or partially roast the potatoes earlier, then finish roasting them just before serving for extra crispiness. This saves time on busy days!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover steak bites and potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispness and flavor.
What Cuts of Steak Work Best?
Sirloin is great for this recipe due to its tender texture and quick cooking. Ribeye, strip steak, or even tenderloin cubes also work well if you want a richer flavor or a leaner cut.