Garlic Steak Bites with Potatoes

This garlic steak bites with potatoes recipe brings together the perfect combination of juicy steak, golden potatoes, and aromatic herbs in one skillet for an easy yet impressive meal. I discovered this recipe when looking for a quick dinner option that still felt special, and it has become my go-to for both weeknight meals and casual entertaining.

I first made this recipe when my husband was craving something hearty but I was short on time. The combination of tender steak and crispy potatoes coated in that buttery garlic herb sauce had everyone asking for seconds. Now it appears on our dinner table at least twice a month.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing the potatoes and creating a flavorful base
• 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes cut into ½-inch pieces chosen for their buttery texture and ability to get crispy edges while staying creamy inside
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor to the potatoes that complements the fresh garlic added later
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste for seasoning both the potatoes and steak
• 1 ¼ pound sirloin steak cut into 1-inch pieces sirloin provides the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor without breaking the bank
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter creates the luxurious sauce that coats everything
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch that makes this dish special
• 1 teaspoon each of chopped fresh thyme rosemary and oregano this herb trio adds complexity and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add potatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Continue cooking for 10-15 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork tender with crispy edges. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Sear the Steak

Turn the heat to high. Season steak pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Allow them to sear undisturbed for a minute to develop a nice crust. Stir and continue cooking until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes total for medium doneness. The high heat is crucial for getting that beautiful caramelization without overcooking the steak.

Create the Garlic Herb Sauce

Add butter, minced garlic, and all the fresh herbs to the skillet with the steak. The butter will melt into a sauce, while the herbs and garlic become fragrant. Add the potatoes back to the pan and toss everything together for 2-3 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to absorb some of the flavorful sauce and warms them back up to serving temperature.

Bookmark

The fresh herbs are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once made it with dried herbs in a pinch, but the vibrant flavor that fresh herbs provide is worth the extra couple of dollars at the grocery store. My family notices the difference immediately when I use fresh thyme and rosemary from our garden.

Getting the Perfect Steak Doneness

Cooking steak bites to perfection requires attention to timing. For medium-rare, cook for just 3-4 minutes total. For medium, aim for 4-5 minutes as the recipe suggests. If you prefer medium-well, add an additional minute but be careful not to overcook as the small pieces can become tough quickly. The steak will continue cooking slightly when you add it back with the butter and herbs, so I always err on the side of less cooking time for the juiciest results.

Potato Perfection Tips

Yukon gold potatoes truly make this dish special with their creamy interiors and ability to get crispy edges. If you substitute russet potatoes, they'll work but will have a fluffier texture. Red potatoes stay firmer and hold their shape well if you prefer that texture. The key with any potato variety is cutting them into consistent sizes so they cook evenly. I find that ½-inch pieces provide the perfect balance between cooking time and texture.

Make It Your Own

This recipe provides an excellent base for customization. Try adding sliced mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking the steak for an earthy dimension. Bell peppers add color and sweetness if added with the potatoes. For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the herbs. I sometimes add a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving for a tangy finish that brightens all the flavors. My personal favorite variation is adding crumbled blue cheese right at the end for a creamy contrast to the savory steak.

Recipe Q&A

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin steak is ideal for this dish as it has good flavor and tenderness without being overly expensive. You could also use ribeye for a richer flavor or strip steak. If using a tougher cut like chuck, consider marinating it first to ensure tenderness.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but you'll need to adjust the quantities. The general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For this dish, use about 1/3 teaspoon each of dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano instead of the 1 teaspoon fresh amounts.

→ How do I know when the steak bites are properly cooked?

For medium-rare steak bites, cook until they're golden brown on the outside but still slightly pink in the center, about 4-5 minutes total over high heat. For medium, cook 1-2 minutes longer. The internal temperature should reach 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served immediately after cooking, you can prep ingredients ahead of time by cutting the steak and potatoes and measuring out the seasonings. If you need to reheat leftovers, do so gently in a skillet with a splash of oil to prevent the steak from overcooking and becoming tough.

→ What can I serve with garlic steak bites and potatoes?

This dish works well as a complete meal on its own, but you can add a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus for extra vegetables. A crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

→ Do I need to use a cast iron skillet?

A cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving the best sear on both the potatoes and steak, but any heavy-bottomed skillet or pan will work. The key is using a pan that retains heat well and is large enough to accommodate all ingredients without overcrowding.