Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of succulent steak bites infused with garlic butter and crispy, cheesy smashed potatoes. This dish is the perfect harmony of indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees rave reviews. Packed with flavor, this dish is also surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a household favorite and how you can master it in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into cubes
Tender and flavorful, sirloin is the star of this dish. The bite-sized pieces ensure quick and even cooking.
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the steak with a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the butter.
4 tablespoons butter
The key to luscious, golden steak bites, butter enriches every bite with a velvety finish.
1 teaspoon salt
Enhances the natural flavors of the steak.
1 teaspoon black pepper
Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dish.
For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
1.5 pounds baby potatoes
Their small size and creamy texture make them ideal for smashing and crisping.
3 tablespoons olive oil
Helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Melted cheddar brings gooey, tangy goodness to every bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
A touch of garlic enhances the potatoes without overpowering them.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Adds a hint of smoky warmth and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For a fresh, herby finish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
A hot oven is key to achieving crispy potatoes.
2. Boil the potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
3. Smash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to gently smash each potato.
4. Season and bake: Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
5. Add cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with shredded cheddar, and return to bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Cooking the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
1. Season the steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt until bubbling. Add the steak bites in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Add the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Finish with butter: Add the remaining butter to the skillet, tossing the steak bites to coat them evenly. Remove from heat.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Quick and versatile: The entire meal comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Unbeatable flavor: The garlic butter steak bites are rich and savory, while the cheesy smashed potatoes provide a crispy, creamy contrast.
Crowd-pleaser: These familiar yet elevated flavors appeal to everyone at the table.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish
1. Use a hot skillet for the steak: A searing-hot pan ensures a crispy, caramelized crust on the steak bites.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the steak in batches prevents steaming and ensures even browning.
3. Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes are best for smashing due to their creamy texture and small size.
4. Customize the cheese: Try Parmesan or Gruyère for a gourmet twist on the potatoes.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but for a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with:
A crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread to soak up every last drop of butter.
A glass of bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.
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Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is a dish that brings the flavors of a steakhouse to your home kitchen. The tender steak, infused with garlic butter, pairs perfectly with crispy, cheesy potatoes, creating a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy techniques to make something truly special. Give it a try tonight and discover why it’s destined to become a family favorite!
