Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a hearty meal, especially one that combines tender steak and cheesy potatoes. Recently, I whipped up these Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with Cheesy Smashed Potatoes for my family, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. The rich, savory flavors of the steak combined with the creamy, cheesy potatoes made for a satisfying dinner that left everyone asking for seconds. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1 ½ lbs steak (ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:

• 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Smash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato.
4. Season and Bake: Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden.
5. Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve hot.

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

1. Season the Steak: Season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Combine: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until well coated. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside the cheesy smashed potatoes.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 650 calories per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites on a plate next to the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives for an extra pop of color.
• Offer a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Choosing the Steak: Ribeye is recommended for its rich flavor and tenderness, but sirloin or tenderloin work well too.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the steak, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and a nice crust.
3. Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor in the smashed potatoes.
4. Potato Alternatives: You can use regular russet potatoes; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute, and consider using a dairy-free cheese for the potatoes.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
• Crispy Bacon: For a richer flavor, mix crispy bacon bits into the cheesy smashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the steak.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the meal.
• Bread Option: Consider adding garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra garlic butter.

Freezing and Storage

• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The steak bites can be frozen after cooking, but the potatoes are best fresh. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen steak?

• Yes, but it’s best to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking for even results.

1. What if I don’t have baby potatoes?

• You can use larger potatoes; just cut them into smaller chunks and adjust cooking times accordingly.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• You can prepare the steak bites and potatoes ahead of time, but they are best served fresh for optimal texture.

1. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

• You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter, but the sauce may be less rich.

1. How do I know when the steak is done?

• Use a meat thermometer; 130°F (54°C) is medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) is medium.

1. What other vegetables can I add to the potatoes?

• Consider mixing in roasted garlic or even broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.

1. How do I keep the smashed potatoes crispy?

• Ensure they are well-drained after boiling and use high heat for baking.

1. Can I use different herbs?

• Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even oregano can enhance the flavor profile.

1. Is this meal kid-friendly?

• Yes, the flavors are savory and appealing to most children.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture, or use a microwave for quick heating.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with Cheesy Smashed Potatoes is a delightful combination that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere at the dinner table. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this savory meal that promises to impress!

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