About This Recipe
This recipe combines two classic, complementary dishes: pan-seared steak bites and oven-roasted smashed potatoes. The steak is cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with melted cheese. It is a single-meal preparation that requires coordination between stovetop and oven components.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The recipe yields a high-protein meal with a balanced texture profile. The steak bites cook quickly, and the smashed potatoes provide a starchy base. The use of garlic butter as a unifying ingredient creates a consistent flavor profile. The method for smashing the potatoes increases their surface area, resulting in a crispier final product.
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds small gold or red potatoes, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step by Step Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain thoroughly.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle a large baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
- Smash the Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a heavy glass or mug, gently press down on each potato until it flattens but still holds together.
- Season Potatoes: Brush the tops of the smashed potatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the smashed potatoes. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cook the Steak: While the potatoes are baking, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Push the steak bites to one side and add the butter and minced garlic to the empty side. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Add the parsley and stir the entire contents of the skillet to coat the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve: Place the cheesy smashed potatoes on a serving platter. Top with the garlic butter steak bites. Spoon any remaining butter sauce from the skillet over the dish. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
FAQ
What is the best cut of steak to use for steak bites?
Sirloin and ribeye are common choices. Sirloin is a leaner option, while ribeye has more marbling, which can result in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
You can boil the potatoes a day in advance. Store them, drained and covered, in the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature before smashing and baking.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried after boiling and that they are smashed to create enough surface area for crisping. Using enough oil and a preheated oven is also critical.
You Must Know
Patting the steak cubes completely dry with paper towels before seasoning is a necessary step to achieve a proper sear. Overcrowding the skillet will steam the steak instead of creating a crust; cook in batches if your pan is not large enough. The internal temperature for steak is typically 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the steak bites and in an oven or toaster oven for the potatoes to maintain texture. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the potatoes soft and the steak tough.