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.
