Savory Steak Bites with Potatoes

This restaurant-quality garlic butter steak bites with creamy mashed potatoes brings steakhouse flavor right to your dinner table in less than 30 minutes. The tender bites of steak swimming in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with fluffy mashed potatoes creates a dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

I first created this recipe when my husband was craving steak but I didn't have time for a full steakhouse experience. The steak bites were such a hit that they've become our go-to impressive-yet-easy dinner for both family meals and entertaining friends.

Ingredients

• Sirloin or ribeye steak perfectly balances tenderness with flavor choose well-marbled cuts for the juiciest results
• Olive oil creates the initial sear that locks in the steak's juices
• Unsalted butter forms the base of the luxurious sauce while allowing you to control the salt level
• Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic punch that dried versions simply can't match
• Worcestershire sauce adds complex umami notes that enhance the meat's natural flavor
• Russet potatoes create the fluffiest mashed potatoes with their high starch content
• Whole milk or heavy cream brings richness to the potatoes choose cream for extra decadence
• Garlic powder infuses the potatoes with subtle flavor without overpowering
• Fresh parsley brightens everything with color and a fresh herbal note

How To Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Potatoes

Prep the ingredients

Cut steak into consistent 1-inch cubes ensuring they'll cook evenly. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to achieve the best possible sear. Have all remaining ingredients measured and ready as this recipe moves quickly once cooking begins.

Sear the steak

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan until it's shimmering but not smoking. Arrange steak pieces in a single layer with space between each piece to prevent steaming. Resist the urge to move the meat for at least 2 minutes allowing a beautiful crust to form before flipping each piece to sear the other sides.

Create the garlic butter sauce

Reduce heat to prevent burning the garlic which turns bitter when overcooked. Add butter and watch it melt completely before adding minced garlic. The garlic should sizzle gently and become fragrant but not brown. Add Worcestershire sauce and stir continuously to coat each steak bite in the flavorful sauce.

Perfect the mashed potatoes

Start potatoes in cold water to ensure even cooking from the inside out. After draining return potatoes to the still-warm pot and let them steam dry for 1-2 minutes before adding butter. This removes excess moisture for fluffier results. Mash while potatoes are still hot incorporating butter first then gradually adding warmed milk for the smoothest texture.

Plate and garnish

Create a generous bed of mashed potatoes then arrange steak bites and pour extra garlic butter sauce over everything. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley which adds bright color and cuts through the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot.

The Worcestershire sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always added a dash to her steak preparations and I've carried on the tradition. That subtle tang and depth it adds makes people wonder what that special something is without being able to identify it specifically. I've served this to guests who have asked for the recipe dozens of times.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the steak bites gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat just until heated through avoid high heat which will continue cooking the steak. The mashed potatoes may need a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore their creamy texture. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but the stovetop method maintains better texture.

Perfect Pairings

Transform this meal into a complete dining experience by adding complementary sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness of the steak and potatoes. Roasted asparagus or green beans also work beautifully for added color and nutrition. For a special occasion add a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec which stands up perfectly to the robust flavors of the garlic butter sauce.

Quick Variations

• Try using butter-infused olive oil for an even richer flavor profile
• Swap in sweet potatoes for traditional mashed for a nutritional boost
• Add sautéed mushrooms to the pan after cooking the steak for an earthy element
• Include a splash of brandy or red wine to deglaze the pan for an elevated sauce
• Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in addition to parsley for complex flavor

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef works best for steak bites?

Sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices as specified in this dish. They offer a good balance of tenderness and flavor. New York strip and tenderloin (filet mignon) also work well but are more expensive options. For best results, choose well-marbled cuts and trim excess fat before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

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

For medium-rare steak bites, they should have a nice brown sear on the outside while remaining slightly pink in the center - this typically takes 2-3 minutes per side as the recipe suggests. For medium, cook about 30 seconds longer. The pieces should feel slightly firm but with some give when pressed with tongs.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The mashed potatoes can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated with a splash of milk. However, the steak bites are best prepared just before serving as they can become tough when reheated. If you must prepare ahead, slightly undercook the steak bites, then quickly reheat in a hot pan with a touch of butter just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce, coconut aminos, or a mixture of soy sauce with a touch of vinegar and a pinch of sugar. For added depth, include a dash of fish sauce or anchovy paste to replicate Worcestershire's umami quality.

→ How can I make creamier mashed potatoes?

For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. After boiling, dry the potatoes in the warm pot before mashing. Replace milk with warm heavy cream, increase the butter amount, and consider adding a few tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream. Using a ricer instead of a masher will also create a smoother texture.

→ What side dishes pair well with garlic butter steak bites?

Beyond the included mashed potatoes, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. For a more indulgent meal, consider adding garlic bread to soak up the delicious butter sauce.