I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something warm and substantial. The idea of combining perfectly seared steaks with tender baby potatoes, all finished with a luscious garlic butter sauce, seemed like the ultimate comfort food. The reaction was nothing short of ecstatic. The dish was a hit, with everyone praising not only the flavor but also the simplicity of preparation. The skillet method made cleanup easy and allowed the flavors to meld beautifully.
The beauty of this Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet lies in its straightforward approach. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish from start to finish.
Ingredients
2-4 petite steaks (refer to the note for details)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2-4 pounds baby potatoes, diced
2-6 tablespoons salted butter, softened (1 tablespoon per steak, plus 2 tablespoons for the potatoes)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for ensuring that the potatoes become tender while the steak cooks to your desired doneness.
Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine 2-6 tablespoons of softened salted butter (depending on the number of steaks you are preparing), 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herb blend. Set this mixture aside; it will be used to flavor both the steak and the potatoes.
Season the Steaks: Generously season your petite steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. This seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the steak and complement the garlic butter.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat the Skillet: Place a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers.
Sear the Steaks: Add the seasoned steaks to the skillet. Sear each steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice, deep brown crust. This searing process locks in the juices and creates a flavorful exterior. Once seared, transfer the steaks to a plate and set aside. They will continue to cook in the oven later.
Step 3: Prepare and Cook the Potatoes
Cook the Potatoes: Add diced baby potatoes to the same skillet. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté the potatoes for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown. The skillet should still be on medium-high heat.
Arrange for Baking: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Place the seared steaks on the empty side of the skillet. This arrangement allows the flavors to mingle and ensures that both components cook evenly.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Transfer to Oven: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your steaks and your desired level of doneness (rare, medium, well-done).
Apply Garlic Butter: Immediately after removing the skillet from the oven, place a dollop of the prepared garlic butter on each steak and the remaining butter over the potatoes. The heat from the steak and potatoes will cause the butter to melt, creating a delicious sauce.
Finish with Herbs: Once the butter has melted, stir the potatoes to coat them in the garlic butter. Sprinkle the potatoes with chopped fresh thyme and parsley. The fresh herbs add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
Step 5: Serve
Cool and Slice: Let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices in the steak to redistribute, making for a more flavorful and tender bite.
Portion and Serve: Slice the steaks as desired and serve with the garlic butter potatoes. Enjoy the meal while it’s still warm for the best experience.
Variations and Substitutions
Steak Choices: While petite steaks are ideal, you can use other cuts of beef such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak.
Potato Variations: If baby potatoes are unavailable, you can use regular potatoes cut into small chunks or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Butter Substitutes: For a lighter version, you can use a combination of olive oil and a small amount of butter or opt for a dairy-free butter substitute if needed.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or chives to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Summary
Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines the best of both worlds: tender steak and crispy, buttery potatoes. The ease of preparation and the one-pan method make it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich, savory flavors and the delightful aroma of garlic and herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes, making it a memorable meal for family and friends. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this skillet dish, and let it bring warmth and joy to your dining table.
