When it comes to simple, satisfying dinners, few dishes deliver as beautifully as Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes. This recipe combines tender, golden-seared beef cubes with crispy potatoes, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that ties everything together. It is hearty without being complicated, and impressive without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The first time I prepared this dish, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. I used baby Yukon gold potatoes and let them crisp up properly before adding the beef, and the texture was outstanding. The garlic butter infuses both the beef and potatoes with deep, savory flavor, while fresh herbs brighten the entire dish. It has since become one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners alike. If you enjoy bold flavors and minimal cleanup, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pan meal is quick, packed with protein, loaded with rich garlic butter flavor, and perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining.
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Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes – A One-Pan Comfort Classic Packed with Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a hearty one-pan meal featuring tender, seared steak bites and crispy golden potatoes tossed in rich garlic butter and fresh herbs for a comforting and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 lbs baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Parboil the halved potatoes in salted water for 8–10 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add potatoes cut-side down and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Season steak bites with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Sear steak bites in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Work in batches if needed. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Return potatoes and steak bites to the skillet. Toss well to coat in garlic butter and cook together for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ribeye instead of sirloin for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to achieve a good sear.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Sirloin steak
Sirloin is an excellent choice for beef bites because it is tender, flavorful, and cooks quickly. When cut into evenly sized cubes, it sears beautifully and remains juicy inside.
Baby potatoes
Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Their creamy interior contrasts wonderfully with their crisp exterior when pan-fried.
Unsalted butter
Butter forms the foundation of the sauce. It delivers richness and carries the garlic flavor throughout the dish while helping create a golden finish.
Olive oil
A small amount of olive oil prevents the butter from burning and assists in achieving a proper sear on both the potatoes and beef.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic provides bold aroma and depth. It infuses the butter with savory intensity that defines the character of this dish.
Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley adds freshness and color, balancing the richness of the butter and beef.
Fresh thyme or rosemary
These herbs bring earthy undertones that pair beautifully with steak and potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the beef and potatoes while helping draw out moisture for better browning.
Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and sharpness, complementing the garlic and herbs.
Directions
Begin by washing and halving the baby potatoes if they are larger in size. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure they crisp properly during cooking.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil along with half of the butter. Once melted and hot, add the potatoes in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and fork-tender. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the beef cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Avoid moving the pieces too frequently to achieve proper browning.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the skillet, stirring gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the potatoes to the pan and toss everything together to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Equipment needed : Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filli
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain texture and prevent the beef from overcooking. Avoid microwaving for extended periods, as it may cause the beef to become tough.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt based on your preferences. For added heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne into the garlic butter. If you enjoy a touch of acidity, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the richness beautifully.
You can substitute sirloin with ribeye for extra marbling and tenderness, or use tenderloin for an even more luxurious texture. I once added sliced mushrooms during the final cooking stage, and they absorbed the garlic butter wonderfully while adding earthy depth.
For a lighter option, replace half of the butter with additional olive oil. You can also include vegetables such as green beans or asparagus, sautéing them separately and combining everything before serving.
To create a more robust herb profile, experiment with a mix of rosemary, thyme, and oregano. If you prefer a creamier finish, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end to create a subtle sauce that coats the beef and potatoes.
This dish is forgiving and highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes while preserving its comforting appeal.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Below is the approximate nutrition information per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
This dish is high in protein and rich in flavor, making it satisfying and energy-dense.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Dry the potatoes thoroughly
Removing excess moisture ensures they develop a crisp exterior.
Do not overcrowd the pan
Cooking in batches if necessary guarantees proper browning.
Use high heat for searing
A hot skillet creates a flavorful crust on the beef.
Add garlic last
Garlic cooks quickly, so adding it near the end prevents burning.
FAQs
What cut of beef works best for this recipe?
Sirloin is ideal, but ribeye or tenderloin also work beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but you can partially cook the potatoes in advance.
How do I keep the beef tender?
Avoid overcooking and allow the beef to rest briefly before serving.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I bake this instead of using a skillet?
Yes, though you may not achieve the same deep sear and crisp texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly in just one pan. With tender seared beef, crispy potatoes, and aromatic garlic butter, it delivers rich, satisfying taste with minimal effort. Whether served for a casual family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe offers dependable results and irresistible flavor every time.
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