
When I need a dinner that feels special but comes together with almost no effort, these garlic butter steak bites and potatoes are my go-to. The steak cooks up perfectly tender while the potatoes get crisp and golden brown right in the same skillet, all in under 30 minutes.
I discovered this recipe on a busy night and was amazed at how fast it came together. Now it is my family’s favorite when we want something hearty without waiting for hours.
Ingredients
- Ghee or butter: adds richness and helps everything brown beautifully use grass fed ghee for an extra nutty flavor
- Olive oil: keeps the flavor balanced and helps prevent burning look for a good quality extra virgin
- Yukon gold potatoes: an amazing creamy or slightly waxy potato that crisps up nicely pick ones that feel firm and heavy for their size
- Fresh garlic: infuses dish with warm bold notes always choose bulbs with tight skin and no green shoots
- Dried thyme and oregano: add herbaceous background for depth make sure your dried herbs are not expired for the best flavor
- Sea salt and black pepper: enhance and brighten every bite opt for flaky sea salt for a bit of crunch
- Sirloin steak: cooks up juicy and tender but any quick cooking steak will work select steak with marbling for added juiciness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Start by heating a large cast iron skillet over medium heat for a couple minutes so it is evenly hot then add the olive oil and half of your ghee or butter so the fats melt together and make a glossy base
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Scatter the diced potatoes into the pan and sprinkle on the garlic dried thyme dried oregano salt and pepper let them sit without stirring for two or three minutes so the sides touching the pan turn golden brown then give them a good stir Continue cooking for another eight to ten minutes stirring every minute or two so every potato bit bronzes up and cooks through When the potatoes are golden and fork tender transfer them along with all the crisped little stuck-on bits to a plate and keep them warm
- Sear the Steak:
- Increase the heat on your skillet to medium high and add the rest of your ghee once melted let the steak pieces tumble in and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper Let the steak cook undisturbed for at least two minutes to develop a crust before stirring give them another one to two minutes just until browned outside and juicy inside
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the potatoes to the pan with the steak and give everything a generous toss so the garlicky butter coats every bite taste and adjust with more salt or pepper as needed sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot

My favorite part is swirling those crispy potato bits through the buttery steak juices at the end it reminds me of family Sunday dinners when we would fight over the last pieces
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers to room temperature before storing in an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days and reheat gently in a skillet for the best texture You can freeze cooked steak and potatoes but the potato texture softens after freezing
Ingredient Substitutions
Try baby red potatoes or fingerlings if Yukon golds are unavailable Use ribeye or strip steak for more tenderness or swap in chicken breast for a lighter twist Fresh rosemary or Italian seasoning also works well in place of thyme and oregano
Serving Suggestions

Serve these steak bites and potatoes with a crisp green salad or some buttered green beans for a full meal They are also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of chimichurri if you want to change up the flavors
Cultural and Historical Context
This style of skillet meal reminds me of classic steakhouse dinners but simplified for home cooks Families have been enjoying meat and potatoes since the earliest days of American home cooking and this recipe embodies that cozy tradition in a fresh fast modern way
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the steak bites tender?
Let the steak sear undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. Don’t overcook—aim for a good golden crust outside and juicy center.
- → Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, yellow, red, or fingerling potatoes also work well. Just cut them into small, even cubes for even cooking.
- → Why should potatoes be cut small and evenly?
This helps them cook quickly and evenly, ensuring all the pieces become golden brown at the same time.
- → What’s the best pan to use?
A cast iron skillet provides the best sear and helps both steak and potatoes develop rich, crispy edges.
- → Can I swap ghee for butter?
Absolutely. Either ghee or butter will add a rich, savory flavor to both steak and potatoes.