If you are craving a hearty and soul-satisfying meal that combines perfectly cooked steak with golden, crispy potatoes layered in rich, fragrant garlic butter, then you’ve found your new favorite: the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe. This dish isn’t just about ingredients; it’s an experience of comfort and indulgence that comes together in one pan, making weeknight dinners feel extra special and weekends even more relaxed. The sear on the steak, the melt-in-your-mouth buttered garlic, and the crispy-tender potatoes all mingle beautifully to create a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderful examples of simplicity meeting flavor. Each one plays a crucial role in building the taste, texture, and color that makes this skillet dinner unforgettable.
- Ribeye or sirloin steaks (2 pieces, 6-8 oz each): Choose your favorite cut for juicy, tender meat packed with flavor.
- Potatoes (4 medium-sized, Yukon Gold or red): Their creamy inside and crispy edges provide the perfect potato texture.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp, divided): Adds a subtle fruity richness and ensures the perfect sear.
- Unsalted butter (3 tbsp, divided): The star of the garlic butter sauce, bringing lusciousness and depth.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with irresistible aromatic flavor.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (1 tsp, chopped, optional): Adds a herbaceous note that brightens the richness.
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a smoky, mildly sweet kick that enhances the steak.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
- Onion powder (1/2 tsp, optional): Gives extra savory depth to the potatoes.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): A fresh green touch that adds color and brightness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes, then chop them into roughly 1-inch cubes. To speed up cooking and ensure they’re tender inside, microwave them with a pinch of salt for 5-7 minutes. This quick step puts you ahead, letting the potatoes finish cooking perfectly in the skillet later.
Step 2: Cook the Steaks
Pat your steaks dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to build flavor in every bite. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add your steaks. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your preferred doneness. Once they have that beautiful crust, remove them and let them rest—resting keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Using the same skillet (that now has heaps of steak flavor), add the remaining olive oil and toss in the par-cooked potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy on the outside and tender within. For a little extra softness, cover the pan briefly to steam them gently.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Push the potatoes to one side to create space in the skillet. Add butter and let it melt slowly until it becomes glossy. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just long enough for it to become fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—taking care not to burn it. This garlicky butter is going to elevate the entire dish with irresistible aroma and flavor.
Step 5: Combine Steak and Potatoes
Slice your rested steak into strips or bite-sized cubes, then add back to the skillet with the potatoes. Toss everything together in that luscious garlic butter sauce so every piece is generously coated. This step is where flavors truly meld into a comforting, savory masterpiece.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle in chopped rosemary or thyme for an herbal burst if you like, and garnish with fresh parsley to add a vibrant pop of color. Serve this piping hot right out of the skillet to enjoy the perfect harmony of juicy steak, crispy-tender potatoes, and buttery garlic goodness. Get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary add not only a fresh aroma but a beautiful visual contrast to this rich dish. A little sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving enhances the textures and makes each bite shine.
Side Dishes
If you want something green to balance the richness, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon would be perfect. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed cauliflower or roasted root vegetables complement the flavors wonderfully without overwhelming the skillet’s star components.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skillet directly at the table for a cozy, rustic vibe that invites everyone to dig in. Alternatively, plate the steak and potatoes beside a dollop of horseradish cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fancy twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this skillet meal for up to a month. Use freezer-safe containers and separate portions so you can thaw only what you need.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispiness of the potatoes and warm the steak without drying it out. You can also use the microwave, but be mindful it might soften the potato edges.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye and sirloin work wonderfully because of their balance of tenderness and flavor, but you can also try filet mignon or strip steak based on your preference and budget.
What type of potatoes are best for this skillet dish?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and how well they crisp up. Russets can work but tend to be fluffier and might need gentler handling.
Is it necessary to microwave the potatoes before cooking?
Microwaving saves time and ensures the potatoes are cooked through in the skillet, helping achieve the perfect crispy outside and tender inside texture faster.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients here are naturally gluten-free, just be sure to check your paprika and any seasoning labels to avoid hidden gluten.
How do I know when the steak is cooked perfectly?
Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results: about 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Resting the steak after cooking also locks in those delicious juices.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug on a plate but also impresses without complicated steps. Whether for a special night or a comforting everyday meal, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and bask in the pure joy of simple ingredients coming together to make something magical.
Print
Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet featuring tender ribeye or sirloin steaks cooked to perfection alongside crispy, golden potatoes all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 (6-8 oz) ribeye or sirloin steaks (or your preferred cut)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or thyme), chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl, add a pinch of salt, and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Steaks: Season steaks generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add steaks and cook about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or longer to desired doneness. Remove steaks and let rest.
- Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add cubed potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and onion powder if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp on the outside and tender inside. Cover with a lid if needed to soften the potatoes.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Push the cooked potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add butter in the empty space and melt over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
- Combine Steak and Potatoes: Slice steaks into strips or cubes. Add them back to the skillet and toss well with the potatoes and garlic butter sauce to coat evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped rosemary or thyme over the top if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Microwaving the potatoes before frying helps speed up the cooking process and ensures they become tender inside while crisping on the outside.
- You can substitute rosemary with thyme or omit herbs if preferred.
- Adjust steak cooking time according to thickness and your preferred doneness.
- For a lower fat version, reduce olive oil and butter slightly or use a cooking spray.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
