Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-prepared meal that brings together tender steak, golden potatoes, and a rich garlic butter sauce. The Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is not just a dish; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds with its harmony of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines the hearty taste of steak with the buttery goodness of potatoes, making it a favorite among meat and potato enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this delightful dish at home, from the list of ingredients to the step-by-step instructions and additional tips for perfection.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh, quality ingredients to enhance flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lb flank steak (or ribeye/tenderloin), sliced
• 1.5 lb baby yellow potatoes, quartered
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Marinade

• 1/3 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• Fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

Creating the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is straightforward, with each step designed to maximize flavor and texture. Follow these steps to achieve restaurant-quality results at home:

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the steak slices with soy sauce, olive oil, pepper, and hot sauce. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
2. Marinate: Let it marinate while you prepare the potatoes. This allows the steak to absorb the flavors, enhancing its taste and tenderness.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

3. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter.
4. Cook the Potatoes: Add the quartered baby yellow potatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden and fork-tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

5. Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter.
6. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano). Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

7. Add Steak to Skillet: Lay the marinated steak slices in a single layer in the skillet.
8. Sear the Steak: Cook for about 1 minute on each side, adjusting for your preferred level of doneness. For added flavor, optionally stir in the reserved marinade and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

9. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Stir them together with the steak and garlic butter sauce. Heat through and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
10. Serve: Transfer to serving plates, garnished with additional fresh herbs and optional cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving of the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet:

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fat: 28g

This dish not only provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats but also packs a punch in flavor, making it a wholesome meal choice.

How to Serve

Elevating your dining experience involves not just the taste of the dish but also the way it is presented and accompanied by complementary elements. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to serve the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet to create a memorable meal.

Garnish

A simple yet effective way to enhance the visual appeal of your dish is by adding a garnish. For the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet, consider topping the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. These herbs not only introduce a vibrant splash of color but also contribute a fresh, aromatic element that balances the richness of the garlic butter. For a more sophisticated touch, you might also sprinkle some microgreens or edible flowers, which can add a gourmet flair to your presentation.

Accompaniments

While the star of your meal is undoubtedly the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes, the right accompaniments can elevate the entire dining experience. A side of steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, provides a bright, crunchy contrast to the tender steak and creamy potatoes. The natural sweetness and slight bitterness of these vegetables can help cleanse the palate between bites.

Alternatively, a crisp green salad can add a refreshing element to the meal. Consider a simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to complement the dish’s richness. The peppery notes of arugula paired with the acidity of the vinaigrette can enhance the flavors of the steak, making each bite even more enjoyable. For added texture and flavor, you could include sliced radishes, cherry tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Beverage Pairing

To truly enhance your dining experience, consider the beverage pairings that will complement the flavors of the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet. A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, can elevate the richness of the steak while its tannins cut through the buttery sauce, creating a harmonious balance. If you prefer beer, opt for a cold, full-bodied ale or a stout, which will provide a malty sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the dish.

For non-alcoholic options, consider serving a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime, which can refresh the palate and add a touch of elegance to the meal.

Plating

The art of plating can significantly enhance your dining experience. For the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet, start by arranging the steak slices in a slightly overlapping fashion on one side of the plate. This creates visual interest and allows the diner to see the perfectly cooked meat. Next, layer the potatoes beside the steak, ensuring some of the crispy edges are visible to showcase their texture.

To bring everything together, drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the steak and potatoes, allowing it to pool slightly on the plate. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a glossy finish that looks appealing. For an extra touch, you might consider placing a sprig of fresh parsley or a few chive sprigs on top of the dish to tie in with your garnish.

Lastly, don’t forget to serve the dish with the accompaniments on the side, either in separate bowls or neatly arranged on the plate, ensuring the colors and textures contrast beautifully against the rich tones of the steak and potatoes.

By focusing on these details, you can transform a simple meal into an extraordinary dining experience that delights both the eyes and the palate. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet with these serving tips and savor every moment at the table!

Additional Tips

To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is a success, consider these additional cooking tips:

1. Steak Selection

The choice of steak can significantly impact the overall flavor and texture of your dish. Opt for high-quality cuts such as ribeye, tenderloin, or sirloin. Ribeye is well-known for its rich marbling, which adds juiciness and a robust flavor. Tenderloin, on the other hand, is prized for its tenderness and buttery texture, making it a favorite for those who prefer a melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on taste, sirloin steak can also be a great choice. Regardless of the cut, look for steaks that have a bright red color with good marbling (the white streaks of fat) throughout, as this will contribute to a more flavorful and juicy result.

2. Potato Size

Uniformity in potato size is crucial for achieving even cooking. When chopping your potatoes, aim for pieces that are approximately the same size—about 1-inch cubes work well. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, preventing some from becoming overly soft while others remain undercooked. Additionally, consider the type of potato you are using; Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices for skillet dishes due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape during cooking. If you prefer a crispy texture, parboiling the potatoes before adding them to the skillet can help achieve a delicious golden crust.

3. Herb Freshness

Herbs play a pivotal role in elevating the flavor profile of your Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet. Using fresh herbs rather than dried ones can make a significant difference. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary not only provide more vibrant flavors but also add a delightful aroma that enhances the overall dining experience. When using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their bright flavors and colors. If you’re using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated, so you may want to use about one-third of the amount you would with fresh herbs.

4. Heat Control

Maintaining the right temperature is essential for achieving the perfect sear on your steak. Start with a medium-high heat to ensure your skillet is hot enough to create a beautiful, caramelized crust. Preheat the skillet for a few minutes before adding oil; this helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. Once you place the steak in the skillet, avoid moving it around too much. Let it sear undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to lock in the juices and develop a rich flavor. If you notice the steak is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning while still achieving a nice crust.

5. Resting Time

Resting your steak after cooking is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Allowing the steak to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the heat helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat. If you cut into the steak immediately, the juices will run out, resulting in a drier piece of meat. During this resting period, you can cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm. This simple step ensures that every bite is juicy and flavorful, making your Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet truly irresistible.

By following these additional tips, you can elevate your Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet from a simple meal to a delectable culinary experience. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delicious results!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as red potatoes or russet potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. What can I substitute for soy sauce in the marinade?

Coconut aminos are a great alternative to soy sauce, offering a similar umami flavor with a slightly sweeter taste.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative such as margarine or olive oil.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of hot sauce in the marinade or add more crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for extra heat.

Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of steak and potatoes with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. It’s a versatile meal that can suit a variety of occasions, from a weeknight family dinner to a special gathering with friends. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing and nutritionally balanced. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the results of your culinary efforts with loved ones. Happy cooking!

Print