Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet is a dish that perfectly marries the savory richness of seared steaks with the comforting, earthy flavors of herb-infused roasted potatoes. This one-pan wonder is not only a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in a harmonious blend but also a testament to the ease and elegance of skillet cooking. The first time I prepared this dish, it was an instant hit, offering a restaurant-quality meal right at home. The combination of garlic butter melting over perfectly cooked steaks and golden-brown potatoes makes this dish a hearty, satisfying option for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2-4 petite steaks
- 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
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your skillet will be ready to go into the oven for the final cooking phase.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and dried herbs. Set this mixture aside for later use. This garlic butter will add a burst of flavor to both the steaks and potatoes.
- Season Steaks: Generously season the steaks on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear Steaks: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle it with olive oil. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice, browned crust. Once seared, transfer the steaks to a plate and set aside.
- Cook Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the diced baby potatoes. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and a bit more garlic powder. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they start to brown.
- Combine and Roast: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Return the steaks to the skillet on the other side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the steaks should reach your preferred level of doneness.
- Add 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 on the potatoes. Allow the butter to melt and infuse the dish with its rich flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir the potatoes to ensure they’re evenly coated in the garlic butter. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh thyme and parsley before serving to add a fresh, aromatic touch.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Additional Tips
- Choosing Steaks: Petite steaks are ideal for this recipe due to their size and tenderness, but you can use your preferred cut of steak. Adjust cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness.
- Potato Size: Ensure the baby potatoes are diced into uniform sizes for even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook more quickly and get a nice crispy exterior.
- Skillet Choice: Use an oven-safe skillet for this recipe. Cast iron is ideal for its heat retention and ability to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Doneness: For steak doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Medium-rare is typically reached at 135°F (57°C), medium at 145°F (63°C), and so on.
- Resting Meat: Allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful steak.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this recipe without an oven-safe skillet? A: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the ingredients to a baking dish for the oven portion of the cooking process.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? A: While fresh herbs offer the best flavor, dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use them in smaller quantities since dried herbs are more potent.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free? A: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative. Many brands offer versions that mimic the taste and texture of real butter.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this skillet? A: Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or green beans. Adjust cooking times as needed depending on the vegetable’s cooking time.
Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet offers a fulfilling and flavorful dining experience with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The simplicity of its preparation belies the depth of flavor achieved, showcasing how a few well-chosen ingredients can create a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.