(Morceaux de steak au beurre à l’ail et pommes de terre écrasées au fromage)
This dish is the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful steak bites and crispy-on-the-outside, cheesy smashed potatoes. It’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.
Ingredients Explained
🥩 Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Sirloin steak (1½ lbs)
A lean yet tender cut that cooks quickly and stays juicy when seared.
Salt & pepper
Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the beef.
Olive oil (2 tbsp)
Helps achieve a good sear without burning.
Garlic (5 cloves, minced)
Adds bold aroma and deep savory flavor.
Unsalted butter (4 tbsp)
Creates a rich garlic butter sauce and keeps the steak tender.
Fresh parsley (garnish)
Adds freshness and a pop of color.
🥔 Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Baby potatoes (1½ lbs)
Perfect size for smashing and roasting evenly.
Olive oil (¼ cup)
Helps the potatoes crisp beautifully in the oven.
Salt & pepper
Brings out the potato flavor.
Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated)
Melts into the potatoes for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp)
Adds richness.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Enhances the savory taste.
Fresh chives (garnish)
Mild onion flavor and fresh finish.
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, add salt, and bring to a boil.
- Cook until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and place potatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Using the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with minced garlic.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
- Remove from oven, add butter and grated cheddar, then return to oven for 5 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with chopped chives.
Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites
- Pat the steak pieces dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak bites in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
- Lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic.
- Stir and spoon the garlic butter over the steak for 1–2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step 3: Serve
Plate the garlic butter steak bites alongside the cheesy smashed potatoes. Spoon extra garlic butter from the pan over the steak for maximum flavor.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking steak—this ensures a proper sear.
Let the steak rest for a minute before serving to keep it juicy.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
For extra crisp potatoes, roast them a little longer before adding cheese.
Variations
Spicy version: Add chili flakes or paprika to the steak butter.
Herb lovers: Use thyme or rosemary in the garlic butter.
Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
Healthier option: Use less butter and add Greek yogurt to the potatoes instead of cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye or strip steak works well, though cooking times may vary.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can boil and smash the potatoes in advance, then roast before serving. Steak is best cooked fresh.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely—just reduce the garlic if needed.
Final Thoughts
This garlic butter steak bites and cheesy smashed potatoes recipe is a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve guests.