When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a perfectly cooked steak accompanied by crispy, flavorful potatoes. Garlic butter steak and potatoes is a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart. This culinary delight combines the rich flavors of steak with the aromatic essence of garlic butter, creating a meal that is both simple to prepare and utterly delicious. In this article, we will explore how to make this mouthwatering dish, along with some tips and tricks to elevate your cooking game.
The Perfect Cut of Steak
Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial to achieving a mouthwatering dish. Popular cuts for garlic butter steak include ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. Ribeye is known for its marbling and rich flavor, while sirloin offers a leaner option without sacrificing taste. Filet mignon is the most tender cut, making it a favorite for special occasions. Regardless of your choice, always opt for high-quality, grass-fed beef whenever possible, as it enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, wash and halve the baby potatoes. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
2. Season the Steaks
While the potatoes are roasting, take your steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This step ensures even cooking. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Sear the Steaks
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them to develop a beautiful crust.
4. Add Garlic Butter
Flip the steaks over and add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the garlicky butter. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
5. Let It Rest
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak.
6. Serve
After the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color. Slice the rested steaks against the grain and serve alongside the crispy garlic potatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter from the pan over the steaks for an extra burst of flavor, and garnish with fresh herbs.
READ MORE: The Unbeatable Pair: Rosemary and Beef