I absolutely love this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe because it combines the richness of tender, garlicky steak bites with those irresistibly crispy smashed potatoes that everyone wants to grab first. It’s one of those comforting dishes that works perfectly for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing your friends when they pop over unexpectedly. You’ll find that the flavors just sing together, making every bite a total winner.

When I first tried making this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could turn into such a deliciously satisfying meal. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up even after a busy day, but fancy enough to make you feel like a kitchen pro. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your rotation — my family goes crazy for this one every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, which means more time enjoying and less time cooking.
  • Flavor Explosion: Garlic butter amps up the steak’s flavor, and the crispy potatoes add the perfect crunchy contrast.
  • Versatile Meal: Great for weeknights, date nights, or feeding a small crowd — everyone always asks for seconds.
  • Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need fancy stuff; pantry staples come together beautifully here.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe work together to build big, bold flavors without any complicated steps. I always recommend choosing good quality steak for tender bites and starchy potatoes for that ultimate crispiness.

  • Steak (like sirloin or ribeye): Choose a cut that’s tender and well-marbled for juicy steak bites.
  • Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes: Perfect size for smashing and crisping up nicely in the oven.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create that luscious garlic butter sauce.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that punch of flavor; avoid pre-minced if possible for best taste.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herby finish to balance the richness.
  • Olive oil: Used for roasting potatoes to crisp them perfectly.
  • Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.
  • Optional red pepper flakes: For a little heat if you like a spicy kick.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to mix things up a little with this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. Making it your own definitely helps keep it exciting and can cater to different taste preferences or dietary needs.

  • Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak: I tried swapping in shrimp once for a lighter version, and it turned out amazing with the same garlic butter sauce.
  • Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes: For a sweeter, slightly tangy twist, try crispy smashed sweet potatoes—they’re delicious and keep the recipe hearty.
  • Add mushrooms or bell peppers: Sauté some veggies along with the steak bites for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
  • Dairy-free option: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to make this recipe allergy friendly without losing flavor.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Potatoes to Crispy Perfection

Start by boiling the potatoes until they’re just tender—think fork can pierce through but they’re still firm enough to hold their shape. Then gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass or a sturdy spoon. Lay them out on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Roast in a hot oven (around 425°F) for about 20-25 minutes until the edges turn golden and ultra crispy. This step is key to your crispy smashed potatoes, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

While the potatoes are roasting, cut your steak into bite-sized pieces—try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Heat a skillet on high with a little oil, then add the steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for about 2 minutes per side until you get a beautiful crust but the inside stays juicy. Season with salt and pepper midway. When the steak bites are perfectly seared, set them aside so we can make the garlic butter sauce next.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute—don’t let it brown or burn, or it might taste bitter. Then return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter, coating them thoroughly. If you want some extra heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes here. Finish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.

Step 4: Plate and Enjoy!

Once your potatoes are perfectly crispy and golden, transfer them to plates and top with those rich, garlicky steak bites. You’ll love that contrast of textures—crispy potatoes with tender, buttery steak. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce over everything. Serve immediately and watch your family or guests light up with every bite.

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Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing steak bites in batches ensures a perfect crust instead of steaming.
  • Use a Hot Oven for Potatoes: High heat roasting is what makes smashed potatoes gorgeously crispy—don’t lower the temperature.
  • Fresh Garlic is a Game Changer: I learned that pre-minced garlic just doesn’t deliver the same fragrant punch.
  • Allow Steak to Rest Briefly: Resting for a few minutes after searing keeps the bites juicy when tossed in butter.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a layered dish served in a white bowl, filled with soft, cooked potato slices at the bottom, topped with melted yellow and white cheese that looks creamy and smooth. Mixed within the cheese are pieces of browned sausage, adding a reddish-brown color and a slightly textured surface. A silver fork is digging into the dish, lifting a bite with layers of cheese-covered potato and sausage. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a red and white striped cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually scatter freshly chopped parsley right before serving because it adds a bright, vibrant touch and cuts through the richness just perfectly. Sometimes I top with a little grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice—it’s a small addition that really lifts the flavors.

Side Dishes

I like pairing this dish with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance all the butteriness. Roasted or steamed green beans also work beautifully, and if it’s a weekend, a crusty garlic bread on the side always rounds things out well.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party, I’ve served the steak bites and smashed potatoes layered in small individual cast iron skillets, sprinkled with fresh herbs, and set on rustic wooden boards. It’s impressive without being fussy, and everyone loves that cozy vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep those potatoes from getting soggy, I always separate them from the steak bites before storing, then reheat separately.

Freezing

I haven’t personally frozen this dish often because it tastes best fresh, but you can freeze just the cooked steak bites without the potatoes. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep them tender and flavorful.

Reheating

For reheating, I spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a hot oven for about 10 minutes to re-crisp. The steak bites reheat beautifully in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of butter or olive oil to keep them juicy.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

    While fresh baby or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for smashing and crisping, you can use thawed frozen potatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just be aware they might not get as crispy as fresh ones due to extra moisture.

  2. What cut of steak is best for steak bites?

    I recommend tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon because they cook quickly and stay juicy. Avoid tougher cuts unless you’re willing to marinate or cook longer.

  3. How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

    Boil until just tender, then smash gently but firmly to create flat surfaces. Roast at a high temperature with plenty of oil and space between the potatoes to allow for crisping.

  4. Can I prepare the steak bites ahead of time?

    You can partially cook the steak bites ahead and finish them with garlic butter when ready to serve. Just be sure to reheat quickly to avoid drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings a smile to the table every time. I love how it’s straightforward yet feels indulgent, and it’s perfect for sharing with people you care about. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and impressive, give this a go—I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 69 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender boiled Russet potatoes, savory browned smoked sausage, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce topped with melted sharp cheddar. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole blends smoky, cheesy flavors with a velvety sauce baked to golden perfection.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Potatoes and Sausage

  • 3 cups peeled cubed Russet potatoes, boiled until soft but not mushy
  • 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups half & half or milk
  • 1/2 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing sausage)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced smoked sausage and cook, stirring and flipping occasionally, until they are browned slightly and flavorful.
  2. Prepare the Casserole Base: Lightly spray a 9×13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the cooked boiled potatoes and browned sausage into the dish, stirring gently just enough to distribute evenly.
  3. Make the Roux: Increase the skillet heat to medium. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually add the half & half (or milk) in 1/4 to 1/2 cup increments, whisking constantly to incorporate smoothly. Continue cooking the sauce, whisking frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork tender.

Notes

  • The recipe is adapted from Modern Day Moms.
  • For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika as specified or add a dash of liquid smoke.
  • Ensure potatoes are cooked until tender but not mushy to maintain texture in the casserole.
  • Half & half will yield a richer sauce, but milk works for a lighter version.
  • Can be prepared ahead by completing all steps up to baking and refrigerating; bake when ready to serve, adding extra baking time if baking from cold.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/8 of casserole)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 1178mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 97mg

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