Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

If you love hearty comfort food that feels like a restaurant dinner but is easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is for you. Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes bring together tender, juicy pieces of beef cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and paired with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes loaded with melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent without being complicated.

This dish combines two classic favorites: flavorful steak and cheesy mashed potatoes. The steak bites cook quickly, making them perfect for busy nights, while the mashed potatoes provide a rich and satisfying base that balances everything. The garlic butter ties it all together, giving the steak its deep flavor and the potatoes that irresistible touch of richness. Whether for family dinners or when you’re entertaining guests, this recipe always delivers.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

  • You get a complete comfort meal in one recipe.
  • The steak cooks in just minutes, so you can enjoy a fancy dinner even on a weekday.
  • The cheesy mashed potatoes are creamy, hearty, and go perfectly with the garlic butter sauce.
  • You can easily scale this recipe up for a family gathering or down for a cozy dinner for two.
  • It feels like something you’d order at a restaurant, but you can make it at home with simple ingredients.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Steak Bites?

The best cuts for steak bites are tender ones that cook quickly. Sirloin is one of the most popular choices because it’s flavorful and not too expensive. Ribeye works well if you want extra marbling and richness. Tenderloin is the most tender option but also the priciest. If you want a balance of flavor and value, go for sirloin. Just make sure to cut the steak into even bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly.

Options for Substitutions

  • Beef: If you don’t want to use steak, you can try chicken breast or chicken thighs for a lighter version. Pork tenderloin can also work well.
  • Butter: You can use olive oil or a mix of butter and oil if you prefer. This helps prevent the butter from burning.
  • Cheese in the potatoes: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can swap in mozzarella, Parmesan, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
  • Potatoes: Russet potatoes are fluffy, but Yukon Gold potatoes make creamier mashed potatoes. You can even use sweet potatoes for a twist.
  • Add-ins: Mushrooms, onions, or spinach can be added to the garlic butter sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

  • Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin): Cut into small cubes. Tender cuts are best for quick cooking.
  • Butter: Gives the steak rich flavor and makes the garlic sauce irresistible.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. It brings bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
  • Olive oil: Helps sear the steak and keeps the butter from burning.
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavor of the beef.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color to balance the richness.
  • Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for smooth mashed potatoes.
  • Cheddar cheese: Melts into the potatoes for that cheesy comfort.
  • Milk or cream: Makes the potatoes soft, creamy, and smooth.
  • Sour cream or cream cheese (optional): Adds tang and extra richness to the mashed potatoes.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Start by preparing the potatoes. Peel them, cut them into chunks, and boil them in salted water until fork-tender. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: While the potatoes are cooking, cut the steak into even bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels to make sure they sear properly. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then sear the steak bites in batches so the pan isn’t overcrowded. Cook each batch for about 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in parsley, then return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter.

Step 5: Drain the cooked potatoes and mash them with butter, milk or cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting the texture with more milk if needed.

Step 6: Serve the garlic butter steak bites hot, spooned over or alongside the cheesy mashed potatoes. Garnish with more parsley and extra cheese if you like.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

How Long to Cook Steak Bites

Steak bites cook very quickly. Depending on the size of your cubes and how you like your steak done, it takes about 2–3 minutes per side. Medium-rare takes less time, while medium or well-done will take longer. Be sure not to overcook, as the steak can dry out. Cooking in batches is important so the steak sears properly and doesn’t steam.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

  • Cut the steak into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  • Pat the steak dry before cooking to help it brown better.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches for the best sear.
  • Add the garlic at the end so it doesn’t burn. Burnt garlic turns bitter.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the potatoes so it melts smoothly.
  • Warm the milk or cream before adding to the potatoes to keep them fluffy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

  • Overcrowding the pan: This makes the steak steam instead of sear.
  • Overcooking the steak: Steak bites cook fast, so keep an eye on them.
  • Not seasoning enough: Both the steak and potatoes need enough salt and pepper for full flavor.
  • Using cold butter in mashed potatoes: It won’t blend as smoothly as softened or melted butter.
  • Skipping the resting step: Let the steak rest a minute before serving so the juices stay in.

What to Serve with Steak Bites and Mashed Potatoes

This dish is filling on its own, but you can round it out with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the potatoes and butter. Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach are also great sides.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the steak bites and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3 days. Reheat the steak quickly in a hot skillet or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking. The mashed potatoes can be reheated with a splash of milk to bring back their creamy texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories

~520 kcal

Protein

32g

Fat

32g

Saturated Fat

3g

Carbohydrates

28g

Sugar

2g

Cholesterol

95g

Sodium

780g

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Cheesy Mashed Potatoes is the kind of recipe that never fails to please. It combines juicy steak, buttery garlic flavor, and cheesy, creamy potatoes into a meal that feels comforting and satisfying. Best of all, it’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company. If you want a meal that feels special without taking hours in the kitchen, this is the recipe to try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but it should be fully thawed before cooking. Frozen steak won’t sear properly and can turn tough.

Yes. Prepare them, then reheat with a splash of milk or cream and stir until smooth before serving.

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Parmesan, or gouda also work well.

Yes, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers are delicious with the garlic butter sauce.

They should be browned on the outside. For medium-rare, the inside should still be pink. Use a meat thermometer if needed.

Yes, they’ll still be creamy without cheese. Just add more butter or cream for richness.

Reheat steak quickly in a skillet or short microwave bursts. For potatoes, add a little milk while reheating to keep them creamy.

Butter gives the best flavor, but margarine can work if that’s what you have.

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