Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quickly this dish comes together in one skillet, delivering all the comfort and flavor of a slow-cooked meal in just 30 minutes. The beef is seared to juicy perfection, the potatoes are buttery and crisped, and the garlic-thyme aroma fills the kitchen like a warm hug. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ideal for both weeknights and special evenings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 pound (450 g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

1. I pat the beef dry and season well with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. I sear the beef bites in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still medium-rare, then set them aside.

3. In the same skillet, I lower the heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon butter with the remaining olive oil, and toss in the potatoes. I season them with salt, pepper, and thyme, then sauté for 8–10 minutes until golden and tender.

4. I push the potatoes to one side, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and stir in garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using). I sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. I return the beef to the skillet, toss everything together in the garlic butter sauce, and cook for 1–2 minutes to warm through.

6. I sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and stir gently, adjusting seasoning to taste.

7. I serve hot—either straight from the skillet or transferred to a platter.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Variations

• I sometimes add mushrooms with the potatoes for an earthy twist.

• I switch thyme for rosemary or Italian seasoning for a flavor variation.

• I stir in a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the richness.

• I replace baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness.

• I serve it over rice or mashed potatoes when I want to stretch it into a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. I avoid the microwave if I want to maintain texture, especially for the potatoes.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for this?

I prefer sirloin or tenderloin—they’re lean, tender, and quick to sear without getting tough.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby ones?

Yes—I just dice them small for faster cooking and even browning.

How do I keep the beef tender?

I avoid overcooking—just a quick sear to brown, then I finish gently in the butter at the end.

Can I make this in advance?

It’s best fresh, but I do prep everything ahead and cook right before serving for convenience.

Is this freezer-friendly?

I don’t recommend freezing—it changes the texture of the potatoes and beef. But it stores well in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes recipe is my go-to when I want cozy, comforting food without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s bold, buttery, and packed with flavor—sure to become a staple in your dinner lineup too.