Easy Weeknight Dinner: Steak and Mashed Potatoes
A Symphony of Flavors
This dish is a culinary masterpiece that marries the tender succulence of perfectly seared beef with the velvety richness of creamy mashed potatoes. The steak bites are infused with the aromatic essence of garlic, thyme, and rosemary, while the potatoes offer a comforting and indulgent counterpoint. It's a dish that's as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boiling the Potatoes: Begin by placing the cubed potatoes in a large pot and covering them generously with water. Season the water with a pinch of salt to enhance the potato flavor. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, typically around 15-20 minutes.
- Creating Creamy Perfection: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. While the potatoes are still hot, add the butter and milk (or heavy cream). Mash the mixture vigorously until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Sizzling the Steak Bites:
- Seasoning the Steak: Prepare the steak bites by generously seasoning them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step is crucial for developing a flavorful crust.
- Achieving a Perfect Sear: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the steak bites in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms and the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. Transfer the cooked steak bites to a plate and set aside.
- Crafting the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Stir continuously until the garlic becomes fragrant and begins to turn golden brown, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Infusing Flavor into the Steak: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the steak bites gently to coat them evenly in the flavorful sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure the steak is heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Assembling the Dish:
- Plating the Creation: Divide the warm mashed potatoes equally among serving plates. Arrange the tender and flavorful steak bites on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Finishing Touches: Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce generously over the steak and mashed potatoes. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with finely chopped parsley and chives.
Tips for Success
- For extra richness, consider using bone marrow butter in place of regular butter for the mashed potatoes.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Allow the steak bites to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor and temperature.
By following these steps and incorporating the provided tips, you'll create a mouthwatering and unforgettable meal that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy!
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