Some dinners just hit differently—and this one is all about indulgence. When I want something that feels elevated but still gives me that warm, cozy, comfort-food hug, I make Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Creamy Mash.
We’re talking tender cubes of seared steak, coated in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, nestled next to a scoop (or three) of velvety mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. It’s hearty, garlicky, and exactly what I crave when I want to treat myself without pulling out the white tablecloth.
Here’s how I make this dinner-for-a-king (or queen) in about 45 minutes—with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- Steak bites cook fast and stay juicy: You get beautiful browning in just minutes.
- The garlic-Parmesan sauce is pure decadence: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.
- Mashed potatoes keep things cozy: Soft, buttery, and a perfect balance to the richness of the steak.
- Simple, real ingredients: No shortcuts, just the good stuff.
- Works for special occasions or a cozy night in: Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for Tuesday.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your favorite cut), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Mash:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Step-by-Step: How I Make It
Step 1: Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes
I place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. A big pinch of salt goes in, then I bring it to a boil and let them cook for about 15 minutes, until fork-tender.
Mash Them Up
After draining, I return the potatoes to the warm pot. I mash in butter, cream, and milk until smooth and creamy. If I want to go all-in on flavor, I’ll stir in Parmesan and garlic powder. Then I season to taste and cover them to keep warm.
Step 2: Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites
Sear the Steak
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot and shimmering, I add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side. I want them browned and juicy, not overcooked. Once done, I remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, I melt butter and add the minced garlic. I sauté for about a minute—just until the garlic smells amazing and golden, not burned.
Then I pour in the heavy cream, stir in the Parmesan, and let it simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. A sprinkle of chopped thyme adds an earthy note that ties it all together.
Return the Steak
I toss the steak bites back into the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and stir everything together so every piece is coated in creamy, garlicky bliss.
How I Serve It
I spoon a big helping of mashed potatoes onto each plate, then pile the garlic Parmesan steak bites right alongside—or even on top, letting the sauce drip into the mash (trust me, this is the move).
I finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, maybe a crack of black pepper, and it’s ready to serve.
What to Serve With It
This dish is already rich and satisfying, but here are a few things I serve with it if I want to round out the meal:
- Roasted green beans or asparagus for a crisp, fresh contrast
- A light salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
- Warm rolls or garlic bread to scoop up every bit of sauce
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lime to sip between bites
Variations & Tips
- Use ribeye or filet if you want ultra-tender bites
- Add mushrooms to the skillet before making the sauce for extra umami
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes
- Try cauliflower mash if you want a lower-carb version
- Double the sauce if you like it extra creamy (and who doesn’t?)
FAQs From My Kitchen to Yours
Q: Can I prep any of this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can peel and dice the potatoes in advance (store them in water in the fridge) and even cube the steak and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
A: You can, but freshly grated melts smoother and gives better flavor.
Q: What’s the best cut of steak for this?
A: Sirloin is a great balance of tenderness and price, but ribeye or tenderloin take it up a notch if you’re splurging.
Q: Can I make this without cream?
A: You can sub with half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Creamy Mash recipe is one of those meals that looks fancy, tastes incredible, and comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for date night, a special occasion, or just want to treat yourself to something extra, this dish always delivers.
Savory, comforting, and totally satisfying—it’s the kind of dinner that earns a permanent spot in the rotation. And honestly? Once you taste that sauce drizzled over the mash, you’ll never look back.
Juicy, Flavor-Packed Steak and Buttery Mashed Potatoes—The Coziest Pairing You’ll Crave All Week
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your favorite cut)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- 4 tbsp butter (for mashed potatoes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Add the steak to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter and add fresh thyme, stirring for about a minute.
- In a large pot, add the potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the remaining butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the potatoes until creamy and smooth.
- Slice the steak into bite-sized pieces and serve alongside the buttery mashed potatoes.
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