For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Kitchen Equipment:
- Large cast iron skillet (or any heavy-bottomed pan)
- Tongs for flipping the steak
- Knife and cutting board
- Small saucepan (for the garlic butter)
- Aluminum foil (for resting the steak)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Set them aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- While the potatoes are roasting, season your steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add some thyme or rosemary if you like extra herbs.
- In the same skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.
- Sear the steaks in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your preferred doneness. For a medium-rare steak, you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
- Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and let them rest under a loose tent of aluminum foil for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, thyme (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Remove the garlic butter from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the skillet with the roasted potatoes to the stovetop and drizzle them with some of the garlic butter. Toss to coat the potatoes in the rich butter and garlic.
- Slice the rested steak into strips and arrange them on the skillet alongside the potatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the steak and potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C); for medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).
- Rest the Steak: Letting the steak rest after cooking is essential for retaining its juices. Resting allows the steak to redistribute its juices, resulting in a more tender bite.
- Butter Baste for Extra Flavor: During the last minute of cooking the steak, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet and baste the steak with it for extra flavor.
- Potato Options: Baby potatoes are great for this dish, but if you prefer, you can use Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover steak and potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit more garlic butter to refresh the flavors. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.