Skillet Steak and Potatoes: A Flavorful One-Pan Meal

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Nothing beats a restaurant-quality steak and potatoes dinner made right at home. This Skillet Steak and Potatoes recipe delivers juicy, seared steak with golden, crispy potatoes, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you are making a special dinner or need a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.

With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can have a meal that tastes like it came straight from a steakhouse. The steak is seared to perfection, then basted with garlic-infused butter, while the potatoes turn golden brown and crispy. Finished with fresh parsley and a touch of lemon juice, every bite is rich, savory, and perfectly balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pan Simplicity – Everything is cooked in the same skillet, making cleanup easy.
  • Perfectly Cooked Steak – Juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
  • Crispy, Golden Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes seared to perfection.
  • Rich Garlic Butter Sauce – Adds depth and enhances the steak’s natural flavors.
  • Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the potatoes achieve a golden, crispy texture.
  • 1 pound Yukon Gold or red potatoes – Cut into ¾-inch wedges for even cooking.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavor of the potatoes.

For the Steak and Garlic Butter

  • 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks (1-inch thick, about 12 oz each) – Alternatively, use ½ pound sirloin steak, cut into two pieces.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt – For seasoning the steaks.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds depth to the seasoning.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick) – Creates a rich, flavorful basting sauce.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the butter with a deep, aromatic flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (plus more to taste) – Brightens the dish with a hint of acidity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Skillet and Cook the Potatoes

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potato wedges to the pan, placing them cut-side down.
  3. Sprinkle the potatoes with kosher salt and let them cook undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden crust.
  4. Flip the potatoes to the other cut side and cook for another 10 minutes until crispy and tender.
  5. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

  1. While the potatoes cook, pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture (this helps create a perfect sear).
  2. Season both sides of each steak generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Once the potatoes are done, wipe out the skillet with a paper towel to remove excess oil but keep the flavorful bits at the bottom.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

  1. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
  2. Place the steaks in the pan and let them sear without moving for about 1 minute (they should release easily from the pan when ready to flip).
  3. Flip the steaks and cook for another 1 minute on the other side.
  4. Continue flipping every minute for a total of 4 minutes, ensuring even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Butter and Baste

  1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet.
  2. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic and tilt the pan slightly to pool the butter.
  3. Using a spoon, continuously baste the steaks by spooning the garlic butter over the top. Flip and repeat for 1-2 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:
    • Rare: 120°F
    • Medium-Rare: 130°F
    • Medium: 140°F
    • Medium-Well: 150°F
    • Well-Done: 160°F
  4. Once the steaks reach your desired temperature, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
  5. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain their juices.

Step 5: Make the Herb Butter Sauce

  1. To the skillet, add the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
  2. Let the mixture cool slightly and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

  1. Arrange the crispy potatoes on a serving plate.
  2. Slice the steaks against the grain into ½-inch thick slices to maximize tenderness.
  3. Place the sliced steak over the potatoes and drizzle with the garlic butter sauce.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Steak and Potatoes

  • Use a Cast-Iron Skillet – This ensures the best sear on the steak and even heat distribution.
  • Pat Steaks Dry Before Cooking – Moisture prevents browning, so dry them well for a perfect crust.
  • Don’t Skip Resting Time – Letting the steak rest before slicing helps retain juices.
  • Use Fresh Garlic, Not Powder – Fresh minced garlic adds bold, rich flavor to the butter sauce.
  • Adjust Cooking Time for Steak Doneness – Use a meat thermometer for precise results.

Serving Suggestions

This Skillet Steak and Potatoes pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
  • A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette.
  • A glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, for an elevated dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?

Yes! Sirloin, filet mignon, T-bone, or even skirt steak work well for this recipe. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What If I Don’t Have Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes?

Russet potatoes work, but they are starchier. To prevent them from becoming too soft, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking.

Can I Use a Different Oil Instead of Olive Oil?

Yes! Avocado oil or vegetable oil work well since they have high smoke points.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat steak in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to retain moisture.
  • Reheat potatoes in a skillet or oven to bring back their crispiness.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Steak and Potatoes recipe is a true winner for any night of the week. It’s fast, easy, and delivers steakhouse-quality results in your own kitchen. With perfectly seared steak, crispy potatoes, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner, or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe guarantees delicious results with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a five-star steak dinner in the comfort of your own kitchen!

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