
This garlic butter beef with creamy mashed potatoes is the kind of dish that comforts and satisfies every time. The tender, flavorful beef bites soaked in garlic butter pair beautifully with the rich, smooth mashed potatoes to make a meal that feels special but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. It’s perfect for dinner when you want something hearty and full of flavor without complicated steps.
I first made this on a chilly evening when I craved something warm and indulgent. It quickly became a family favorite, and now everyone asks for it when comfort food is on the menu.
Ingredients
- Beef steak (sirloin or ribeye) cut into chunks: choosing a well-marbled cut adds juiciness and flavor
- Olive oil: helps get a perfect sear on the beef
- Unsalted butter: key for that rich garlic butter sauce; unsalted lets you control the salt level
- Garlic cloves minced: fresh garlic is essential for the bold, aromatic flavor
- Salt and black pepper: basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavors
- Red pepper flakes optional: gives a subtle heat that wakes up the dish
- Worcestershire sauce: adds a savory depth and a slight tang that complements the beef
- Fresh parsley chopped: brightens and freshens the finished dish
- Russet or Yukon gold potatoes peeled and chunked: choose what you prefer; russets make fluffier mash, Yukon golds bring a creamier texture
- Whole milk or heavy cream: adds richness to the mashed potatoes
- Garlic powder optional: enhances the garlic flavor in the mash without overpowering
- Fresh parsley for garnish: a final touch of color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Beef Bites:
- Let your steak come to room temperature for 20 minutes and pat dry thoroughly—this step is crucial for a good sear. Season the chunks generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the beef pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a deep golden crust.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the pan with the browned beef. When the butter foams, stir in the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Cook gently for a minute or two until the garlic is fragrant but not brown. Toss the beef in this sauce to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- While the beef cooks, place peeled and chunked potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes, then drain well.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Return the hot potatoes to the pot and add butter, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Mash to your preferred texture, adding a splash more milk for creaminess if needed.
- Plate and Finish:
- Serve generous scoops of mashed potatoes and top with garlic butter beef bites. Drizzle any extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Store the beef and potatoes separately to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes to keep them creamy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the sirloin or ribeye for flank steak or even tenderloin chunks depending on your budget and preference. Use olive oil or any neutral oil if you prefer. Milk can be replaced with plant-based milk like oat or almond to make it dairy-free, and vegan butter can substitute regular butter in both beef and potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to brighten the plate. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce. For drinks, a robust red wine like a Cabernet pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Sirloin or ribeye steak chunks are ideal for tender, flavorful bites that sear beautifully.
- → How can I ensure the beef gets a good sear?
Make sure the pan and olive oil are hot before adding beef pieces in a single layer without overcrowding.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream in the mashed potatoes?
Whole milk works well, but heavy cream adds extra richness and creaminess.
- → What purpose does letting the beef sit at room temperature serve?
It helps the beef cook evenly and develop a better sear by removing the chill from the meat.
- → Should I peel the potatoes before boiling?
Yes, peeling ensures a smooth, creamy texture without any tough skin bits in the mash.
- → Can I add heat to this dish?
Red pepper flakes sprinkled on the beef before cooking add a subtle spicy kick.