
When I want a meal that feels satisfying yet a little bit luxurious, these garlic butter steak bites with a velvety cream sauce always deliver. Juicy cubes of steak seared for maximum flavor get doused in garlicky butter and nestled onto lush cheesy mashed potatoes, then finished with a silky parmesan cream sauce. This is a dish that impresses at a dinner party but comes together with straightforward techniques and pantry staples.
My family absolutely devours this every time and it is what I reach for whenever we want steakhouse magic at home without the restaurant fuss.
Ingredients
- Beef tenderloin or ribeye: The star of the dish. Use whichever looks freshest with nice marbling for tenderness.
- Avocado oil: Neutral high heat oil makes it ideal for searing without smoking.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds irresistible spiced warmth. Seek out one without fillers.
- Freshly ground black pepper and salt: These basics season both steak and potatoes. Layer the flavor throughout.
- Salted butter: The core of true garlic butter. Use European-style butter if possible.
- Garlic: Go for big fresh cloves and mince finely for full flavor release.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a luxurious sauce and mashed potatoes. Look for full-fat cream.
- Parmesan cheese: Buy a block and grate it yourself for best melt and flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: A touch of gentle heat to balance the richness.
- Green onions: For fresh sharpness and fluttery garnish.
- Potatoes: Yukon Golds mash up incredibly creamy but Russets will also work.
- Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese: The gooey factor in the mash. Choose one for classic or kick.
- Fresh parsley: For bright color and finishing touch.
Instructions
- Prep the Steak:
- Pat your steak dry with a paper towel then cut accurate cubes about five centimeters across. Rub generously with avocado oil then scatter over Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every side is well-coated and let the cubes rest so they cook evenly.
- Soak and Boil Potatoes:
- Put the potato quarters into a bowl of cold water for about ten minutes. This helps remove excess starch and makes your mash extra smooth. Drain off the starchy water and tip potatoes into a pot of salted boiling water. Simmer until very fork tender which takes around twenty minutes.
- Sear Steak Bites:
- Set a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. When hot, add a thin layer of avocado oil and lay out the beef cubes in batches. Give them space and let them sear two minutes before turning. Sear again so all sides have a deep golden crust. Adjust cook time for your perfect doneness. Then lift steak pieces out and keep covered.
- Make Garlic Butter Steak Toss:
- With the skillet over low heat, melt half your butter then sprinkle in half the garlic. Stir just until you smell the aroma, not long. Set the steak cubes back in the pan and turn them so each is gleaming with garlic butter. Spoon them into a bowl and loosely tent with foil.
- Build Cream Sauce:
- Still using the same pan, melt the last two tablespoons of butter and add the rest of your minced garlic. Sizzle briefly. Then slowly pour in the cream, whisking constantly. Let things simmer to thicken slightly, about three to five minutes. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, the sliced green onion and shower on grated parmesan. Keep whisking until the cheese dissolves and the sauce is velvet. Season to taste.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Once drained, drop potatoes back in the pot. Add butter, the cream, and shredded cheese and mash with a big spoon or hand masher until everything is smooth. Stir until cheese is melted through. Taste for salt and pepper.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon nice mounds of cheesy mash onto plates. Top with a generous portion of garlic butter steak bites. Spoon sauce all over and scatter with fresh parsley.

I love the first taste of the creamy parmesan sauce with those crispy-edged steak bites. The blend of garlic and butter recalls big family gatherings where everyone fights for the last spoonful of sauce.
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers quickly and store in airtight containers. The potatoes and steak will keep well for up to three days in the fridge. The sauce may thicken but you can loosen it with a splash of cream when reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap beef for boneless chicken thighs or even thick cubes of pork tenderloin. If you do not have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of cayenne. If avocado oil is unavailable, use light olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a bright green salad to add crunch and freshness. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli make classic sides. For a more indulgent meal, serve with buttery dinner rolls to mop up sauce.
Cultural and Historical Context
Steak with creamy potatoes and a butter sauce is a staple of hearty home cooking across Europe and America. Adding Cajun spices brings a little Southern flair while the parmesan cream sauce is a nod to classic French steak au poivre.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer try using fresh chives or tarragon instead of parsley. Swap potatoes for mashed cauliflower for a lighter version. Add sautéed mushrooms in autumn for added earthiness.
Success Stories
The first time I made this dish for friends it turned a casual get-together into a mini celebration. Everyone scraped their plates clean and I ended up sharing the recipe with half the group. Last Thanksgiving this even made the table alongside the traditional roast.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While best enjoyed fresh you can freeze the steaks and potatoes separately. Cool both dishes first then wrap tightly. Thaw overnight and reheat gently, adding cream to bring the sauce back to life.

These steak bites with parmesan cream sauce bring familiar comfort and just the right touch of indulgence. Make it once and it will become a favorite in your rotation.
FAQs about Recipes
- → How do I get the steak cubes perfectly browned?
Use a hot cast iron skillet, avoid overcrowding, and only turn the steak cubes once for a golden sear.
- → Can I substitute ribeye with a different cut of beef?
Tenderloin or sirloin also works well for this preparation. Choose cuts with good marbling for the best flavor.
- → What is the secret to creamy mashed potatoes?
Mash the potatoes with butter, cream, and cheese while hot, and avoid over-mixing to keep them fluffy and smooth.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to make the dish milder or spicier to your preference.
- → What herbs can I use for garnish besides parsley?
Chives or fresh thyme also add a burst of color and light herbal notes to complement the richness.
- → Is it necessary to rest the steak before cooking?
Allowing the steak to rest at room temperature helps achieve even cooking and a juicier result.