Ingredients
Method
Crisping the Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes
- Wash and dice the baby Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform 3/4-inch cubes. Microwave them in a covered microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of water for 3 to 4 minutes to par-cook their interiors (chef shortcut for ultra-tender centers and blistered crisp skins). Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced potatoes in an even single layer. Season with half the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottoms are deeply golden and crispy. Stir and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are crunchy and fork-tender. Transfer the potatoes to a warm plate and set aside.
Searing the Steak Bites to Caramelized Perfection
- Pat the cubed sirloin steak dry with paper towels—removing surface moisture is essential for a deep caramelized crust. Toss in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and remaining salt and pepper.
- Turn the skillet heat up to high. If the skillet is dry, add 1 teaspoon of oil. Add the steak bites in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap (cook in two quick batches if your skillet is under 12 inches to avoid steaming).
- Sear undisturbed for 2 full minutes to develop a dark mahogany Maillard crust. Flip and sear for another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side for a juicy medium-rare to medium center.
Basting in Garlic Herb Butter & Final Toss
- Reduce skillet heat to medium-low. Add the cubed European butter, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme leaves directly into the pan with the steak.
- As the butter melts and foams vigorously, tilt the skillet slightly and use a large spoon to baste the foaming garlic herb butter over the steak bites for 60 to 90 seconds until the garlic turns golden and aromatic.
- Return the crispy potatoes back into the skillet. Toss everything together vigorously for 1 minute until every potato cube and steak bite is glossy and coated in luxurious herb butter.
- Remove from heat immediately. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and flaky Maldon sea salt. Serve immediately right from the skillet or on a warm platter!
