When it comes to indulgent comfort food, Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes and Pasta Salad is the meal that will make your taste buds sing! This delightful dish combines tender, juicy steak cooked in aromatic garlic butter, creamy mashed potatoes loaded with cheese and crispy bacon, and a refreshing pasta salad to add a touch of freshness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive weekend meal, this recipe has it all—savory, creamy, crunchy, and refreshing!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad
- Tender Steak: The ribeye steak is seared to perfection, and the garlic butter adds incredible flavor that melts into the meat.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The mashed potatoes are rich and decadent, with a perfect balance of cheese, bacon, and a touch of sour cream.
- Refreshing Pasta Salad: The pasta salad adds a light, fresh contrast to the richness of the steak and mashed potatoes.
- Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is filling and comforting, making it the perfect choice for any special occasion or when you’re craving something indulgent.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (or your preferred cut—ensure they are thick for juiciness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the steaks)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic garlic butter)
- 1 tbsp butter (for added richness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (essential for seasoning)
For the Loaded Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (if homemade, great! If using store-bought, that’s fine too)
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works great)
- 2 tbsp crispy bacon bits (for crunch and flavor)
- 1 tbsp sour cream (optional but highly recommended for creaminess)
For the Pasta Salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or any pasta of your choice)
- ½ cup diced cucumber (adds freshness)
- ½ cup diced tomato (for a burst of juicy flavor)
- ¼ cup cubed cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional, for extra herb flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
Start by seasoning both sides of your ribeye steaks (or chosen cut) generously with salt and pepper.
In a medium-high heat skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and heat it until shimmering. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks to the pan and sear them for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a juicy, medium-rare steak, 4 minutes per side works well.
In the last minute of cooking, add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tbsp butter to the pan. As the butter melts, spoon the garlic butter over the steaks to infuse them with flavor. Continue cooking for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once done, remove the steaks from the pan and set them aside to rest while you prepare the sides.
2. Prepare the Loaded Mashed Potatoes
If you’re using prepared mashed potatoes, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat and stir in some butter for extra creaminess.
To load up the potatoes, top them with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream (if you like extra creaminess). Stir these ingredients into the mashed potatoes until well combined, or just sprinkle them on top for a loaded effect.
3. Prepare the Pasta Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups cooked pasta, ½ cup diced cucumber, ½ cup diced tomato, and ¼ cup cubed cheese. These fresh ingredients add both color and crunch to the dish.
Toss everything together, then add a 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor. You can also season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Plate
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place a hearty serving of loaded mashed potatoes on each plate and serve alongside your steak. Spoon some of the garlic butter from the pan over the steak for added richness.
Add a side of pasta salad for a fresh and light contrast to the richness of the steak and mashed potatoes.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meal while everything is hot, and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish that combines savory, creamy, and fresh elements in every bite. Garnish the steak with a little extra garlic butter from the pan and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Grill the Steak: If you prefer grilling to pan-searing, grill the steaks over medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness.
- Use a Different Pasta Salad Dressing: While this pasta salad is fresh and simple, you can drizzle it with a bit of Italian dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette for added flavor.
- Customize the Mashed Potatoes: Feel free to add extra ingredients like green onions, cheddar, or even a touch of garlic to customize the mashed potatoes to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side of Vegetables: Roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus would be excellent additions to balance the richness of the meal.
- For an Extra Kick: Serve with a spicy ketchup or hot sauce for a zesty contrast to the creamy potatoes and juicy steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any cut of steak you prefer, such as sirloin, flank steak, or New York strip. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and your desired doneness.
Can I make the pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta salad up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick toss before serving.
How can I make the mashed potatoes from scratch?
To make mashed potatoes from scratch, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, sour cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes and Pasta Salad is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory, creamy, and fresh elements to create a satisfying and hearty meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. With its deliciously seared steak, indulgent mashed potatoes, and refreshing pasta salad, it’s the perfect comfort meal that checks all the boxes.