1. Preparing the Potatoes:
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
2. Making the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the potatoes are draining, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the milk (or cream) to the butter and garlic mixture and heat until warm.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth. Gradually add the warm butter mixture, stirring until the potatoes are creamy and fluffy. If using, stir in the sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm.
3. Cooking the Steaks:
- Preheat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the steaks with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the steaks to the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Use tongs to avoid piercing the meat.
- During the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh thyme, and lemon zest to the skillet. Top each steak with a tablespoon of butter and let it melt over the meat.
4. Making the Lemon Herb Butter Sauce:
- If desired, deglaze the skillet with a splash of balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce slightly to enhance the flavor.
- Spoon the melted lemon herb butter from the skillet over the steaks.
5. Serving:
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the steaks with a lemon wedge for extra brightness.
- Plate the fluffy mashed potatoes alongside the steak and garnish with a bit more chopped parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
- Herb Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other herbs like rosemary or chives to the steak butter.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a stronger garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the mashed potatoes.
- Creamy Potatoes: For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use heavy cream and increase the amount of butter.
This Lemon Herb Butter Steak with Fluffy Mashed Potatoes is a luxurious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. The tender steak with its zesty herb butter and the creamy mashed potatoes make for a perfect pairing that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Enjoy this meal for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner!