If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors, you’re going to love this Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender, juicy steak cubes, sweet and caramelized potatoes, and crunchy bell peppers all coming together in one skillet. This meal is not only a feast for your taste buds but also comes together quickly, making it an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can create such a memorable meal. Each component in this recipe plays a starring role whether by adding sweetness, savoriness, texture, or color to brighten your plate.
- Sirloin steak, 1 pound: Choose a well-marbled cut for tender, flavorful steak bites that sear beautifully.
- Sweet potatoes, 2 medium: These add a natural sweetness and creamy texture that balances the savory steak.
- Bell peppers, 2 (any color): Chopped to add a crisp, refreshing crunch and vibrant color contrast.
- Small onion, 1 sliced: Optional but highly recommended for depth and sweetness as it caramelizes.
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: This is your cooking base that helps everything brown without sticking.
- Garlic cloves, 3 minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aromatic punch right at the end.
- Salt, 1 teaspoon: Essential to bring out all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- Smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon: Provides warmth and a subtle smoky note to the steak.
- Onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon: Boosts savory undertones.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: Brings herbal brightness and complexity.
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos, 2 tablespoons: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness to finish the dish.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: For a fresh, herbal garnish that lifts the flavors.
How to Make Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by microwaving the diced sweet potatoes for 4 to 6 minutes covered. This step softens them just enough so that when you sauté them later, they crisp up beautifully without turning mushy. It’s a nifty shortcut that saves time and keeps the texture perfect.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. While it’s warming, season your steak cubes generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Laying the steak in a single layer ensures they brown evenly. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes on each side so you get that gorgeous sear. Then, remove the steak and let it rest briefly—this keeps the bites juicy and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Add another tablespoon or two of olive oil to the skillet, then toss in your pre-cooked sweet potatoes. Stir them occasionally as they brown and develop a lovely caramelized crust over 6 to 8 minutes. This step transforms the sweet potatoes from soft to delightfully crisp on the outside with a soft interior.
Step 4: Add the Peppers and Onions
Next, throw in the bell peppers and sliced onions (if using). They sauté in just a few minutes until they are crisp-tender, which means they still hold some snap but have softened enough to meld with the other flavors. This brings a wonderful contrast in texture and fresh flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Finish with Garlic, Steak, and Soy Sauce
Push the veggies aside and add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then return your seared steak bites back to the pan along with any juices that have accumulated. For an extra punch of umami, stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or coconut aminos here. Toss everything together for a minute or two so the flavors marry perfectly and your steak bites soak in that savory goodness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving. This bright green herb not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness with its fresh, slightly citrusy aroma. Serve your Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers piping hot and watch it disappear from the plate!
How to Serve Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro are my favorite garnishes because they add a burst of color and freshness that makes this hearty dish feel extra special. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the top can also lighten things up beautifully. For some extra texture, try sprinkling toasted seeds or crushed nuts as a surprise crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish can absolutely stand alone, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette is an excellent partner. Roasted or steamed greens like broccoli or green beans also complement the sweet and savory elements nicely. You could even serve this with some crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful pan juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these steak bites over a bed of cooked quinoa or wild rice, turning it into a colorful grain bowl. Or scoop the mixture into warm tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and avocado for a steak taco night. You can also plate it family-style in a large skillet at the table, making it perfect for casual entertaining and easy sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option that tastes just as good reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely too. To freeze, cool the steak bites and veggies completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, a quick warm-up in a skillet over medium heat helps preserve the textures better than the microwave. Toss gently until warmed through and crisp on the sweet potatoes again. If using a microwave, cover loosely and stir halfway to avoid dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin works perfectly for juicy bites, you can use ribeye, flank, or even tenderloin. Just adjust cooking times slightly for thinner or thicker cuts to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the steak for firm tofu, tempeh, or seitan cubes, and use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce if needed. The cooking method stays the same and still yields delicious results.
Is it necessary to microwave the sweet potatoes first?
Microwaving jump-starts the cooking process so your sweet potatoes finish perfectly tender and golden. If you prefer, you can roast or boil them until just tender before sautéing, but the microwave saves time.
What if I don’t have coconut aminos or soy sauce?
You can substitute Worcestershire sauce or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a bit of tang and depth. Just keep in mind the saltiness may vary, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
How spicy is this dish?
This Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe has mild warmth from black pepper and smoky paprika but no intense heat. Feel free to add chili flakes or hot sauce if you want to kick up the spice level.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe quickly becomes your go-to when you want something hearty, flavorful, and just a little bit special without a lot of fuss. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, vibrant in color and packed with textures you’ll savor bite after bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
Steak Bites with Sweet Potatoes and Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these juicy steak bites paired with tender sweet potatoes and crisp bell peppers for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for serving
Instructions
- Microwave Sweet Potatoes: Start by microwaving the diced sweet potatoes for 4 to 6 minutes, covered, until they’re just barely tender but not mushy.
- Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2 to 4 minutes total, until nicely browned. Remove the steak to a plate.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Add 1 to 2 more tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the pre-cooked sweet potatoes and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and tender.
- Sauté Peppers and Onion: Toss the bell peppers and onion into the skillet. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until the peppers are crisp-tender.
- Add Garlic and Combine: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the seared steak and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce or coconut aminos if using, tossing everything together for 1 to 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top and serve the steak bites with sweet potatoes and peppers hot.
Notes
- Microwaving the sweet potatoes ahead reduces overall cook time and ensures they become tender without overcooking in the skillet.
- You can substitute sirloin steak with ribeye or flank steak depending on preference.
- Using soy sauce adds a subtle umami flavor; coconut aminos offers a gluten-free alternative.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper balances.
- Serve with a side of greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
