Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix until well blended.
2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the richness of the butter.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Rub each steak with olive oil, then season generously with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your desired doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, add a dollop of garlic butter to each steak, spooning the melted butter over the top.
5. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board, loosely covered with foil, for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth.
3. Stir in sour cream, milk, and butter until creamy. Add shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and garlic powder, mixing well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta Salad

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
3. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle with fresh dill, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the garlic butter steak alongside a generous serving of loaded mashed potatoes and a scoop of chilled pasta salad.
2. Garnish the steak with an extra dollop of garlic butter for a luxurious finish.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the medley of rich, creamy, and fresh flavors.

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