Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad

#### 2. **Make the Pasta Salad**
While the potatoes are cooking, you can prepare the pasta salad.

– Cook the **rotini** (or elbow macaroni) according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.
– In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the **cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion**, and **black olives**.
– In a small bowl, whisk together the **olive oil**, **red wine vinegar**, **Dijon mustard**, and **dried oregano**. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
– Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine. If you like, you can add some **feta cheese** for an extra burst of flavor.
– Chill the pasta salad in the fridge while you cook the steak.

#### 3. **Cook the Garlic Butter Steak**
Now, let’s cook the star of the dish—the steak!

– Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the **steaks** generously with **salt** and **pepper** on both sides.
– When the skillet is hot, add the steaks and cook for about **4-5 minutes per side** (for medium-rare). Adjust the time if you prefer your steak more well-done.
– Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, lower the heat and add the **butter** to the pan. Let it melt, and then add the **minced garlic**, **thyme**, and **rosemary**.
– Spoon the garlic butter over the steaks while they cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to soak into the meat.
– Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them.

#### 4. **Serve the Meal**
Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your plate!

– Slice the **garlic butter steaks** against the grain and arrange them on each plate.
– Add a generous serving of **loaded mashed potatoes** on the side.
– Serve the **pasta salad** with the steaks and potatoes, adding some extra chopped chives or crumbled feta if desired for garnish.

### Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad

– **Choose Your Steak Cut**: Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon all work well in this recipe. Ribeye is a great choice for flavor and tenderness, but feel free to use your favorite cut of steak.
– **Don’t Overcook the Steak**: For the best steak, be sure to cook it to your desired level of doneness. A meat thermometer is helpful for precision: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.
– **Make the Mashed Potatoes Creamy**: The key to creamy mashed potatoes is the right balance of butter, sour cream, and milk. Add the milk gradually until you reach the perfect consistency.
– **Customize the Pasta Salad**: You can mix and match the veggies in the pasta salad. Bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted vegetables can add a unique twist.
– **Use Fresh Herbs**: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor of the garlic butter sauce, but dried herbs work in a pinch.

### Why Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad Is a Winner

This **Garlic Butter Steak with Loaded Mashed Potatoes & Pasta Salad** is the kind of meal that’s sure to impress. It has everything you need for a well-rounded dinner: a juicy, flavorful steak, creamy mashed potatoes with all the fixings, and a vibrant pasta salad to balance the richness. The garlic butter sauce for the steak adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this meal is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of textures and flavors ensures there’s something for everyone, and it’s a dish that brings joy with every bite. Enjoy the savory goodness of garlic butter steak, the creamy perfection of loaded mashed potatoes, and the fresh crunch of pasta salad all in one unforgettable plate.