Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Mash

Ingredients:
For the Steak Bites:

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak (or any steak of your choice), cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup (120ml) milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Place the peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer, adding the butter and milk. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to taste. Keep the mashed potatoes warm while you cook the steak bites.
2. Cook the Steak Bites:

While the potatoes are boiling, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak bites with salt and pepper.
Once the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan). Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
If using, add the soy sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce for about 1-2 minutes, until the steak is coated and heated through.
4. Serve:

Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
Top with the garlic butter steak bites and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired.