Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cheesy Steak Hash Brown Skillet?
It is a quick and satisfying one-pan dinner that combines marinated tender beef with crispy fried hash browns and melted aged cheddar cheese.
What type of steak is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of steak marinated in teriyaki sauce and cut into bite-sized pieces.
How should the steak be prepared before cooking?
The steak should be marinated in teriyaki sauce and then cut into small, bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns; simply fry them in the skillet with oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
What type of cheese is recommended for the topping?
The recipe recommends using four ounces of grated aged cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
What flavorings are added to the steak while sautéing?
The steak is sautéed with finely chopped red onion, crushed garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
Should I clean the pan after cooking the steak?
No, you should not rinse the pan. The residual juices and bits from the steak enhance the flavor of the hash browns.
How do I get the hash browns crispy?
Fry the hash browns in canola oil with seasoning salt and garlic powder over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
What level of doneness is best for the steak in this dish?
The recipe suggests cooking the steak to medium-rare, or slightly rare, before removing it from the heat to keep it tender.
How do I melt the cheese on top of the skillet?
Once the meat and potatoes are combined, sprinkle the cheese on top, reduce heat to low, and cover the pan with a lid or baking sheet.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
While the recipe specifies canola oil, you can use other high-smoke-point oils like vegetable or avocado oil.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is described as a comforting and delicious meal that is sure to impress the entire family.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 2-3 crushed garlic cloves for the steak mixture, plus garlic powder for the hash browns.
What are the primary seasonings for the hash browns?
The hash browns are seasoned with one teaspoon of seasoning salt and one teaspoon of garlic powder.
Can I substitute the red onion?
Yes, while red onion adds a specific flavor, you can substitute it with yellow or white onion if necessary.
Is this a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, it is designed for convenience, especially if the steak is marinated in advance.
What sauces are used in the marinade or during cooking?
The recipe uses teriyaki sauce for the marinade, plus Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce during the sautéing process.
How much hash brown potatoes do I need?
The recipe calls for 1/2 pound of hash browns.
Can I add vegetables to this skillet?
While not in the original recipe, bell peppers or mushrooms would make excellent additions to the steak and onion mixture.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot, straight from the skillet, to maintain the crispiness of the potatoes and the melt of the cheese.
What makes this dish different from a casserole?
Unlike a traditional casserole, this is a stovetop skillet meal that focuses on searing the steak and crisping the potatoes.
How long does it take to sauté the steak and onions?
The steak and onions are sautéed until the onions are translucent and the steak reaches your desired doneness, which is usually just a few minutes.
Can I use a homemade marinade?
Yes, you can use either a store-bought teriyaki marinade or your own homemade version.
Does the recipe include any sugar?
The raw ingredient list does not add sugar directly, though the teriyaki sauce used for marinating usually contains sugar.
Is this recipe considered a 'one-dish meal'?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal and a skillet dinner for easy cleanup.
What can I do if I don't have a lid for my pan?
The recipe suggests using a baking sheet as a cover to help melt the cheese if a lid is not available.
How much oil is used in total?
A total of 2 tablespoons of canola oil is used, split between the steak and the hash browns.
Should the steak be cooked all the way through initially?
It is recommended to leave it slightly rare when first sautéing because it will warm through again once mixed with the hash browns.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, though freshly grated aged cheddar often melts more smoothly and has a stronger flavor.
Is the garlic crushed or minced?
The recipe specifically calls for the garlic cloves to be crushed before adding them to the pan.