Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, black pepper and 2 teaspoons of the salt into a small bowl and stir to combine.

In a medium bowl add the steak tips, 2 tbsp of the vegetable oil, and half of the spice mixture, and stir to combine. Set aside and allow to marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes, up to an hour.

While the beef is marinating, peel and cube the potatoes. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tsp of salt and set in a shallow bowl or deep plate like a pie plate, and spread them out a bit.

Microwave potatoes on high for 4 minutes. Gently stir, and microwave for another 2-4 minutes, until potatoes are just fork tender (known as par-cooked). Set aside.

Heat a deep skillet on medium high heat, and add just a bit of neutral cooking oil. Add steak tips and cook 2-3 minutes on each side, till seared but not cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Stir in the other half of the spice mix to the potatoes and toss to combine and coat. Heat remaining vegetable oil in pan on medium heat. Add potatoes, minced garlic and 2 tbsp of the butter, and cook for about 10 minutes till easily pierced with a fork, stirring often.

Add steak to pan with potatoes, and remaining 2 tbsp of butter, and cook till heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Serve immediately.