Please share a recipe for making a beef-based dinner for 2 people on a budget of less than $200 using luxury foods you can buy at Walmart.

I asked AI.

Google Gemini Answer

Pan-Seared Wagyu Beef with Roasted Asparagus and Truffle Butter Mashed Potatoes (for 2 people)

This recipe features a showstopping ingredient, Wagyu beef, typically considered a luxury item, but can be found at select Walmart stores within your budget if you keep the portion size small.

Ingredients:

• For the Wagyu Steak:
  • 6 oz Wagyu beef ribeye steak (approximately 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
• For the Roasted Asparagus:
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• For the Truffle Butter Mashed Potatoes:
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk for extra richness)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp truffle oil (optional, can be substituted with regular olive oil)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wagyu steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side for a medium-rare cook. If using rosemary, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Roast the asparagus: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. Make the mashed potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. Mash with a potato masher or use a hand mixer. Add milk, butter, truffle oil (if using), salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
4. To serve: Slice the Wagyu steak against the grain and arrange on a plate with roasted asparagus and mashed potatoes. Drizzle any pan drippings from the steak over the potatoes for extra flavor.

Tips:

• Look for “Choice” Wagyu instead of “Prime” to stay within budget.
• Substitute truffle oil with regular olive oil if unavailable.
• Add a side salad with a simple vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• This recipe can be easily scaled up to serve more people, but keep in mind the cost of Wagyu will increase.

Budget Considerations:

• While Wagyu is considered a luxury item, a small 6 oz portion can be found within your $200 budget at select Walmart stores.
• Truffle oil is optional and can be substituted with regular olive oil, reducing the cost further.
• The remaining ingredients, such as potatoes, asparagus, milk, butter, and spices, are readily available and relatively affordable at Walmart.

Remember: This recipe pushes the boundaries of a typical “budget” meal, focusing on a luxury ingredient within a manageable price point. Adjust the ingredients or portions to fit your budget comfortably.