Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a simple, mouth-watering dish featuring tender chunks of steak cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. These little bites are packed with flavor…
By Emily
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a simple, mouth-watering dish featuring tender chunks of steak cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. These little bites are packed with flavor and have a wonderful, slightly crispy outside with a juicy, tender center. If you’re a fan of steak and garlic, this recipe is a real winner.
I love making these steak bites when I want something quick but still special. The garlic butter sauce makes the kitchen smell amazing, and it’s so easy to toss the steak pieces in it while they cook. My favorite tip is to use a cast iron skillet if you have one — it helps get a nice sear on the steak that makes every bite extra delicious.
These garlic butter steak bites are perfect served over a bed of mashed potatoes, with some crusty bread to soak up all the buttery garlic goodness. They also make a great appetizer when you’re having friends over. Whenever I make these, everyone asks for seconds because they just can’t get enough of that buttery garlic flavor combined with the tender steak.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are great for their flavor and tenderness. I like ribeye for its marbling, which adds juiciness. If you want a leaner option, try flank or strip steak, but cook carefully to avoid toughness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control salt levels. If you want dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil, but butter gives that rich, silky finish that’s hard to beat.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for vibrant flavor here. Garlic powder won’t give the same punch, but if you’re in a pinch, a bit can work.
Olive oil: This helps get a good sear and prevents the butter from burning too quickly. If you don’t have olive oil, use another neutral oil like canola or avocado.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the rich butter. Cilantro or chives can work as alternatives depending on what you like.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Your Steak Bites?
Getting a great sear means a crispy, flavorful crust without overcooking the inside. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the steak dry: Moisture prevents browning, so pat pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Leave space between pieces so they can brown properly instead of steaming.
- Use high heat: A hot skillet (cast iron works best) helps achieve that golden crust quickly.
- Let them cook undisturbed: Flip steak bites only once or twice, giving them time to form a crust.
- Finish in garlic butter: After searing, toss steak bites in melted butter and garlic off the heat to keep them juicy and flavorful.
Following these tips makes each bite tender on the inside and beautifully browned outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – perfect for getting a nice, even sear on the steak bites.
- Tongs – help you turn the steak pieces quickly without piercing them, so they stay juicy.
- Sharp knife – for cutting the steak into even cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing butter with garlic and parsley before adding to the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add red pepper flakes – for a little heat that pairs well with garlic butter.
- Stir in chopped mushrooms – they soak up the garlic butter and add a meaty texture.
- Use shrimp instead of steak – cook quickly and toss in garlic butter for a seafood twist.
- Mix in shredded Parmesan cheese before serving – adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the steak.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in around 20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Bites:
Start by patting your steak cubes dry with paper towels. Then, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This helps bring out the steak’s natural flavor and ensures a great sear.
2. Sear the Steak:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the steak cubes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Let the steak sizzle undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked to your preferred level (medium-rare to medium is ideal).
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, cooking for an extra minute to combine all those delicious flavors.
4. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over your steak bites and give everything a good mix. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to mop up the tasty garlic butter sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight and pat it completely dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture, which helps you get a good sear on the steak bites.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly to keep the steak tender.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
You can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if needed, but traditional unsalted butter adds the best rich, creamy flavor to the garlic sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
They’re delicious served over mashed potatoes, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce. For a low-carb option, try serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
