Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of juicy steak cooked perfectly and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. These bites are tender on the inside with a nice,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of juicy steak cooked perfectly and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. These bites are tender on the inside with a nice, flavorful sear on the outside, making them super satisfying. The garlic butter adds that wonderful punch that makes every bite taste amazing.
I love making these when I want something quick but still feel like a special treat. They come together fast, and the kitchen smells like a steakhouse right at home! A trick I swear by is adding fresh parsley at the end — it gives that fresh touch and a little pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
These steak bites are great on their own as a snack or paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a salad for a tasty dinner. I find that they’re perfect for sharing, too, especially when friends come over for a casual night. Every time I make them, people ask for the recipe, and honestly, I don’t blame them — they’re just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: I like sirloin for these bites because it’s tender and flavorful without being too expensive. You can also use ribeye, strip steak, or even tenderloin if you want something fancier. Just pick good quality steak for the best taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference here — it gives a strong, vibrant flavor. If you want a milder taste, you could use garlic powder, but fresh is best for that punch of flavor.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds rich flavor and a silky sauce, while olive oil helps get a nice sear on the steak. If you want, you can swap olive oil for avocado oil or another cooking oil with a high smoke point.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and taste-wise. You can skip it or use other fresh herbs like cilantro or chives if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Get the Steak Bites Perfectly Seared and Tender?
The secret to tender, tasty steak bites is a hot pan and not crowding it!
- Pat the steak dry before cooking. Moisture creates steam and stops the steak from browning.
- Use a heavy pan (cast iron is my favorite) and get it hot before adding the steak.
- Cook in batches if needed, so each piece gets direct contact with the pan for a good crust.
- Don’t move the steak too much while searing; let it sit for 2-3 minutes per side to develop that deep color.
- Finish by tossing the steak in garlic butter off the heat to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – It heats evenly and gives a great sear for the steak bites.
- Tongs – Perfect for flipping the steak pieces without piercing them, keeping juices inside.
- Sharp knife – Helps you cut the steak into even cubes quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – Gives a sturdy surface for cutting the steak without damaging your counters.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme with the garlic butter for an earthy twist.
- Swap sirloin for ribeye for a richer, more marbled steak bite experience.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the steak bites just before serving for a cheesy touch.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to the pan before the steak for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. The steak cooks quickly in just a few minutes, and you’ll spend only a short time making the garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect when you want something delicious on the table fast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture—this helps you get a great sear. Season the pieces generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat olive oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak bites in a single layer without crowding the pan (cook in batches if needed). Let them cook 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Then, remove them and set aside.
3. Make Garlic Butter & Combine:
Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. When melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant (but not browned). Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Add the chopped parsley and, if desired, red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well.
4. Serve:
Take the pan off the heat and serve the steak bites right away. Spoon any leftover garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before cutting it into cubes. This helps ensure even cooking and a better sear.
How Do I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to keep the steak tender.
Can I Substitute Butter or Oil?
Absolutely! You can use ghee or margarine instead of butter, and avocado or canola oil instead of olive oil. Just use oils with a high smoke point to get a good sear.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes while tossing the steak in the garlic butter, or sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat. Adjust to your taste preference!