Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender, bite-sized pieces of steak seared to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, an appetizer, or even a meal prep option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—ready in under 20 minutes
- Uses simple, readily available ingredients
- Perfect for a main dish or appetizer
- Rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor
- Great for meal prep and pairs well with various sides
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Steak (such as sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
- Salt and black pepper
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
- Prepare the steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up.
- Sear the steak bites: Place the steak pieces in the hot pan in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes or until desired doneness is reached. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine: Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another minute to coat the steak well.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Herb Butter: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the butter for additional flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the steak bites before serving.
- Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce and sesame oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Garlic Butter: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the butter sauce for a richer texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the steak tough.
- Freezing: While not recommended for best texture, you can freeze cooked steak bites for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I make sure the steak bites stay tender?
Use high-quality steak, do not overcook, and let the steak rest before serving to retain juices.
What is the best steak cut for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip work best due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to get a good sear.
What sides pair well with garlic butter steak bites?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement the steak well.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for flavor, but margarine can be used as a substitute.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to my preference?
Use a meat thermometer: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter or a combination of olive oil and garlic.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can use garlic powder, but fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
How can I make this meal healthier?
Use lean steak cuts and reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as a main dish or appetizer. With a rich garlic butter sauce and perfectly seared steak, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether served with a side of vegetables or over mashed potatoes, it is a satisfying dish that is simple yet impressive. Try it today for a delicious and effortless meal!
Print
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, they make the perfect quick dinner or appetizer. Serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium-low, then add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Combine & serve: Return the steak to the pan, toss in the garlic butter, and cook for another minute. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot!
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
- Adjust seasoning or add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: American