Introduction
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a delicious, quick-to-make dish featuring tender cubes of steak seared to perfection and coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This recipe is beloved for its bold flavors, crispy edges, and the luxurious combination of garlic and melted butter that elevates every bite. Whether served as a satisfying weeknight dinner or as an elegant appetizer, these steak bites deliver a crowd-pleasing experience in just 20-25 minutes.
What makes Garlic Butter Steak Bites especially popular is their simplicity combined with indulgence. Using quality cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip, the steak is cooked in a hot skillet to develop a flavorful crust while remaining juicy inside. The garlic butter sauce, often enhanced with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, adds a fragrant richness that complements the savory beef perfectly. This dish is versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for anyone craving a hearty yet speedy meal.
Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, Garlic Butter Steak Bites pair well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Their bite-sized nature also makes them perfect for serving as a flavorful appetizer at parties or gatherings, making them a must-try recipe for steak lovers looking for a quick and satisfying dish.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds steak (New York strip, ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or substitute with thyme or rosemary)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon chili flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive or avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Let cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes to form a crust, then flip and cook another 2 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same pan and melt it gently.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the fresh herbs and chili flakes if using.
- Return the steak bites to the pan and toss thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Use a cast iron or heavy-bottom skillet for the best sear and crust on the steak bites.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook the steak in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
- Allow the steak bites to sear undisturbed for at least 2 minutes before flipping to develop a deep, caramelized crust.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a finely diced shallot to the garlic butter sauce.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to vary the aromatic profile of the dish.
- For a spicy twist, sprinkle chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover garlic butter steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak bites in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Leftover garlic butter sauce can be saved separately and reheated to drizzle over vegetables, bread, or other proteins for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of steak for garlic butter steak bites?
Tender cuts like sirloin, New York strip, ribeye, or filet mignon work best because they cook quickly and stay juicy and flavorful when cut into bite-sized pieces. Choose steaks with minimal marbling for easy searing and clean flavors.
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed steak to ensure even cooking and a good sear. If using frozen steak, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cutting and cooking to avoid uneven texture.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning in the butter sauce?
Cook the garlic on medium-low heat and stir frequently. Garlic cooks quickly and can burn if the heat is too high, which leads to bitterness. Adding the garlic after removing the steak from the pan helps control the cooking temperature.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan butter or ghee. Use oils like avocado or olive oil for cooking and add garlic and herbs as usual to maintain flavor.
