Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little nuggets of tender, juicy steak cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The crispy edges and melting butter combine to…
Tip: save now, cook later.Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little nuggets of tender, juicy steak cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The crispy edges and melting butter combine to create a simple, delicious dish that’s full of bold, comforting flavors. They come together quickly, making them a perfect choice for a flavorful meal on busy nights.
I love making these steak bites because they’re so easy to whip up and always impress. The garlic butter sauce is the star here—it adds just the right amount of richness and a burst of flavor with every bite. I usually let the steak rest just a minute after cooking so all the juices stay nice and locked in, which makes every mouthful extra satisfying.
My favorite way to enjoy these is with some crusty bread on the side to soak up all the buttery goodness. They also pair great with a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies to keep things balanced. Whenever I make these steak bites, everyone at the table ends up reaching for seconds—and sometimes even thirds—because they’re just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are best for tender, juicy bites with great flavor. If you want a leaner option, top sirloin works well too. Avoid fatty cuts that don’t sear nicely.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter brings rich flavor and creaminess, while olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning. You can swap olive oil for avocado oil if you prefer a milder taste with a higher smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that strong, fresh garlicky punch. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work, but add less since it’s more concentrated.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a little heat. You can leave them out or replace with smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness. Fresh parsley is best, but dried can be used in a pinch (use less).
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared, Juicy Steak Bites?
The secret is to work with a hot pan and dry steak pieces to ensure a good crust and keep juices locked in.
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning to help it brown instead of steam.
- Use a hot pan and enough oil to coat the bottom but not drown the steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to get even searing.
- Once the steak is in the pan, leave it untouched for a few minutes to form a nice browned crust.
- Flip once; avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender—medium rare to medium works great.
- Let the steak rest off heat for a minute before serving to keep it juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet – I love it because it gets really hot and helps you get a great sear on the steak bites.
- Tongs – perfect for flipping steak cubes without piercing them, so the juices stay inside.
- Sharp knife – makes cutting the steak into even, bite-sized pieces quick and easy.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface to prep your steak safely and cleanly.
- Spoon or spatula – ideal for stirring the garlic butter sauce and coating the steak evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak for chicken breast or thighs for a lighter or budget-friendly option that still tastes great with garlic butter.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end to brighten the rich garlic butter flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a nice texture contrast.
- Try fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic for a fragrant, earthy touch that pairs well with steak.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty option perfect for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Bites:
Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out their flavor.
2. Sear the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the steak cubes in a single layer—avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Let the steak cook without moving for about 2 to 3 minutes so it can develop a nice brown crust. Then flip each piece and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. I recommend medium rare to medium for the best texture.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce and Combine:
Remove the steak bites and set them aside on a plate. Turn the heat down to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to brown. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, cooking together for another minute so the flavors blend beautifully.
4. Finish and Serve:
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites and toss once more. If you like, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra savory flavor. Serve your garlic butter steak bites right away—over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and cooking. Cooking frozen steak cubes may result in uneven cooking and less flavorful bites.
How Should 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 to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prep the steak cubes and garlic butter mixture in advance, but it’s best to cook and combine them fresh for the best flavor and texture.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
They’re delicious over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. Crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce and a fresh green salad or roasted veggies make great accompaniments.
