If you’re hunting for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine tender, juicy morsels of steak seared to perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe makes weeknight dinners exciting and impresses guests alike when served as an appetizer. It’s a perfect harmony of rich and savory, simple yet indulgent—a true staple to have in your repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing the perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the seasoning that enhances the beef’s natural taste to the fresh herbs that add a pop of color and freshness.
- 1 ½ pounds steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon): Choose a tender cut for juicy bite-sized pieces that sear beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for drawing out flavor and seasoning the steak evenly.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the meat.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps create a golden sear and keeps the meat moist.
- 4 tablespoons butter: The star of the sauce, it creates richness and luscious texture.
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced (about ¼ cup): Offers a sweet, mild onion note that deepens the sauce.
- 6 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses every bite with that irresistible garlicky aroma and flavor.
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley: Adds a vibrant, fresh finish and a splash of green.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Step 1: Season the Steak
Start by patting your cubed steak dry; this is a game-changer for getting a perfect sear. Then, generously season the pieces with kosher salt, black pepper, and the red pepper flakes. These simple additions build a fantastic base flavor that will shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough for a satisfying sizzle. Add the olive oil, and once it shimmers, place the steak bites in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust. This caramelization locks in juices and gives the steak bites that irresistible texture. Remove the steak bites and set them aside for a moment.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the butter to the hot skillet. Stir in the finely diced shallot and minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant and soft. This quick sauté elevates the sauce, creating layers of buttery richness with aromatic depth.
Step 4: Finish the Steak Bites
Return the steak bites to the pan and lovingly toss them in the garlic butter sauce, letting them soak up all that garlicky goodness. Right before serving, stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbaceous flavor. This finishing touch takes the dish from delicious to downright unforgettable.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a bit of freshly chopped parsley or even some grated Parmesan cheese over your steak bites adds not only visual appeal but complementary flavors that enhance every taste bud. You can also try a drizzle of lemon juice for a subtle zing that brightens the plate.
Side Dishes
The Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread, which soak up any leftover sauce beautifully. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to serve these as an appetizer? Skewer individual steak bites with toothpicks for a fun and elegant party snack. Plating the bites atop a fluffy bed of polenta or creamy risotto creates a hearty main course that’s sure to impress at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for a quick and satisfying next-day meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak bites in a freezer-safe container or bag. Labeling with the date helps you keep track—they’ll keep well for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the juicy tenderness, adding a little butter or olive oil if needed to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving when possible to maintain that fantastic seared crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work best for tenderness, you can use other cuts like flank or strip steak—just be sure to slice them thin and watch your cooking time to avoid toughness.
Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?
Cast iron is preferred because it retains heat beautifully and creates the perfect sear, but a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan will also do the job if it gets nice and hot.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use extra olive oil for sautéing. You’ll still get plenty of flavor, though the richness will be milder.
What’s the best way to cut steak for bites?
Slice against the grain into bite-sized cubes to ensure tenderness—this breaks down the muscle fibers and gives you a more tender chew.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
You can prep the steak bites and sauce separately, keeping them refrigerated, then quickly reheat and combine just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting sizzle and smell of this Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe filling your kitchen. It’s easy enough for any weeknight yet impressive enough for guests, making it a fast favorite you’ll want on repeat. Dive into these flavorful steak bites and share the joy—they’re sure to become a cherished part of your cooking collection!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These garlic butter steak bites are tender, juicy, and ready in under 30 minutes! They make a perfect quick dinner or appetizer, featuring seared steak cubes coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with shallots and fresh parsley for a flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 ½ pounds steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (or other fresh tender herbs like oregano or thyme)
Instructions
- Season the steak: Pat the cubed steak dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season all sides evenly with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a balanced spicy flavor.
- Sear the steak: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add the olive oil and wait until it shimmers. Place the steak bites in a single layer in the pan and sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until nicely browned. Remove the browned steak bites to a plate and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the butter, finely diced shallot, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until the shallot is translucent and the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Finish the steak bites: Return the steak bites to the pan and stir well to coat them thoroughly with the garlic butter sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Patting the steak dry before seasoning is key for a proper sear and crust.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for best heat retention and browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing; cook in batches if needed to maintain heat.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with oregano or thyme for variation.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American