Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of tender steak cooked just right and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. They’re simple, packed with flavor, and have that perfect…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of tender steak cooked just right and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. They’re simple, packed with flavor, and have that perfect crisp on the outside while staying juicy inside. It’s a straightforward dish that feels special without needing a lot of fuss.
I love making these when I want something satisfying but fast. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter is always a winner in my kitchen, and the steak bites cook up quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights. I usually sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top just for a pop of color and extra freshness.
My favorite way to serve these steak bites is with a side of roasted potatoes or some crusty bread to soak up all the garlic butter goodness. They’re also perfect for sharing as a snack or appetizer when friends come over. Whenever I make them, people always ask for seconds, which makes me feel proud every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are perfect for tender, juicy bites. Sirloin is leaner, while ribeye has more fat for flavor. If you prefer something leaner, try flank steak but slice thinly to avoid toughness.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds rich flavor, and olive oil helps reach a higher searing temperature. If you want a dairy-free option, use avocado oil instead of butter, but garlic-infused butter adds a lovely taste you don’t want to miss.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here for that rich, aromatic punch. Minced or finely chopped works best for quick cooking. Avoid garlic powder—it won’t give the same fresh flavor or texture.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro can work for a different twist, or simply a sprinkle of chives for mild freshness.
How Do You Get a Perfect Sear on Steak Bites Without Overcrowding?
The secret to flavorful steak bites with great texture is a good sear, which needs space and heat. Here’s how:
- Pat steak dry to remove moisture—wet meat steams rather than sears.
- Use a hot pan and add oil before putting in the meat.
- Cook the steak in a single layer without crowding. If your pan is small, cook in batches to avoid lowering the pan temperature.
- Don’t move the steak while searing—leave it for at least 2-3 minutes to develop a nice crust.
- Flip and cook to your preferred doneness quickly; steak bites are small, so they cook fast.
Following these tips, your steak bites will be nicely browned on the outside and juicy inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – A heavy-bottomed pan helps get a good sear on the steak bites without burning.
- Tongs – Perfect for turning the steak pieces safely and easily for even cooking.
- Sharp knife – You’ll want a sharp knife to cut the steak into uniform bite-sized cubes quickly and cleanly.
- Cutting board – A sturdy board gives you a safe surface to cut your steak and prep garlic.
- Measuring spoons – Handy for measuring butter, oil, and seasonings precisely to keep the balance just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak for chicken thighs cut into bites for a lighter option that stays juicy and works well with garlic butter.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when cooking garlic for a gentle, warming heat.
- Stir in chopped fresh rosemary or thyme with the parsley for an herby twist that pairs beautifully with beef.
- Toss in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers in the pan with the steak for added veggies and texture.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: crusty bread slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have delicious garlic butter steak bites ready in around 20 minutes total—perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Bites:
Pat your steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture—this helps to get a nice sear. Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the steak cubes to season well.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Let them cook without moving for about 2-3 minutes to get a good brown crust.
Flip the steak bites and cook for another 2-3 minutes if you like medium-rare, or cook a little longer if you want them more done. Once cooked, take the steak bites out of the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce and Combine:
Turn the heat down to medium. Add the butter to the same pan, and once it melts, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring constantly—be careful not to burn the garlic.
Put the steak bites back into the pan and toss them in the buttery garlic sauce so each piece is nicely coated. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley for a fresh flavor and nice color.
Take the pan off the heat and serve the steak bites right away. If you like, add some crusty bread on the side to soak up that amazing garlic butter sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and cooking. Cooking frozen steak cubes can lead to uneven doneness and a less tasty sear.
How Can 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 keep the steak tender, or briefly in the microwave.
Can I Substitute Garlic Butter with Other Flavors?
Absolutely! While garlic butter is classic here, you can try herb butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a dash of soy sauce for a different twist on flavor.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
They’re great with roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread to mop up the delicious garlic butter sauce.