These garlic butter steak bites are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! Quick and easy to make, they’re cooked in a rich garlic butter that makes every bite feel special.
Honestly, they disappear fast at my dinner table! I love serving them with crusty bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for this dish due to its tenderness and flavor. You can use ribeye or tenderloin for a more decadent option, or if you’re on a budget, flank steak could work well too.
Butter: I use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning. If you’re trying to lower cholesterol, feel free to substitute with a light butter or a plant-based butter to keep that buttery flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as well – just use about 1 teaspoon. However, the fresh stuff really makes the sauce shine.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor. If you don’t have it, try fresh thyme or chives – they can add a different but still tasty note.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Searing on Steak?
Searing steak is key for maximizing flavor! The trick is to ensure your steak cubes are dry, as moisture prevents that beautiful crust from forming.
- Use a hot pan and don’t overcrowd it – give the steak room to breathe.
- Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side – this helps develop that brown color.
- Only flip once; constant movement interferes with the caramelization process.
With these tips, you’ll achieve a delicious, restaurant-quality sear every time!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1½ pounds sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal that’s ready in about 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by patting dry the steak cubes with paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture, helping achieve that beautiful sear. Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers. This will help sear your steak bites evenly.
3. Sear the Steak Bites:
Add the seasoned steak cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to have contact with the skillet for even cooking. Let them sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop that nice brown crust.
4. Flip and Cook Through:
Using tongs, flip the steak bites to sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness. Medium-rare to medium is recommended for juicy steak bites.
5. Add Butter and Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
6. Toss and Garnish:
Now, toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle with the fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy! Stir everything gently to combine.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat, and transfer the garlic butter steak bites to a serving bowl. Serve them right away for the best flavor. These delicious bites go wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or freshly baked crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh steak for this dish, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight. Avoid cooking it from frozen, as it won’t sear properly and could become tough.
Can I Substitute the Steak with Chicken or Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breast or thighs, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins will require varied cooking times to ensure they are fully cooked.
How Do I Know When the Steak is Cooked to My Liking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, you’re looking for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, aim for 135-145°F (57-63°C). Alternatively, you can use the finger test for doneness if you’re experienced!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or butter to maintain moisture. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook!
