Some recipes hit the spot every single time. Garlic butter steak bites is one of them. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just yourself, this recipe will be your go-to for something satisfying.
This garlic butter steak bites recipe will tell you everything you need to know for making the perfect garlic butter steak bites.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a full pantry. Just a few staples:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye, NY strip – any tender cut)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Optional extras:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
The steak matters. You want a tender cut that cooks fast. Sirloin is affordable and flavorful. Ribeye is richer and more buttery. NY strip works well too.
Avoid tough cuts like chuck or round unless you’re slow cooking. For this recipe, tenderness is key. Whatever cut you use, trim off extra fat, then cut into even bite-sized cubes—about 1 inch each.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s the breakdown:
1. Prep the Steak
Take your steak out of the fridge and let it rest at room temp for 20–30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Cut the steak into cubes.
Pat them dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear in Batches
Heat a large skillet (cast iron is best) over high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed. You want space between the steak pieces so they sear, not steam.
Cook the steak cubes for 2–3 minutes, flipping to sear all sides. You’re looking for a brown, crispy exterior. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and repeat with the next batch.
3. Add Garlic Butter
Turn the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the pan. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly. Garlic burns fast—don’t walk away. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Now, return the steak bites to the pan. Toss everything together in the garlic butter for another minute or two. Turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley. Done.
Tips for Perfect Steak Bites
- Use high heat for searing – A hot pan gives you that golden crust.
- Dry steak = crispy crust – Always pat your cubes dry before cooking.
- Don’t stir constantly – Let them sit to brown properly before flipping.
- Finish with butter, not start – If you add butter too early, it’ll burn.
- Rest after cooking – Let steak sit a few minutes before serving. Juices redistribute.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy potatoes are a classic pairing. Spoon those buttery steak bites over a mound of mash and watch it disappear.
2. Garlic Rice
Double down on garlic. White rice tossed with a bit of garlic butter makes an easy base.
3. Roasted Veggies
Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and salt balance the richness of the steak.
4. A Fresh Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the fat and keeps things refreshing.
5. Crusty Bread
Mop up the garlic butter with a slice of warm bread. You won’t regret it.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is endlessly customizable:
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed chili flakes or drizzle with sriracha.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a garlic butter cream sauce.
- Asian Twist: Swap butter for sesame oil and garlic for ginger. Toss with soy sauce and scallions.
- Lemon Zing: A squeeze of lemon brightens everything and balances the richness.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
Steak bites store well. Let them cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: use a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through. Microwave works, but you’ll lose that crispy edge. You can also repurpose leftovers:
- Add to salads.
- Toss into pasta.
- Make steak tacos.
- Pile on toast with a fried egg.
Quick and delicious all over again.
Can You Use Other Proteins?
Absolutely. Try the same garlic butter treatment with:
- Chicken breast chunks
- Shrimp
- Tofu cubes (for a vegetarian version)
Each cooks differently, so adjust time accordingly. But the garlic butter magic stays the same.
Related: Garlic Bread Recipe You’ll Love!
Conclusion
Garlic butter steak bites are proof that simple food can be stunning.
So next time you need a quick dinner or a party appetizer that wows—skip the steakhouse. Fire up the skillet. Make these steak bites instead.
