Garlic Butter Steak Bites
If you’re searching for a quick, delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe, you’ve come to the right place. These tender, juicy pieces of steak soaked in a rich garlic butter sauce come together in minutes, making them perfect for any meal—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive last-minute appetizer. The combination of buttery richness and savory garlic makes every bite a flavor-packed delight you’ll want to savor again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal fast.
- Flavor explosion: The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural richness of steak for an irresistible taste.
- Versatile dish: Works as a main course, appetizer, or even a protein-packed snack any time you crave it.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you likely already have, making it super convenient to cook.
- Great for any steak cut: Can be adapted easily depending on what steak you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Butter Steak Bites lies in its few simple ingredients, each lending a special touch of flavor, tenderness, and richness. Using quality steak and fresh garlic is key to making this dish shine bright in your kitchen.
- Steak: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for juicy, flavorful bites.
- Butter: Adds creamy richness that helps carry the garlic and seasoning perfectly.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that aromatic punch that defines the dish.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the steak and adds depth to the cooking process.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the beef’s flavor stand out beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note when sprinkled on top.
Variations for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or whatever you have in your pantry. It’s surprisingly easy to tweak Garlic Butter Steak Bites for dietary needs or to add fun new flavor twists.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the butter for a fiery version.
- Herb infusion: Mix in thyme, rosemary, or oregano during cooking for an earthy herbal profile.
- Low-carb style: Serve over cauliflower rice or leafy greens for a light, nutritious meal.
- Mushroom addition: Toss in sautéed mushrooms alongside the steak bites to boost umami flavors.
- Garlic butter shrimp: Swap out steak for shrimp but keep the same garlic butter sauce for a seafood twist.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by cutting your steak into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Sprinkle salt and fresh ground black pepper generously onto the steak bites. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavor of your beef without overpowering it.
Step 3: Heat the Pan and Sear
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and sear them until they develop a deep golden crust, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Butter
Lower the heat to medium and push the steak pieces to one side of the pan. Add butter and minced garlic to the empty side, stirring constantly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Mix the garlic butter into the steak bites, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another minute so the flavors meld perfectly, then remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Room temperature steak: Let the steak sit out for 15-20 minutes before cooking to promote even cooking and better searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and get a nice crust on the steak.
- Use clarified butter: It has a higher smoke point and prevents burning while giving rich buttery flavor.
- Fresh garlic beats powdered: Always opt for fresh minced garlic for the best aroma and taste.
- Rest before serving: Let steak bites rest briefly to ensure juicy, tender bites full of flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan brings color and a touch of freshness to the rich garlic butter steak bites.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal that complements the steak’s richness without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer or alongside steamed rice topped with sautéed greens for a hearty dinner. For a party, stack them on skewers with veggies for fun steak skewers everyone will enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover steak bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic butter sauce separate when possible to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
These steak bites freeze well. Lay them flat in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of butter or olive oil to keep the steak moist. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the tender pieces.
FAQs
What cut of steak is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon are excellent choices because they’re tender and flavorful, ideal for quick cooking in bite-sized pieces.
Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free butter and avoid any added sauces containing gluten.
How do I keep the steak bites tender?
Make sure not to overcook the steak, cook in batches to avoid steaming, and let the steak rest after cooking for the juiciest bites.
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed steak to get the perfect sear and texture. Cooking partially frozen steak can result in uneven cooking.
Is there a dairy-free version of Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil and still enjoy the amazing garlic flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a simple yet luxurious treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers juicy steak packed with buttery garlic goodness every time. Give it a try tonight and discover why this dish has become a favorite in so many kitchens!
Related Posts
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender, juicy pieces of steak cooked quickly and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This versatile dish is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner, an impressive appetizer, or a protein-packed snack. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, it delivers bold flavors and buttery richness that will keep you coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
Butter & Oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Cut the steak into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Pat the steak pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
- Season the Steak: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper generously over the steak bites to enhance the natural beef flavor without overpowering it.
- Heat the Pan and Sear: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear until they develop a deep golden crust, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Lower the heat to medium. Push the steak bites to one side of the pan and add butter and minced garlic to the empty side. Stir constantly until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Mix the garlic butter into the steak bites, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another minute so the flavors meld perfectly. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Let steak sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to promote even cooking and better searing.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and a nice crust.
- Use clarified butter for a higher smoke point and to prevent burning.
- Always use fresh minced garlic for best aroma and flavor; avoid powdered garlic.
- Allow steak bites to rest briefly after cooking for juicy, tender bites.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: garlic butter steak bites, quick steak recipe, steak appetizer, garlic butter sauce, easy steak bites
