Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

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These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are everything you crave in a hearty, flavor-packed dinner, without the hassle of an elaborate recipe. Juicy cubes of steak are seared to perfection and coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or over a salad, they deliver big, satisfying flavor in just minutes.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something indulgent but quick, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings. With just a few ingredients and a hot skillet, you can have restaurant-style steak bites sizzling on your plate in under 20 minutes.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most out of your Garlic Butter Steak Bites, it’s important to use the right tools:

  • Cast Iron Skillet: This is the heart of the recipe. Cast iron provides even heat and helps create a golden, flavorful crust on the steak. It also holds heat well, essential for achieving that quick sear.
  • Tongs: Essential for flipping the steak cubes without piercing them and letting juices escape.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: For cutting the steak into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
  • Mixing Bowl: To toss the steak bites in seasoning before they hit the skillet.

Having these tools ready will streamline your process and elevate the outcome, giving you those beautifully browned edges and a tender, juicy center every time.


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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

  • Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): These cuts offer a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. You’ll want bite-sized cubes that sear quickly while staying juicy inside.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with bold flavor, creating that signature aromatic base.
  • Unsalted Butter: Rich and creamy, butter melts into the skillet, forming the golden sauce that coats each steak piece.
  • Olive Oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a layer of depth to the sear.
  • Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness.
  • Salt & Pepper: Simple, essential seasonings that enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
  • Optional: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes or Paprika: For a little kick or smoky depth, depending on your mood.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then cut it into even 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, toss with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil until coated.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it get shimmering hot – this is key for that perfect sear.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Add the steak bites in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Sear each side for about 2 minutes, flipping with tongs for even browning. Work in batches if needed to avoid steaming the meat.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Push the steak bites to the side and add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, then toss everything together to coat.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the steak bites, and if you like heat, finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.


How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Steak Bites

These steak bites are best served immediately while sizzling hot and buttery. They pair beautifully with a variety of sides — think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic green beans, or a fresh arugula salad. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower mash or sautéed zucchini noodles.

If you’re planning to use them as an appetizer, slide the bites onto skewers or serve them with toothpicks alongside a tangy dipping sauce.

To store leftovers, let the steak bites cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a small knob of butter to revive the sauce and prevent dryness.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as it can alter the texture of the steak once thawed and reheated.


Frequently Asked Questions

What type of steak is best for steak bites?

Sirloin and ribeye are top choices because they’re flavorful and tender. Filet mignon is also excellent if you’re going all out.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and garlic in advance, but it’s best cooked fresh to keep the edges crispy and the inside juicy.

How do I keep the steak bites from overcooking?

Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meat, and cook in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is highly recommended for this recipe, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder — about 1/2 teaspoon.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

A stainless steel pan can work, but avoid non-stick pans as they won’t give you the same caramelization.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even asparagus cook well with the steak bites — just add them after the meat is seared.


Want More Steak Dinner Ideas?

If these Garlic Butter Steak Bites won you over, you’ll definitely want to check out these other savory steak-inspired dishes:

Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a sweet and savory twist on pasta night.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta when you’re craving bold heat with creamy comfort.
Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake for cozy nights with bubbling cheese.
One Pan Creamy Cajun Honey Garlic Steak Pasta for a little southern spice and comfort.
Steak with Haunted Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce if you love experimenting with rich sauces.


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try extra garlic or add a splash of wine? Did you go spicy or stick to classic?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Ask questions, share tips, and let’s keep cooking better together.


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Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Steak Bites


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are pan-seared to perfection and tossed in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. Juicy, tender, and done in under 20 minutes, they’re the perfect weeknight dinner or party appetizer. Simple ingredients, maximum flavor.


Ingredients

1.5 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes or 1/2 tsp smoked paprika


Instructions

1. Pat steak dry with paper towels, then cut into even 1-inch cubes. Toss in a bowl with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to shimmer.

3. Add steak cubes in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Sear for about 2 minutes per side, flipping with tongs to brown evenly.

4. Lower heat to medium-low. Push steak to one side and add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir until garlic is fragrant.

5. Toss steak bites in garlic butter sauce until fully coated.

6. Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best sear, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed.

Let the skillet heat up properly before adding the steak to get a golden crust.

Reheat gently in a skillet with extra butter to keep the steak tender and juicy.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: garlic steak bites, butter steak, easy skillet steak

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