Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic butter steak bites are my go to for a quick dinner or a crowd pleasing appetizer. You get savory bites of steak sizzling in a buttery garlic sauce all in twenty minutes and all in one pan. It is a simple yet luxurious way to cook steak that is endlessly versatile for busy days or special occasions.

The day I first tried these steak bites I wondered why I ever bothered with grilling. It is now my secret for last minute entertaining because everyone loves those buttery garlicky flavors.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak or ribeye or strip steak: Choose well marbled steak for the juiciest results and look for even red coloring and some fat marbling
• Salt and black pepper: Season generously freshly cracked pepper makes a big difference
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin oil for flavor and quick searing
• Butter: Real butter brings richness and helps create a glossy sauce go for unsalted if you want more control over seasoning
• Fresh garlic: Cloves minced fresh are best for the strongest aroma and sweetness avoid pre chopped jarred garlic which tends to be less flavorful
• Fresh parsley: Sprinkle for a burst of color and freshness pick flat leaf for a cleaner taste

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Steak:

Let your steak rest at room temperature for thirty minutes so it cooks evenly. Slice it into one inch cubes and season all sides with salt and pepper for a good crust.

Heat the Pan:

Warm a skillet over medium high heat for several minutes before adding olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. The pan needs to be hot enough to help the steak caramelize and form that golden outside.

Sear the Steak Bites:

Add steak cubes in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan or they will steam. Sear undisturbed for two minutes until the bottom forms a deep brown crust. Flip each piece and cook another two minutes for medium doneness. Work in two batches for the best results. Transfer seared steak to a plate and let it rest.

Make the Garlic Butter:

Lower the heat to medium low then add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir constantly for just one or two minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burned. The key is gentle heat to draw out the flavor.

Combine and Serve:

Add steak and their juices back to the skillet. Toss to coat each piece in the garlic butter sauce. Serve right away with fresh parsley scattered over the top.

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I always look forward to those crispy buttery edges that come from using a heavy cast iron skillet. My family remembers the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen and swipes steak straight from the pan. To me it is the definition of cozy cooking.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat so they stay tender. Avoid microwaving or the steak will lose its juices.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap sirloin for ribeye or strip steak or even filet if feeling fancy. For extra richness try adding a splash of cream with the butter. Fresh thyme or rosemary is a lovely substitute for parsley if you like herbal notes.

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Serving Suggestions

Pile steak bites onto toothpicks as a party appetizer. For dinner serve over rice mashed potatoes or roasted veggies to soak up the garlic butter. They pair perfectly with a crisp salad or buttery bread to mop up the sauce.

Cultural and Historical Context

Steak bites are an American steakhouse innovation turning high end steakhouse flavors into fast home cooking. Garlic and butter have always been the backbone of classic sauces like French beurre maître d’hôtel bringing comfort and indulgence to beef dishes everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Which cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak are excellent alternatives due to their marbling.

→ How do I achieve a perfect sear on the steak cubes?

Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak, avoid crowding the pan, and don't move the pieces around during searing.

→ Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh cloves?

Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but pre-minced can be used for convenience. Watch closely to avoid burning.

→ What sides pair well with these steak bites?

Serve with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?

Don't overcook the steak cubes—cook just until browned and juicy, and let the meat rest briefly before serving.

→ Is cast iron required for cooking?

Cast iron is preferred for even heat and superior searing, but any heavy skillet will work.