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Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the perfect quick and flavorful dish for steak lovers. Tender, juicy cubes of steak seared to perfection and tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce make this an irresistible appetizer or main course. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with potatoes, veggies, or a simple salad.
This recipe saved me so many weeknights when I wanted something fancy but didn’t have hours to cook. Plus, it’s great for impressing guests without the stress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak: cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking
- 3 tablespoons butter: for rich flavor and perfect sear
- 4 cloves garlic minced: key to that irresistible aroma and taste
- Salt and pepper: freshly ground for seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: helps get a nice crust on the steak
- Fresh parsley chopped: optional for garnish and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Steak:
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Add steak cubes in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and butter is melted.
- Toss Steak in Sauce:
- Return steak bites to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
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Sometimes I add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors. It’s a little twist that takes it up a notch.
Storage Tips
Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small pat of butter to refresh the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have sirloin, ribeye or flank steak also work well. For a dairy-free version, swap butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic butter steak bites with crispy roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or steamed green beans. A side salad or crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce also pairs beautifully.
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Cultural Context
Steak bites are a popular appetizer and quick dinner option in American cuisine, often enjoyed in casual dining and home kitchens alike. The garlic butter sauce draws from classic French cooking techniques, adding richness and aromatic depth to simple, quality beef.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for steak bites?
Beef tenderloin offers the most tender bite, but sirloin or ribeye work well for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I achieve a perfect sear on steak bites?
Use a hot cast iron skillet, pat meat dry, and avoid overcrowding. Sear in batches for even caramelization and crust.
- → What type of potatoes work best for smashing?
Yukon Gold or Red Bliss potatoes hold their shape and yield a creamy interior with crispy edges when roasted.
- → Can I prepare parts of the dish ahead?
Yes, boil and smash the potatoes ahead and refrigerate. Prepare garlic butter sauce in advance. Sear steak bites fresh.
- → What cheeses work well for smashed potatoes?
Sharp cheddar and parmesan offer a rich, nutty flavor. For variety, try gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- → How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat steak bites covered with a splash of broth at 350°F. Crisp potatoes in a hot oven for 5–7 minutes to restore texture.