
This irresistible recipe for garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce brings together everything I love about comfort food quick prep rich flavors and a finish that feels fancy enough for guests yet cozy enough for a family night. The combination of tender steak seared in aromatic garlic butter and then draped in creamy parmesan sauce over cheesy mashed potatoes makes this a memorable main dish especially when the weather turns chilly and everyone wants something warm and deeply satisfying.
The first time I tried this with friends during a snowy winter night it became an instant staple at our house and now my husband requests it every time he sees steak in the fridge.
Ingredients
- Steak: choose a tender cut like filet tenderloin ribeye or even sirloin for juicy bites look for bright red color and fine marbling for best results
- Butter: salted works best for flavor I never skimp because it gives richness to both steak and sauce
- Garlic: use at least ten fresh cloves plenty for bold aroma and flavor avoid pre-minced for maximum punch
- Heavy cream: brings creaminess to the sauce opt for a full-fat variety for a silky texture or swap in evaporated milk for lighter eating
- Parmesan: freshly shredded or grated adds salty depth to the sauce always choose a wedge over pre-grated for the best melt
- Potatoes: Yukon gold or Russet create fluffiest mash soak them briefly to release excess starch for a creamier finish
- Cheese for mashed potatoes: mozzarella or pepper jack melt beautifully and boost the cozy factor
- Green onions and fresh parsley: deliver fresh herbal flavor and lively color choose crisp greens and flat-leaf parsley for best texture
- Cajun or blackened seasoning: the spice coat for the steak gives a smoky kick homemade lets you control salt and heat level
- Avocado oil: is great for high-heat searing since it does not burn as quickly but any neutral oil will work
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut and Season the Steak:
- Cut your steak into bite-sized chunks about two to three inches each remember they will shrink slightly while cooking Rub the pieces with avocado oil then coat generously with Cajun seasoning on all sides Let the steak pieces rest at room temperature for ten to fifteen minutes This step allows the muscle fibers to relax and the seasonings to start infusing flavor into the meat
- Prep and Boil the Potatoes:
- Peel and quarter your potatoes Place them in a bowl of cold water for ten minutes to draw out excess starch which helps them cook up creamier While the steak is cooking if you want to multi-task transfer the potatoes into a large pot of salted water Boil until fork-tender which might take fifteen to twenty minutes depending on size
- Sear the Steak:
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat Add two to three tablespoons of avocado oil Once shimmering add steak pieces leaving space between each If your pan is smaller work in batches Sear without moving for about two minutes until a deep golden crust forms Flip each piece once using tongs Continue cooking for another minute then reduce the heat to low Turn each piece once more and let cook another two minutes for perfect medium Remove to a bowl Cover loosely with foil to keep warm and juicy
- Make Garlic Butter and Toss the Steak:
- To the same pan add two tablespoons of butter and a tablespoon of freshly minced garlic Cook on low heat stirring constantly until the garlic just turns fragrant Return the steak bites to the skillet turning them in the garlic butter until they glisten Remove again to the bowl and cover to trap in the garlic aroma
- Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce and Mash Potatoes:
- With the skillet still over low heat add another two tablespoons of butter plus the remaining garlic Let cook until aromatic then slowly whisk in heavy cream Simmer the sauce letting it reduce gently for about three to five minutes While it thickens mash your potatoes with butter cream and your cheese of choice until fluffy and smooth Fold in sliced green onions and parsley to the sauce Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese swirling until the sauce thickens Taste and add salt and pepper as needed For serving layer the steak bites over the mashed potatoes and douse everything in a generous spoonful of the creamy parmesan sauce

My favorite part has always been the bold parmesan sauce If you are like me and find yourself licking the spoon you are not alone There was a birthday dinner last year where my family actually asked for extra sauce on the side and now it is non-negotiable
Storage Tips
Leftover steak bites and sauce can be stored together or separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of cream to loosen the sauce if needed The sauce thickens as it sits but comes right back to life with a good stir
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to lighten the dish use sirloin steak for less fat or swap heavy cream for evaporated milk For a keto version replace the potatoes with mashed cauliflower and stick with quality parmesan for the best cheesy finish If Cajun seasoning is too spicy try a mild all-purpose steak rub
Serving Suggestions
These steak bites shine served over classic mashed potatoes but they work well with creamy polenta or even pasta Serve with sautéed green beans crisp asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for a pop of green and freshness

Cultural Context
This recipe is a modern play on the classic meat and potatoes dinner the kind of comforting dish that stretches from Southern US kitchens to steak-loving homes everywhere By adding a garlic parmesan cream sauce we nod to Italian-American comfort food with a twist hearty bold and always shareable
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What cut of steak works best for these steak bites?
Tender cuts like filet, ribeye, or sirloin are ideal since they cook quickly and remain juicy and flavorful when seared.
- → How do you achieve tender, juicy steak bites?
Let steak pieces reach room temperature before searing, avoid overcrowding the pan, and cook briefly over high heat for a golden crust.
- → How can I lighten up the cream sauce?
Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk and use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lighter take.
- → What sides pair well with garlic butter steak bites?
Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad balance the richness of the sauce and steak.
- → Can I make this ahead for guests?
Yes, you can prepare the steak bites and sauce in advance; reheat gently and serve fresh over your chosen side for best results.