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Texas Roadhouse-Inspired Cheesy Butter Steak Bites are tender, juicy pieces of sirloin steak seared to perfection, coated in rich melted butter, and topped with gooey cheddar cheese. This quick and flavorful recipe brings the bold, savory flavors of a Texas Roadhouse meal right into your kitchen. Whether you want an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these steak bites deliver satisfying taste and impressive presentation.
The first time I made these steak bites, my family couldn’t stop raving about the buttery richness and melted cheddar. Now they’re a requested favorite at gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients
- One pound sirloin steak: chosen for its tenderness and flavor, look for well-marbled pieces for juiciness
- Half a cup unsalted butter: adds a luxurious creaminess that coats each bite beautifully
- Two tablespoons olive oil: prevent the butter from burning and help achieve a perfect sear
- One teaspoon garlic powder: infuses the steak with savory depth
- One teaspoon onion powder: enhances the steak’s natural umami flavor
- Salt and pepper: to taste balance and elevate all other ingredients
- One cup shredded cheddar cheese: provides melty, sharp cheesiness, fresh shredding ensures smooth melt
- Two tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: optional for a pop of color and fresh aroma as garnish
Select fresh, high-quality butter and cheese for best flavor and melt. Cutting steak against the grain helps ensure tender results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Skillet:
- Heat a skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat until hot. Add olive oil to coat the bottom and prevent sticking. This initial heat is key for developing a golden crust that seals in juices.
- Season the Steak:
- Pat the sirloin pieces dry with paper towels to promote browning. Season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on all sides to build the flavor base.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Place steak bites carefully in the hot skillet, avoiding overcrowding to prevent steaming. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip and cook briefly on the other side if needed. Work in batches if necessary.
- Add the Butter:
- Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the melted butter. Stir gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Cooking with butter low and slow infuses rich flavor while keeping the meat tender.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the steak bites in the skillet. Cover with a lid to trap heat, allowing the cheese to melt evenly in about one minute.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the cheese has melted into a gooey topping, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately to enjoy the cheesy butter goodness at its best.
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One of my favorite parts of this dish is the golden crust formed during searing. It locks in moisture and delivers the perfect contrast to the melty cheese topping. Sharing these bites with friends has made many special moments feel even cozier — nothing beats the compliments after the first bite.
Storage Tips
Store cooled steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed freezer bag for up to two months, labeling with the date. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter or oil to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can dry out the meat.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Try ribeye or New York strip steak if you want a richer, more marbled base.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda to change the flavor profile.
- Reduce butter to half for a lighter version without losing too much flavor.
- For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese or add red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
- Over creamy garlic mashed potatoes to soak up every buttery, cheesy bite
- With roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli to balance the richness with freshness
- Served alongside buttery egg noodles or rice pilaf that absorbs the flavorful sauce
- As a party appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli
- Used as filling for steak tacos with fresh salsa and avocado for a Tex-Mex twist
Cultural Context
Inspired by the popular steak bites at Texas Roadhouse, a beloved American steakhouse known for generous portions and bold flavors. This recipe pays homage by capturing the essence of their signature appetizer, combining the rustic charm of seared steak and rich butter with the comforting gooeyness of melted cheddar, all crafted at home.
Pro Tips
- Use a cast iron skillet to develop the best sear and maintain consistent heat
- Always pat steak dry before seasoning to encourage browning instead of steaming
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches ensures each bite gets that perfect golden crust
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use different cuts of steak?
Yes, while sirloin is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, ribeye, New York strip, or tenderloin are great alternatives. Each cut can offer different levels of juiciness and richness.
- → How can I keep the steak bites tender?
Cut against the grain to shorten muscle fibers, avoid overcooking by searing until golden brown, and let the steak rest briefly after cooking to retain juices.
- → What cheese options work well for topping?
Cheddar melts smoothly and offers sharpness. You can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor and melt textures.
- → How do I prevent butter from burning during cooking?
Lower the heat before adding the butter and combine it with olive oil. This helps stabilize temperature and prevents bitterness from burned butter.
- → Can I prepare the steak bites ahead of time?
You can season and cut the steak in advance, but cooking just before serving yields the best texture and flavor. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
- → Is grilling an option for cooking the steak bites?
Definitely. Grilling on skewers or a grill pan works well. Afterward, toss with melted butter and cheese for the signature buttery coating.