These garlic butter steak bites are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make.
I love making these when I want something quick yet impressive. Plus, they make great leftovers, too—if there are any left after my family gets to them! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking. If you’re on a budget or prefer something different, consider using flank or ribeye steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary with different cuts.
Olive Oil: It’s great for searing. You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if you prefer, but I find that olive oil adds a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil works well too!
Unsalted Butter: This is key for that rich, creamy sauce. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter alternative, or even a splash of olive oil at the end for a lighter twist.
Garlic: Fresh is best! If you don’t have any, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder can work in a pinch, though it won’t have the same punch. I love using roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If it’s not available, cilantro or even green onions can substitute. It just brightens everything up!
How Do I Ensure My Steak Bites are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak bites to the ideal doneness takes practice, but it’s worth it! Here are my steps to get them just right:
- Start by patting the steak dry—this helps to get that nice crust.
- Use medium-high heat. If the skillet isn’t hot enough, the steak will steam instead of sear.
- Cook the steak in batches. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and keep the meat from browning.
- Check doneness: For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure!
Remember, the steak will continue to cook a little after you take it off the heat, so don’t worry if it’s slightly below your target temperature when you remove it.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking time. With a total of about 20 minutes, you will have succulent garlic butter steak bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Bites:
Begin by patting the cubed sirloin steak dry with paper towels. This helps the steak brown nicely. Then, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper to flavor it well. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, pour the olive oil and heat it over medium-high until it shimmers. This indicates the oil is hot enough for searing.
3. Sear the Steak Bites:
Carefully add the steak cubes to the skillet in a single layer. If your skillet isn’t big enough, it’s best to cook in batches. Let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, allowing a golden brown crust to form. You want your steak cooked to your liking—medium-rare is usually around 130°F.
4. Set Aside the Steak:
Once browned and cooked to your preference, remove the steak bites from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them with foil to keep them warm.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, to avoid bitterness.
6. Combine Steak with Sauce:
Return the cooked steak bites back into the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce until they are well coated and warmed through.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the steak. If you like a bit of heat, now’s the time to sprinkle in those red pepper flakes!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the garlic butter steak bites immediately, drizzling any remaining buttery garlic sauce over the top. These bites are delicious on their own or paired with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak, ribeye, or tenderloin. Just be mindful of their cooking times as they may vary slightly from sirloin, especially if you’re aiming for a specific doneness.
What Should I Do If My Skillet Isn’t Hot Enough?
If your skillet isn’t hot enough, the steak will stew rather than sear, resulting in less flavor and texture. Simply increase the heat and give it a moment to heat up before adding the steak. You can also work in smaller batches to maintain the skillet’s temperature.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the steak and make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Store the steak in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with the garlic butter when you’re ready to serve. This will help ensure the steak stays juicy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.