Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a sizzling, flavor-packed dish that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Each cube of steak is seared to golden-brown perfection, locking in its rich juices, while being bathed in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. The result is tender, juicy bites bursting with savory flavor and finished with a hint of freshness from chopped herbs.

This dish brings restaurant-quality steak right to your home kitchen in under 20 minutes. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or when you’re just craving something indulgent yet effortless. Serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even slide the bites into a wrap or salad for a gourmet twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Big Flavor: A rich blend of garlic, butter, and seared steak makes every bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Works as a snack, main course, or party appetizer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Juicy, tender, and irresistibly buttery—loved by steak enthusiasts and casual eaters alike.
• Minimal Cleanup: Just one pan is needed to pull off this mouthwatering meal.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make Garlic Butter Steak Bites perfectly, the right tools matter almost as much as the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: This is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust on the steak bites. Cast iron retains and distributes heat evenly, ensuring a great sear.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the steak bites quickly and safely without piercing the meat and letting the juices escape.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: A good knife ensures clean, even cubes of steak, which helps them cook uniformly.
• Cutting Board: Preferably a wooden or plastic one, reserved for meats to keep things sanitary.
• Mixing Bowl: For seasoning and tossing the steak before cooking.

Using these tools helps preserve the texture and flavor of the beef while making the cooking process smooth and efficient.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the Steak Dry: Moisture is the enemy of browning. Use paper towels to dry the meat thoroughly before cooking.
• Cut Even Cubes: Uniform pieces mean even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding causes the steak to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use High Heat: A hot pan is key to caramelizing the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the steak bites sit for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

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Ingredients for This Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these buttery, garlicky steak bites at home:

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor contrast

These ingredients are simple, but they combine to create a dish that’s rich, bold, and packed with depth. Using quality steak and fresh garlic makes all the difference in taste.

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Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak

Start by cutting the steak into even 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels—this step is key to getting a beautiful sear. Once dry, season generously with salt and black pepper to bring out the natural flavors of the beef.

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Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering hot. Add the steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a deep, golden crust. Then flip and sear the other sides for another 2–3 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits add flavor!), reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant—avoid letting the garlic brown to prevent bitterness.

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Step 4: Finish the Steak in Garlic Butter

Return the cooked steak bites to the pan. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and toss the steak cubes in the garlic butter sauce for about a minute until well coated and heated through.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle the steak bites with fresh chopped parsley, and give them a final toss. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, or plated with your favorite sides.

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Notes

• Steak Choice Matters: Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak all work beautifully. Choose a cut with good marbling for the juiciest bites.
• Garlic Freshness: Use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced or garlic powder to maximize flavor and aroma.
• Butter Quality: Unsalted, high-quality butter enhances the richness and gives better control over seasoning.
• Custom Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile.
• Low-Carb Friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it great for keto or paleo lifestyles.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Drying Step: Moisture prevents a proper sear. Always dry the steak cubes before seasoning.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if needed.
• Using Low Heat: A hot skillet is essential for a caramelized crust. Low heat will make the steak chewy and gray.
• Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic burns fast and turns bitter. Cook it just until fragrant.
• Undercooking or Overcooking the Steak: Keep a close eye and use a meat thermometer if needed—130°F for medium-rare is ideal.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

These steak bites are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides—from light and fresh to rich and hearty. Here are some delicious ideas:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth potatoes complement the richness of the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
2. Roasted Asparagus: A crisp, slightly charred green vegetable adds balance to the bold meat flavors.
3. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn soaked in a bit more garlic butter is a perfect match.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up the steak juices nicely.
5. Crispy French Fries: Classic and comforting—perfect for a steak-and-fries night.
6. Simple Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, it cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.
7. Creamed Spinach: A luxurious, velvety side that brings warmth and body to the plate.
8. Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy and aromatic, it works great for absorbing any leftover garlic butter.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat just until heated through—avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the steak tough.

If freezing, place the cooled steak bites in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a pan for best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 210mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, while sirloin and ribeye are popular choices, you can also use New York strip, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just make sure to cut it into uniform cubes and adjust cook time if the cut is leaner.

2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. Garlic Butter Steak Bites are naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making them ideal for keto diets.

3. Can I add vegetables to the pan?

You can! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed in the same pan either before or after the steak for a one-pan meal.

4. How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. The pieces cook fast, so check often to avoid overcooking.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and garlic beforehand, but for best flavor and texture, cook the steak just before serving. Reheating may cause the meat to lose some tenderness.

6. What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

Any heavy-bottomed pan will work, as long as it retains heat well. Just make sure it’s hot enough to sear the meat properly.

7. Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the butter sauce for a spicy kick.

8. Is it okay to use margarine instead of butter?

It’s possible, but real butter offers richer flavor and a better texture. If substituting, choose a high-quality margarine with no added water.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, turning a simple cut of beef into a gourmet-style meal. With the perfect blend of seared meat, fragrant garlic, and rich butter, this dish proves that quick dinners can still feel indulgent. Whether served as a centerpiece or a hearty side, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more.

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