If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy steak pieces seared to perfection in a garlic-infused butter sauce will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for guests or simply craving a savory dish on a busy weeknight, these steak bites are guaranteed to impress. Keep reading to discover all the essential details for this recipe, from the ingredients list to step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and serving ideas. You won't want to miss a single tip!
What Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender cubes of steak, quickly seared in a hot pan, then bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This dish is known for its simplicity and rich flavor. It is the perfect balance between the juicy beef and the aromatic garlic butter sauce. Since it's bite-sized, it's great for serving as an appetizer or a main dish paired with your favorite sides. You only need a few key ingredients, and it’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for steak lovers everywhere.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) of steak: You can use sirloin, ribeye, tenderloin, or New York strip. Look for a well-marbled cut for the best flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This will form the base of your sauce, lending it a rich and creamy flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is crucial to the flavor of this dish. Don’t skimp on it!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is for searing the steak, helping achieve a nice crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings go a long way in enhancing the natural flavors of the steak.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional): Fresh thyme adds a nice herbal note that complements the garlic butter sauce.
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: For garnishing and a pop of color.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika: For a little extra kick, add these spices to the butter sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes, you may need to adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences or what you have available. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:
- Steak Substitutes: While sirloin or ribeye are preferred, you can substitute with flank steak or even beef tips for a more budget-friendly option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times depending on the cut.
- Butter Substitutes: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap out butter with a vegan butter alternative or even ghee for a nutty flavor.
- Garlic: If fresh garlic isn't available, garlic powder can be used, but the flavor won’t be as bold. You’ll need about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder as a replacement for each clove.
- Herbs: If thyme or parsley isn’t available, you can replace them with rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Want a spicier version? Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to your steak bites for a little heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites, broken down into simple steps:
- Prepare the Steak: Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized pieces (around 1-inch cubes). Pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures a great sear and prevents steaming. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan and allow it to heat until shimmering. You want the pan hot enough to sear the steak quickly.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak cubes into the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. You want the meat to get a nice sear. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning the steak bites to brown all sides. Depending on how you like your steak, aim for a total of 6-8 minutes for medium-rare to medium.
- Remove Steak from Pan: Once the steak bites are seared to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. As it melts, add minced garlic and thyme (if using), stirring frequently. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. You want it fragrant but not brown.
- Combine the Steak and Sauce: Return the steak bites to the pan, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly. Let the steak simmer in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes to soak in all that flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the steak bites. Serve hot!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Bites come out perfect every time, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Overcrowding the Pan: If you put too many steak bites in the pan at once, they’ll steam instead of searing. Sear in batches if necessary.
- Using Cold Steak: Steak should be at room temperature before you cook it to ensure even cooking. Cold steak straight from the fridge can cook unevenly.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so be sure to add it after you’ve removed the steak from the pan and reduce the heat before sautéing it in the butter.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Garlic Butter Steak Bites can be presented in a variety of ways to suit different occasions, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for guests.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- As an Appetizer: Serve the steak bites with toothpicks or small skewers for easy, bite-sized portions. Pair them with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chimichurri, or a spicy mayo.
- Main Course: For a full meal, pair the steak bites with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve them over rice, pasta, or even a bed of sautéed spinach or kale.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Rustic Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the steak bites straight from the skillet, garnished with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon on the side for a cozy, rustic presentation.
- White Plates with a Drizzle of Sauce: For a more elegant touch, plate the steak bites on a white plate, with a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce over the top and a sprinkle of parsley or microgreens.
- Appetizer Board: For party settings, serve the steak bites on a wooden charcuterie board with accompaniments like bread, roasted veggies, and cheese.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you're unsure of the doneness of your steak, use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to your preference. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
- Pat the Steak Dry: This step is crucial for getting that crispy, browned exterior on the steak. Excess moisture prevents a proper sear.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Steak bites cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Keep an eye on them as they sear to ensure they remain juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites ahead of time?
A: These steak bites are best served fresh, but you can prep the steak ahead of time by cutting it into cubes and seasoning it. The garlic butter sauce can also be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
Q: What steak cut is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
A: Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are the best choices for this dish. Each provides a good balance of tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts like brisket.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: You can use margarine, but the flavor won't be as rich and creamy as real butter. For the best flavor, stick with butter or a butter substitute like ghee.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will leave your guests or family asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving them as an appetizer at a party, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Be sure to follow the steps carefully, avoid common mistakes, and add your own variations to make this dish your own. Now that you’ve got the recipe down, why not head to the kitchen and start cooking? Your taste buds will thank you!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Juicy garlic butter steak bites are a quick and easy dish, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like steak, garlic, and butter, this savory meal is packed with flavor and requires minimal prep. A must-try for steak lovers!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak cubes with salt and pepper.
- Add steak to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Reduce heat, add butter and minced garlic to the pan, stirring until melted and fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Toss steak bites in the garlic butter until fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear on your steak.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
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