Steak lovers, rejoice! This Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that’s packed with flavor. These succulent steak bites are seared to perfection, then bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick meal for yourself, these steak bites are the perfect solution. Follow along to learn everything you need to know to make this mouthwatering dish, and don’t forget to read through the entire article for tips, tricks, and FAQs!
What Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small, tender pieces of steak, usually cut from ribeye or sirloin, that are pan-seared in a hot skillet until golden and crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside. The key to their flavor? A generous dose of garlic and melted butter! This combination creates a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the steak bites perfectly. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight meal or as an impressive appetizer that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
To make Garlic Butter Steak Bites, you'll need simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:
- 1 lb of steak (ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Ingredients List for the Garlic Butter Sauce
The magic of this recipe lies in the garlic butter sauce that coats the steak bites. Here’s what you’ll need for that luscious sauce:
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Garlic: 5 cloves, minced or finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the butter.
Substitutions and Variations
Cooking is all about creativity and flexibility, so here are a few substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Steak Cut Substitutes: If you don’t have ribeye or sirloin, you can use other cuts like tenderloin, New York strip, or even skirt steak. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the cut.
- Butter Alternatives: For a healthier option, substitute butter with ghee or olive oil. However, keep in mind that the buttery richness is key to this dish’s signature flavor.
- Garlic Options: If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but fresh garlic adds the best flavor. You could also use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Add Heat: Love spicy food? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary would complement the steak well if you want to switch up the herb profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Steak:
Start by patting your steak dry with paper towels. Drying the steak is essential for achieving that perfect sear. Once dry, cut the steak into 1-inch cubes and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder (if using). - Heat the Skillet:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and wait for it to shimmer. A hot skillet ensures that the steak bites sear properly, locking in the juices and forming a beautiful crust. - Sear the Steak Bites:
Once the skillet is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to have contact with the hot surface. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. - Combine Steak with Garlic Butter:
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Let them cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to cooking Garlic Butter Steak Bites to perfection:
- Cut and season the steak: 1-inch cubes seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat the skillet: Use medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Sear the steak: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, add parsley and lemon juice.
- Toss steak in the sauce: Combine everything in the skillet for a final burst of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This is a common mistake that results in steaming the meat instead of searing it. Always cook steak bites in batches if necessary.
- Not Drying the Steak: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Pat the steak dry to ensure you get a crispy crust.
- Overcooking the Steak: Steak bites cook quickly, so watch them carefully. Overcooking can make them tough and chewy.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Be sure to cook it on medium heat and stir frequently.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, especially when serving guests. Here are some tips to make your Garlic Butter Steak Bites look as good as they taste:
- Serve on a Platter: Arrange the steak bites on a serving platter, drizzling them with extra garlic butter from the pan.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Lemon Wedges: Lemon not only brightens the flavor but also looks appealing on the side of the plate.
- Accompany with Sides: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter, or pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites can be served as:
- Appetizers: Spear each steak bite with a toothpick for a simple and elegant appetizer.
- Main Course: Serve with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Over Rice or Pasta: Toss the steak bites and garlic butter sauce over pasta or rice for a hearty, comforting dish.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
For a fancy presentation, serve these steak bites with:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping in the extra garlic butter.
- Roasted Vegetables: Arrange colorful roasted veggies around the steak bites for a pop of color.
- Skewers: Thread the steak bites onto skewers for easy serving at parties.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe Tips
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the best sear, a cast-iron skillet is your best friend. It retains heat well and gives the steak a nice crust.
- Room Temperature Steak: Let the steak sit out for about 20 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Adjust the Garlic to Taste: Love garlic? Feel free to add more! You can also top the finished steak bites with roasted garlic for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can sear the steak bites in advance and make the garlic butter sauce right before serving. Just reheat the steak in the sauce.
What’s the best steak to use for steak bites?
Ribeye, sirloin, and tenderloin are great choices. They’re tender and flavorful, making them perfect for this recipe.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch. Just be careful as it can cook faster and may burn.
Can I cook these on the grill?
Yes! You can grill the steak bites on skewers and brush them with the garlic butter sauce after grilling for a smoky flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course. With tender steak pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, they’re sure to impress your family or guests. Follow the tips, tricks, and step-by-step guide in this recipe, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Don't wait any longer—grab your skillet and start cooking these irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Bites today!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Garlic butter steak bites are a quick and easy recipe packed with rich, savory flavors. Tender steak pieces are pan-seared and smothered in a delicious garlic butter sauce, making this the perfect weeknight meal or appetizer. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
- Sear steak in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking.
- Remove steak from pan, reduce heat, and melt butter.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return steak bites to the pan, toss with garlic butter, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use a hot pan to achieve a nice sear on the steak.
- Adjust garlic to your preference for a more or less intense flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ recipe
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 150 mg
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