If you’re craving a dish that combines rich flavors with speedy preparation, look no further than this Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe. With tender, juicy steak cubes seared to perfection and enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, every bite bursts with savory goodness. It’s the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinner or wow guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only to build layers of flavor but also to enhance texture and appearance, making this dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil: Ideal for high-heat searing, it creates a perfect crust without smoking.
- 1½ pounds filet mignon or ribeye steak, cut into 1½ – 2 inch cubes: Choose your favorite cut for tender, juicy bites full of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering it.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich, velvety sauce when combined with garlic.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency and warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Offers just a hint of heat to balance the buttery richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
First, let your steak come to room temperature. This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking throughout each bite. Trim and cut the beef into roughly 1½ to 2-inch cubes, then pat them dry using paper towels to help achieve that coveted sear. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper, setting the foundation for bold but balanced flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the peanut oil. Carefully lay the steak cubes in a single layer, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Crowding causes steaming and prevents browning, so cook the steak in batches if needed. Let the beef cook undisturbed for two minutes to form a beautiful brown crust, then flip and cook for another two minutes on the other side.
Step 3: Check and Set Aside
Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness — you’re aiming for a medium-rare to medium finish for juicy, tender bites. Once cooked, transfer the steak onto a plate or bowl and set aside to rest. Resting allows the meat fibers to relax, locking in all those delicious juices.
Step 4: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. As it melts, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let the garlic sizzle gently for 30 seconds to one minute, taking care not to burn it. Then return the steak bites back to the skillet, tossing them to coat thoroughly in the fragrant garlic butter sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Rest
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites and give everything a final toss to combine. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors meld perfectly and the juices redistribute evenly throughout each bite.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Savor
Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites hot off the skillet for the best taste experience. Each bite delivers an irresistible combination of crusty, buttery, garlicky steak that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the classic way to brighten the plate and add a hint of herbal freshness. For an extra touch of indulgence, you could add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese or a dash of flaky sea salt right before serving. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and texture beautifully.
Side Dishes
These steak bites pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic noodles, which soak up every bit of that luscious butter sauce. For a lighter option, toss together a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. These sides add contrast in texture and keep the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the steak bites over a bed of fluffy rice or buttery polenta for a hearty meal. Alternatively, turn them into appetizers by skewering the steak cubes and serving with a dipping sauce on the side. For a casual dinner, pile them high on toasted baguette slices to make irresistible steak bruschetta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover steak bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their tenderness, be sure to cool them completely before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the steak bites, spread them out on a baking sheet first to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a touch of butter or oil to refresh the sauce and keep the steak bites moist. Microwaving is convenient but may dry out the meat, so take care not to overheat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While filet mignon and ribeye are ideal for their tenderness, sirloin or strip steak can also work well. Just be mindful of the cooking time and thickness of the cuts.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
A heavy-bottomed stainless steel or non-stick skillet will work, but cast iron is preferred because it retains heat better and creates an excellent sear on the steak bites.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil or ghee, but butter adds a richness and silky texture that’s hard to replicate. It also carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For more kick, you can increase the amount or add freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The steak bites store well and can be reheated quickly, making them a fantastic protein option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers big on flavor without a complicated process. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to these succulent steak bites—you won’t regret it!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe (Quick and Easy) Recipe
This quick and easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe features tender filet mignon or ribeye cubes seared to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, then tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes and fresh parsley. Perfect for a satisfying and savory meal in just 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil
- 1½ pounds filet mignon or ribeye steak, cut into 1½ – 2 inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Let the steak come to room temperature. Cut the beef into bite-size pieces, approximately 1½ to 2 inches. Pat dry with a paper towel and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peanut oil and allow it to get hot but not smoking to ensure a good sear on the steak bites.
- Cook the Steak Bites: Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming and to achieve a nice brown crust. Let the beef cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to sear one side.
- Turn and Finish Cooking: Flip the steak pieces and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for desired doneness. Once cooked, transfer the steak bites to a bowl or plate and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the same skillet. Cook the garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Toss Steak in Sauce: Return the steak bites to the skillet and stir them into the garlic butter sauce, coating thoroughly.
- Garnish and Rest: Sprinkle the steak bites with fresh chopped parsley and toss to combine. Let the meat rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter steak bites hot and enjoy immediately to savor the rich flavors and juicy texture.
Notes
- Letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking and better searing.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet to prevent steaming the meat instead of searing it.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for best heat retention and crust development.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.
- Resting the steak bites after cooking helps keep them juicy and tender.
