If you are craving a dish that is bursting with rich flavor yet quick enough to whip up on any busy weeknight, this Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe is your new best friend. The tender tri-tip steak cubes seared to perfection, bathed in a fragrant garlic and rosemary butter, create an irresistible dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Every bite hits that perfect savory note, making it an ideal recipe to share with friends or savor all by yourself. Whether you grill or pan-sear, this recipe is truly a gem you will want to keep in your rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw beef cubes with a rich red color and light marbling, placed in a single layer on a white plate with a brown rim. To the left, there is a whole garlic bulb on a white speckled plate with fresh green rosemary sprigs resting beside it. Below, vibrant green parsley leaves spread out, and next to them is a small white bowl filled with a light brown spice mix with visible coarse grains. Above, a small white speckled plate holds three rectangular pieces of pale yellow butter. All items are on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each chosen to amplify the dish’s flavor and texture. Quality steak gives you that savory tenderness, while fresh garlic and rosemary add brightness and herbal depth. Butter brings richness and coats every bite beautifully, rounding out this delightful dish.

3 pounds tri-tip: The star of the show, tri-tip offers great flavor and tender texture when cut into perfect bite-sized pieces.
1/2 cup tri-tip dry rub: A homemade or store-bought dry rub adds a savory crust and extra seasoning to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.
Neutral oil (as needed): Critical for searing without overpowering the steak’s taste, ensuring a perfect crust forms.
6 Tablespoons good-quality salted butter, cubed: Adds creamy richness and acts as the base for the garlic and rosemary infusion.
1 1/2 Tablespoons minced garlic: Fresh garlic imparts a punchy, aromatic bite that elevates the entire dish.
2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary: This herb adds a fragrant, woodsy note that complements the richness of the butter and steak superbly.
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and a light herbal finish that brightens the presentation and flavor.

How to Make Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the tri-tip to ensure every bite is tender and clean. Next, cut the steak into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes to get that perfect balance of juicy interior and caramelized exterior. Pat the cubes dry to help them sear well, then toss them thoroughly with the dry rub until every piece is coated with savory seasoning. Letting the steak come to room temperature here helps it cook more evenly, resulting in steak bites that are tender all the way through.

Step 2: Grilling or Cast Iron Searing

The Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe can be done on the grill or in a cast iron skillet depending on your preference and available equipment. If grilling, preheat to 400°F and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Skewer the steak cubes with a small gap between each to promote even cooking. Grill quickly—just 1 to 2 minutes per side—for a medium-rare finish that locks in juices perfectly. If pan-searing, heat neutral oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook steak cubes without overcrowding, about a minute per side until seared throughout, working in batches if necessary. Both methods create an irresistible, caramelized crust that’s packed with flavor.

Step 3: Garlic Butter Finish

As the steak rests, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic and fresh rosemary. Cook briefly until the mixture becomes fragrant but before the garlic browns. Drizzle this luscious garlic-rosemary butter over the cooked steak bites and use the pan to baste them if searing on the stove. This step is where the dish gains its luxurious depth and mouthwatering aroma, turning simple steak bites into a rich and savory delight.

How to Serve Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

A white scalloped plate filled with dark brown grilled meat pieces, each topped with bright green chopped herbs and a light yellow garlic and herb sauce. Some meat pieces are held together with light bamboo skewers, scattered naturally across the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with small bowls around it, one set of small green herbs, a bowl with golden sauce, and a couple of clear glasses with a white frothy drink. Small herb bits are scattered around the surface, adding texture to the scene. The lighting is bright, showing the juicy and slightly charred texture of the meat clearly photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to take this dish over the top, adding a vibrant green color and fresh, slightly peppery flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the garlic butter. It’s an effortless way to make your presentation pop while adding an herbaceous finish to every bite.

Side Dishes

These steak bites are fantastically versatile when it comes to pairing. For a classic meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf to soak up the buttery sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a hearty, caramelized contrast. If you want something lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the plate and keep things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive yet casual appetizer, arrange the steak bites on a wooden board with toothpicks, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Alternatively, toss the bites into warm pita bread with a smear of garlic aioli and fresh arugula for a delightful sandwich. You might even layer them over cheesy polenta or creamy grits for a Southern-style twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover steak bites keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid storing them with the garlic butter sauce; instead, store the sauce separately and reheat just before serving.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the steak bites, let them cool completely after cooking, then place them in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain good flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Freezing might soften the fresh parsley garnish, so add that fresh when you reheat.

Reheating

Reheat steak bites gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little fresh butter or olive oil to prevent sticking and to refresh the garlic butter flavor. Avoid microwaving to keep the steaks from drying out or becoming chewy. Reheat just until warmed through to keep them tender and juicy.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for steak bites?

Tri-tip is a fantastic choice for steak bites due to its balance of flavor, tenderness, and affordability. However, sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak can work well depending on your preference. Just be sure to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Can I make this recipe without a grill or cast iron skillet?

Absolutely! While a grill or cast iron skillet gives the best sear, you can use any heavy-bottomed pan or even a broiler set on high. Just be sure to closely watch the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?

Using an instant-read thermometer is the easiest way to get it right; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and let rest to reach 135°F (57°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cook until a browned crust forms on all sides and the steak feels springy to the touch.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, unsalted butter works just fine. You might want to add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors, especially since salted butter adds some seasoning on its own.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! The ingredients in the Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a clean, flavorful meal.

Final Thoughts

This Super Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe is truly one of those joyful dishes that feels like a special occasion even on an ordinary day. Its simple ingredients come together to create something unbelievably tasty and satisfying. I guarantee that once you try it, these steak bites will become a steadfast favorite in your cooking repertoire. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this deliciously buttery, garlicky steak sensation!