There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle of juicy steak in a hot skillet, especially when it’s bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. I discovered this recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Bites after a long week of mundane meals, craving a quick yet indulgent dinner that didn’t require hours in the kitchen. In under 30 minutes, I was savoring tender, savory bites that reminded me of my favorite steakhouse, all without the fuss!
These little gems are not only high in protein but also keto-friendly, making them a perfect fit for those evening cravings. Whether you’re having a cozy meal at home after a hectic day or impressing friends at the next gathering, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites can do it all. Imagine the delight of serving a dish that feels gourmet but is oh-so-simple to whip up! So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Why Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is bursting with rich garlic and buttery goodness, providing an elevated steakhouse experience right at home.
Versatile Protein: With a high protein content and low carbs, they fit snugly into various dietary preferences, including keto.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party appetizer, these bites will impress everyone around the table.
Minimal Cleanup: Using just one skillet means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Why not enhance your meal with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes? These Garlic Butter Steak Bites will quickly become a favorite dish in your kitchen!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Ingredients
These ingredients will set you up for garlic butter steak bite perfection!
For the Steak
- 1.5 pounds sirloin or ribeye steak – Choose these cuts for a tender, juicy texture that holds up well in cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps prevent the steak from sticking while adding a hint of flavor; feel free to use a different cooking oil if preferred.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the meat; freshly ground gives the best results.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Rich and creamy, this is the star of the sauce; substitute with ghee for a dairy-free option.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s aroma; if in a pinch, garlic powder works too (about 1 teaspoon).
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional) – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth; feel free to skip it for a cleaner flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional) – These herbs boost the flavor profile beautifully; dried versions can work as well if fresh is unavailable.
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – This adds a pop of color and freshness; you can leave it out if you’re short on time.
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional) – Perfect for spice lovers; adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance.
With these Garlic Butter Steak Bites ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and satisfaction!
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
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Prepare Steak: Let the beef sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Pat dry the steak cubes thoroughly and drizzle them with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their delicious flavor.
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Sear Steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add the steak cubes in a single layer, searing them for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
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Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium after removing the steak. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet, followed by minced garlic and the optional sliced onions. Sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden, stirring to infuse the butter.
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Combine: Return the seared steak to the skillet, allowing it to bask in that rich garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through and perfectly coated.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish your creation with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and a hint of heat. Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites immediately for the best taste!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Room Temperature: Garlic Butter Steak Bites should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the steak bites in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the steak bites in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a touch of butter or oil to revive the moisture and flavor.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement the rich flavors of steak bites.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting balance to the steak’s richness while soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or zucchini add vibrant color and a crispy texture, offering a delightful crunch alongside the tender steak bites.
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Garlic Bread: Satisfy your carb cravings with warm, crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for mopping up every drop of savory garlic butter.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp Caesar salad brings a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak, with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright, crisp green beans provide a touch of freshness and vibrancy to your meal, making it light and well-rounded.
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Red Wine: Pairing these garlic butter steak bites with a smooth red wine enhances the flavors beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Each suggestion is crafted to elevate your dinner and make every bite a memorable one!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a fantastic option for meal prep, helping you save time during hectic weeknights! You can cut the steak into cubes and season them with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce by mincing the garlic and mixing it with butter and any optional seasonings; store this mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to eat, simply sear the prepped steak as instructed, revisit the prepared garlic butter sauce to warm it up, and coat the finished bites for a satisfying dinner that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Room Temperature Steak: Allowing steak to reach room temperature ensures even cooking, giving you perfectly tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
- Sear Properly: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. Sear in batches if necessary for that beautiful crust.
- Timing is Key: Add garlic to the butter sauce towards the end of cooking to prevent burning. This step maximizes flavor and preserves the aromatic qualities of the garlic.
- Let It Rest: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps maintain juiciness and flavor in each bite of your delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
- Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to try different fresh herbs or spices based on your preference; it’s an easy way to customize the flavor profile of this dish!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these delicious steak bites and tailor them to your taste buds!
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Protein Swap: Use filet mignon or flank steak for different textures and experiences. Both cuts bring their unique flavors, with filet mignon being extra tender.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the pan for a colorful and nutritious twist. Veggies add great texture and depth, complementing the garlic butter beautifully.
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Onion-Free: Omit the onions for a straightforward flavor. You can always replace them with a sprinkle of garlic powder for that beloved garlic taste!
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Herb Variety: Substitute fresh thyme or rosemary with your preferred dried herb. Herbs like oregano or basil can give you a completely different yet delightful flavor.
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, toss in some fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Both will elevate the dish to a whole new level of flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice before serving for a refreshing twist! It’ll brighten the rich flavors and add a whole new dimension.
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Butter Alternatives: Swap unsalted butter for ghee for a dairy-free version. Ghee imparts a lovely nutty flavor while still offering that creamy consistency.
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Steak Marinade: Give your steak a quick marinade with soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for a flavor-packed bite. Just let it marinate for 15 minutes to infuse the meat before cooking.
With these variations, you can truly make this dish your own, ensuring every meal feels special and new! Enjoy the process and savor each savory bite!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of steak is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Absolutely! For Garlic Butter Steak Bites, I highly recommend using sirloin or ribeye steak. These cuts are preferred for their tenderness and marbling, resulting in juicy and flavorful bites. Filet mignon or flank steak can also work and provide different textures if you want to experiment!
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Very good question! Allow your leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors again later in the week without losing any taste.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option for long-term storage. Place the cooled steak bites in a sealed freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, and they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently in a skillet to retain their juiciness.
What should I do if my steak bites aren’t browning properly?
Excellently noted! If your steak isn’t browning, it may be due to overcrowding in the skillet. Searing in batches ensures that each piece gets optimal contact with the hot surface, which promotes that beautifully browned crust we all love. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough—let it heat until it’s smoking before adding the steak!
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking to adapt for dietary needs, this dish is keto-friendly as is, but you can substitute several ingredients. Use ghee instead of butter for a dairy-free option, and if you have nut allergies, be sure to eliminate any herbs that may use nut oils. Additionally, you can skip the onions to further simplify the recipe. Just make it your own!
How do I ensure maximum flavor with the garlic?
To maximize flavor from the garlic, add it to the butter sauce towards the end of cooking. This prevents it from burning, which can turn it bitter. Sauté for just 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden before adding the steak back in. This technique preserves its aromatic qualities and enhances the overall flavor of your Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Quick, Juicy Bliss for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let the beef sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Pat dry the steak cubes thoroughly and drizzle them with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add the steak cubes in a single layer, searing them for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Reduce the heat to medium after removing the steak. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet, followed by minced garlic and optional sliced onions. Sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the seared steak to the skillet, allowing it to bask in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Finish with parsley and red pepper flakes for garnish. Serve immediately.