Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Quick, Easy, and Packed with Flavor

Steak lovers, get ready for your next favorite recipe! These garlic butter steak bites are a mouth-watering dish that you can whip up in minutes. They’re juicy, tender, and rich in flavor—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this recipe will have you mastering steak in no time. Read on to discover how you can make restaurant-quality garlic butter steak bites at home!

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What Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Garlic butter steak bites are small, tender pieces of steak that are quickly seared to perfection in a hot skillet and then finished with a luxurious garlic butter sauce. The key to this recipe’s incredible flavor is the balance of a juicy, perfectly cooked steak with the rich, aromatic garlic butter coating. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy steak in bite-sized portions, making it ideal for sharing, serving over salads, or pairing with vegetables.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

To make these delicious steak bites, you'll need the following ingredients. These are pantry staples and simple ingredients that pack a big flavor punch.

• 1 pound of steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin) – Use high-quality steak for the best results. Sirloin is a great affordable option, while ribeye or tenderloin will give you extra tenderness.
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter – This is the base for the rich garlic butter sauce that coats the steak bites.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings that irresistible aromatic quality to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the steak to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves – Adds a subtle herbaceous flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or fresh rosemary – Elevates the dish with a fragrant, earthy aroma.
• Salt and black pepper – To season the steak before searing.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a touch of freshness and color.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites (Substitutions)

Need to make adjustments? No problem! Here are some great substitution ideas:

• Steak alternatives: If you're out of sirloin or ribeye, flank steak or strip steak can work well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times for different cuts.
• Butter substitutes: If you want a dairy-free option, use a vegan butter or even olive oil for a lighter sauce. Ghee is also a fantastic substitute for butter, giving it a slightly nutty flavor.
• Herb variations: Not a fan of thyme or rosemary? Swap them out for other herbs like oregano or basil. For an extra kick, you could even add red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Garlic powder vs. fresh garlic: While fresh garlic is ideal, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.

Substitutions and Variations

This garlic butter steak bites recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Here are a few variations to keep things interesting:

• Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites: After cooking the steak bites, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a rich, cheesy finish.
• Lemon Herb Steak Bites: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving to give the steak bites a bright, tangy flavor. You can also add some lemon zest to the butter for even more zing.
• Spicy Steak Bites: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce for a fiery kick.
• Steak Bites with Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan after cooking the steak bites, and toss them together with the garlic butter for a more hearty and flavorful dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can make garlic butter steak bites in just a few simple steps. This is a quick recipe, so it’s important to have everything ready to go before you start cooking.

1. Prep the steak: Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized cubes, around 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Season them generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be very hot before you add the steak to ensure a good sear.
3. Sear the steak bites: Once the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, without moving them, so they develop a golden-brown crust.
4. Flip and cook: Flip the steak bites and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, depending on how well-done you like your steak. For medium-rare, aim for about 3-4 minutes total.
5. Remove steak from pan: Once the steak bites are cooked to your liking, transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
6. Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. Combine and serve: Add the cooked steak bites back into the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until they are well coated. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide

The key to cooking garlic butter steak bites perfectly is all about timing and temperature. Here are some additional tips to ensure you get the best results:

• Use a hot pan: Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding the steak. This will give you that delicious golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak bites in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will cause the steak to steam rather than sear, leading to a less flavorful result.
• Don’t overcook the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so be sure to cook it on medium-low heat. Burnt garlic will give the dish a bitter taste, so take care when making the butter sauce.
• Let the steak rest: After cooking the steak bites, allow them to rest for a minute or two before tossing them in the garlic butter. This helps retain the juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold steak: Always let your steak come to room temperature before cooking. Cold steak will lower the pan’s temperature and result in uneven cooking.
• Moving the steak too soon: Patience is key! Let the steak bites sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop that perfect sear. If you move them too early, they won't brown as well.
• Overcooking the steak: Keep a close eye on your steak bites while cooking. They cook quickly, so it's easy to overdo it if you're not paying attention.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These garlic butter steak bites are versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to make them the star of your meal:

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Appetizer: Serve the steak bites with toothpicks for a fun and shareable appetizer. You can also serve them alongside dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chimichurri, or a creamy horseradish sauce.
• Main dish: For a full meal, pair the steak bites with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice or pasta. You could also serve them with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
• Tacos or wraps: Toss the steak bites into soft tortillas with some fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious steak taco. Or wrap them in lettuce for a low-carb option.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Serve in a cast iron skillet: Bring the skillet straight to the table for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or even microgreens can add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Use a wooden board: For an appetizer setting, serve the steak bites on a large wooden cutting board with toothpicks, making them easy to grab and enjoy.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe Tips

• Preheat the pan: Always heat your pan before adding the steak for the best sear.
• Use room-temperature butter: This helps the butter melt evenly without burning.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic: The garlic is what makes this dish so flavorful, so use fresh garlic for the best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these steak bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the steak bites ahead of time by cutting and seasoning them. However, for the best flavor and texture, cook them right before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet with a little butter to avoid overcooking.

Can I freeze garlic butter steak bites?
Yes, you can freeze cooked steak bites, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then reheat slowly to avoid drying them out.

What sides go well with steak bites?
Steak bites pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, serve them with cauliflower rice or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

Garlic butter steak bites are a fantastic way to enjoy steak without all the fuss of grilling or roasting. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, these steak bites will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a hit every time!

Enjoy your delicious garlic butter steak bites!

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