Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Looking for a quick yet delicious meal that will impress your family or guests? These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the perfect answer! Juicy, tender steak pieces cooked in a rich, garlicky butter sauce will melt in your mouth. Whether you're planning a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe will have you coming back for more. Keep reading to find out how to make the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites ever!

What are Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small, bite-sized pieces of steak that are seared to perfection and then tossed in a delicious garlic butter sauce. This recipe is all about creating a mouthwatering, savory flavor profile with tender steak chunks, infused with the rich aroma of garlic and a buttery finish. They are easy to cook, versatile, and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, a main course, or a snack, these steak bites fit the bill.

Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

To make the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 4 tablespoon butter (unsalted)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Substitutions and Variations

• Steak Cuts: You can use different cuts of steak like filet mignon, ribeye, or New York strip. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as leaner cuts may need less time on the stove.
• Butter Alternatives: Substitute regular butter with garlic-infused butter or herb butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or a mix of olive oil and margarine.
• Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary, oregano, or even basil if you prefer a different herb profile.
• Add Some Veggies: For a more balanced dish, throw in some mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini alongside the steak bites.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites is straightforward, but a few tips will help you get the perfect sear and flavor every time.

1. Prepare the Steak: Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels, as this helps achieve a better sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
3. Sear the Steak: Add the steak pieces to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful brown crust. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set them aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the steak bites to the pan, toss them in the garlic butter sauce, and add thyme or other herbs. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

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

Cooking these Garlic Butter Steak Bites doesn’t take long, but attention to detail makes all the difference. Here’s a more detailed guide:

1. Choose the Right Steak Cut: Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are best. Look for steaks with good marbling, as the fat content will keep the meat juicy.
2. Preheat Your Pan: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the best sear. Let it get hot enough to ensure a good crust forms on the steak.
3. Do Not Overcrowd: Overcrowding the pan can cause the steak bites to steam rather than sear, leading to less flavorful results. Cook in batches if needed.
4. Control the Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, so keep a close watch when cooking the garlic butter sauce. Lower the heat and stir continuously to avoid burning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: This will lead to steamed, gray-looking steak bites. Always give each piece enough space to cook evenly.
• Overcooking the Steak: Since the pieces are small, they cook quickly. Overcooking can make them tough. For a medium-rare result, aim for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Burning the Garlic: Cooking garlic on too high of a heat can cause it to burn, giving a bitter flavor to the dish. Keep the heat moderate when adding the garlic.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Garlic Butter Steak Bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. For a complete meal, pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless! Here are some presentation ideas:

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: This will help soak up all the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• On Toasted Bread: Serve the steak bites over slices of toasted baguette for a quick steak bruschetta.
• With a Side of Vegetables: Pair them with asparagus, green beans, or roasted brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the steak bites straight from the skillet for a rustic, elegant touch.
• Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Just before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for added texture and flavor.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe Tips

• Pat the Steak Dry: Removing excess moisture from the steak will help it sear better.
• Use High-Quality Butter: Good butter makes a big difference in the flavor of the garlic sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add extra garlic, herbs, or spice if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: It’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture. However, you can prep the steak and ingredients in advance to save time.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Dried herbs can be used as a substitute, but use about half the amount since they are more concentrated.

Q: Can I use frozen steak?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve the texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?
A: While stovetop cooking gives the best sear, you can finish the steak bites in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes if you want to make a larger batch.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With a perfect blend of juicy steak, buttery richness, and aromatic garlic, this dish will become a family favorite. Now that you have all the tips, variations, and step-by-step instructions, you’re ready to make the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites ever. Try it tonight and watch them disappear off the plate!

Ready to make this delicious recipe? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

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