Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small, juicy pieces of steak seared to perfection and then tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor thanks to the perfect caramelization and the delicious garlic butter glaze that clings to every piece. It’s a simple but mighty dish that really satisfies those steak cravings in a snap.
I love making these steak bites when I want something quick but still feel like I’m treating myself to a restaurant-style meal. The key is using good quality steak and plenty of fresh garlic to get that bold punch of flavor. I always make extra garlic butter to drizzle over the top because, well, you can never have too much garlic butter! Plus, they’re great for testing your knife skills by cutting steak into the perfect bite sizes.
My favorite way to enjoy these is with a side of roasted veggies or a simple salad to balance out the richness. They also make an awesome appetizer when you’re having friends over—just serve them on a big platter with toothpicks and watch them disappear fast. These steak bites turn an ordinary evening into a special, tasty moment without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best for tender and flavorful bites. If you want a leaner option, try flank or sirloin tip, but watch cooking time to avoid toughness.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control salt but salted butter can add extra flavor. For dairy-free, use a plant-based butter substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for its strong, aromatic flavor. Garlic powder can work but won’t be as vibrant.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. Thyme or rosemary add a lovely earthy note. Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, but reduce quantity since dried are more concentrated.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Steak Bites Without Steaming?
Getting a good sear is all about pan temperature and meat prep:
- Pat steak cubes dry first to reduce moisture that causes steaming.
- Use a heavy pan like cast iron and heat it until very hot before adding oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or the meat will release steam instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let each side cook undisturbed for 2 minutes or until a brown crust forms, then flip.
- Finish by tossing in garlic butter off high heat to avoid burning the garlic.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet – it gets super hot and helps you get a perfect sear on the steak bites.
- Tongs – easy to flip the steak cubes without piercing them and losing juices.
- Sharp chef’s knife – makes cutting steak into even bite-sized pieces quick and safe.
- Cutting board – sturdy surface for cutting steak and prepping garlic and herbs.
- Wooden spoon – handy for stirring the garlic butter sauce without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap steak for chicken thighs or shrimp for a lighter, quicker-cooking option that still pairs great with garlic butter.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder to the steak seasoning for a smoky or spicy twist.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions with the steak bites for extra depth and texture.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar to brighten the rich garlic butter sauce.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Steak Bites:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or rosemary, chopped
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a slight heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes total. It’s quick to prepare with 5 minutes of chopping and seasoning, then about 8-10 minutes to cook the steak bites and make the garlic butter sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Pat your steak cubes dry with paper towels to get a nice crust when cooking. Season all sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook without stirring for about 2 minutes to get a golden-brown crust. Flip the pieces and cook another 2 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Remove steak bites to a plate. Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute – be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine and Finish:
Stir in the chopped parsley and any optional herbs or red pepper flakes. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately with extra sauce spooned over top.
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and cooking. This helps the steak cook evenly and prevents excess moisture that can interfere with searing.
How Do I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the steak tender and avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute Butter for Olive Oil?
Butter adds richness and flavor, so it’s best to use both oil for searing and butter for the sauce. If you want to skip butter, use olive oil, but you’ll miss some of the classic garlic butter taste.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites go great with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
