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Nothing compares to the rich, savory taste of steak bites drenched in garlic butter, sizzling hot and bursting with flavor. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a keto-friendly meal, these juicy steak bites will impress every time.
Health Benefits
Steak is a nutrient-dense protein source that provides essential amino acids, iron, and vitamins like B12. Consuming steak in moderation can support muscle growth, improve red blood cell production, and enhance energy levels. Garlic, another key ingredient, is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Why You’ll Love Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Flavorful & Juicy: Every bite is packed with robust garlic butter goodness.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to party appetizers.
- Keto & Low Carb: A delicious option for those watching their carbs.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients for Perfect Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
To achieve the best steak bites, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak (or ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (for a subtle zest)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for extra depth)
Benefits of Garlic in Cooking
- Healthline – 7 Proven Health Benefits of Garlic
A quick read on why garlic is not only flavorful but also great for your health.
How to Make Garlic Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
Follow these step-by-step instructions to get perfectly seared steak bites with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Pat dry the steak cubes with a paper towel. This ensures a nice sear when cooked.
- Season the steak evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan, or the steak won’t sear properly.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F.
- Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add unsalted butter to the skillet.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley.
Step 4: Coat the Steak Bites
- Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Steak Bites
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and caramelization.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking for juicier bites.
- Cut steak into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Do not overcook! Steak bites cook fast, so monitor closely.
- Add extra butter for a richer, silkier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Steak bites pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – for a comforting meal.
- Steamed vegetables – like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Cauliflower rice – a perfect keto-friendly side.
- Buttery dinner rolls – to soak up all that garlic butter sauce.
- Crispy French fries – because why not?
Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice for a subtle zest
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for extra depth
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Pat dry the steak cubes with a paper towel. This ensures a nice sear when cooked.
- Season the steak evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan, or the steak won’t sear properly.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F.
- Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add unsalted butter to the skillet.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley.
Step 4: Coat the Steak Bites
- Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Iron: 15% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% of Daily Value
- Vitamin A: 8% of Daily Value
FAQs
1. What kind of steak is used for steak bites?
Steak bites are often made using tender cuts of beef that cook quickly and stay juicy. Common choices include:
Sirloin: Lean and flavorful, often used for steak bites.
Ribeye: More marbled fat, making it juicy and tender.
Filet mignon: Very tender, though more expensive.
New York strip: Slightly less tender than ribeye but flavorful.
Any cut that’s tender and quick-cooking will work well.
2. Why do chefs put butter on steak?
Butter is added to steak for a few reasons:
Flavor: It enhances the steak’s natural flavors and adds richness.
Texture: It helps to create a smooth, luscious finish on the steak’s surface.
Browning: When melted, butter helps in browning the steak, adding an appealing color and flavor.
Some chefs also use garlic butter or herb-infused butter to elevate the taste.
3. How to make garlic steak tips?
To make garlic steak tips, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients: Steak tips (sirloin or another tender cut), olive oil, garlic (minced or sliced), butter, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: Season the steak with salt and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Sear the steak tips for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.
Add minced garlic (or sliced) and a dollop of butter to the pan. Let the butter melt and the garlic infuse into the meat.
Toss the steak tips in the garlic butter for about 30 seconds, then serve.
4. What to marinate steak bites in?
Steak bites can be marinated in a variety of things to enhance flavor and tenderness. Some great options include:
Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami.
Olive oil: Keeps the meat moist.
Garlic and herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic add fragrance and flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: A tangy kick and great for tenderizing.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
A simple marinade could include soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and a bit of balsamic vinegar.
5. Can you marinate steak in garlic butter?
Yes, you can marinate steak in garlic butter, but because butter solidifies when cooled, it’s best used as a finishing touch during cooking. For marinating, a mixture of garlic, oil, and some herbs or spices is usually recommended. You can add melted garlic butter to the steak after cooking to enhance flavor.
6. What not to marinate steak with?
There are a few things you might want to avoid marinating steak with:
Too much acid (e.g., vinegar or lemon): While a little acid helps tenderize, too much can break down the proteins and result in mushy meat.
Sugar: While sugar can caramelize and add a nice crust, too much can burn during cooking.
Overly salty marinades: Salt can draw out moisture from the steak, making it dry if marinated for too long.
Final Thoughts
Steak bites with garlic butter are a quick, delicious, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Try different variations and find your perfect match!
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