Satisfyingly tender and bursting with flavor, Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a perfect go-to dish for any night of the week. They’re quick, requiring just 15 minutes and one skillet, and versatile enough to pair with various sides, from vegetables and potatoes to a simple crusty bread. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or an appetizer, this recipe promises a rich and savory experience in every bite.
What Makes These Steak Bites Unforgettable
These steak bites are more than just quick and easy—they deliver on texture and taste. Using a high-quality cut like sirloin or ribeye, combined with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, transforms simple ingredients into something exceptional.
The dish’s secret lies in a high-heat sear, which locks in juices and forms a flavorful crust, followed by a quick garlic butter sauce that brings it all together. If you’re after a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this one is a winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these Garlic Butter Steak Bites, gather the following ingredients:
- 500 g sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 2 cm cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 75 g unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Tips
- Steak Choice: Sirloin or ribeye provides the ideal balance of tenderness and flavor. Avoid using cuts like chuck, which require longer cooking times for optimal texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh thyme and parsley enhances the flavor and aroma. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh will yield a better result.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Follow these straightforward steps to get your steak bites just right:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
- Season the cubes evenly with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Place the steak cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even browning.
- Sear the steak bites for about 2 minutes without stirring, allowing a crust to form. Flip the pieces and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked to your preference.
- Add the Garlic Butter:
- Lower the heat slightly and add the butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and bubble around the steak bites.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped thyme, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can turn bitter.
- Gently toss the steak bites to coat them in the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each piece is well seasoned and glossy.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs:
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle the steak bites with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Steak Bites pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.
- Potatoes: Try pairing with mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or a simple potato gratin.
- Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining garlic butter sauce in the pan.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier option, serve the steak bites over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up all the flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Steak Bites
- Use High Heat: A high searing temperature is essential for achieving a caramelized crust. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak, and avoid crowding the pan.
- Dry Your Steak: Patting the steak dry ensures a better sear. Excess moisture can cause the meat to steam instead of sear.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly when added to hot oil or butter, so keep the heat moderate when it’s time to add the garlic. Thirty seconds is usually enough to release its flavor without overcooking.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, avoid overcooking the steak bites by using a gentle heat:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals to prevent the steak from becoming tough.
Steak bites can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps, making them a versatile addition to other meals.
Customizations and Variations
- Add a Kick: If you enjoy a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or drizzle with a bit of hot sauce before serving.
- Mushrooms: Toss in some sliced mushrooms alongside the steak for an earthy complement to the garlic butter sauce.
- Different Herbs: Swap thyme with rosemary for a different herbaceous note, or try adding a touch of tarragon for a slightly sweet twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, while sirloin and ribeye are ideal for this recipe, tenderloin or strip steak can also work well. Just ensure that the steak is cut into uniform cubes for even cooking.
2. What oil should I use for searing?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, is best. Olive oil can be used but may impart a stronger flavor.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Certainly! Swap the butter with a dairy-free alternative, like vegan butter or ghee, for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I avoid overcooking the steak?
To keep the steak bites tender, cook them quickly over high heat, and avoid leaving them in the pan once they’re done. For medium-rare, aim for 2-3 minutes per side; adjust the timing based on your preferred doneness.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g sirloin or ribeye steak cut into 2 cm cubes
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 75 g unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Pat the steak bites completely dry with a paper towel, then season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is hot and sizzling, about 1 minute.
- Add the steak bites in a single layer, searing for about 2 minutes without stirring to get a good sear. Flip them and cook the other side for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the butter and let it melt, bubbling around the steak bites. Stir to coat the steak evenly with the melted butter.
- Add the garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Notes
- For the best results, use a well-marbled steak like sirloin or ribeye.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak bites to get a good sear.
- Adjust cooking time based on preferred doneness of the steak.
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