Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small, juicy pieces of steak cooked just right and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. These bites are packed with flavor, thanks to the savory garlic and buttery richness that coats every tender chunk of steak. It’s a simple dish that feels special but comes together quickly, perfect for any day of the week.
I love making these steak bites when I want something satisfying but don’t want to fuss over a big meal. The garlic butter sauce comes together so fast and gives the steak an irresistible taste that always makes me smile. I like to toss in a little fresh parsley at the end for a pop of color and fresh flavor—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
My favorite way to enjoy these steak bites is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. Sometimes I even pile them on top of warm bread or mashed potatoes to soak up all that buttery garlic goodness. They’re great for a cozy night in or to impress friends without a lot of effort. Whenever I make them, everyone ends up asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great here because it’s tender and cooks quickly. If you can’t find sirloin, ribeye or strip steak are good choices for flavor and texture. Avoid tough cuts like chuck.
Butter & Garlic: Unsalted butter lets you control saltiness. Garlic is the star for flavor—fresh minced garlic works best. You could try garlic powder in a pinch but fresh is tastier!
Olive Oil: It helps get a nice sear without burning. You can swap for avocado oil or vegetable oil if preferred. Just use a high smoke point oil for best results.
Parsley & Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Parsley adds a fresh pop of color and mild flavor. Red pepper flakes give a little heat if you like it spicy, but both can be left out without losing the main flavor.
How Do You Get a Perfect Brown Crust on Steak Bites?
The secret to golden, flavorful steak bites lies in the searing. Here’s what helps:
- Dry the steak pieces thoroughly—moisture keeps them from browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed so the meat can brown evenly.
- Use medium-high heat and let the steak sit without moving it for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust.
- Flip and sear the other side just as long, then finish cooking with the garlic butter for extra flavor and moisture.
Patience here is key! Rushing will steam the steak instead of searing it.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy skillet or cast iron pan – it gets super hot for a great sear and holds heat well.
- Tongs – perfect for turning steak bites without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut the steak evenly into consistent bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Cutting board – sturdy surface to safely cut your steak into cubes.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing minced garlic and parsley before adding to the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sirloin for filet mignon cubes for a richer, more tender bite if you want a fancier touch.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce with the garlic butter for extra umami flavor.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms or thin green beans when adding butter for an easy veggie boost.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over finished steak bites for a cheesy twist that melts into the garlic butter.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. Cutting the steak into cubes takes only a few minutes, and the cooking process is quick, especially if you have your skillet nice and hot. It’s perfect for a fast and delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Then, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides to add flavor.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the steak bites in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan—you can cook in batches if needed. Let them sear without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a nice brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until cooked to your liking (medium-rare to medium is best for tenderness).
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, and push the steak bites to one side of the pan. Add the butter and minced garlic to the empty side and stir the garlic in the melting butter. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
4. Toss and Finish:
Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce, coating them evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes while spooning the buttery sauce over the steak to finish cooking and build flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley and, if you like, a pinch of red pepper flakes over the steak bites for a mild kick. Serve immediately while warm. Don’t forget to spoon the extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the top for extra yum!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh steak or fully thaw frozen steak before cooking. If using frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge and pat dry thoroughly to ensure a good sear.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve tenderness and avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
Yes, you can use ghee or a high-quality olive oil if you prefer. Butter adds richness and flavor, but these alternatives will still work well.
What Can I Serve This With?
These steak bites are wonderful with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. They also make a tasty topping for warm bread or pasta.
