Few things hit the spot like tender steak sizzling in a skillet of bubbling garlic butter—and these Garlic Butter Steak Bites bring that indulgent steakhouse flavor straight to your kitchen in minutes. Juicy, perfectly seared cubes of beef soak up the richness of real butter, fresh garlic, and herbs for a bite-sized dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, over mashed potatoes, or tossed with veggies and rice, this recipe is bold, buttery, and absolutely addictive.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Steakhouse flavor in 15 minutes or less.
Perfect sear and juicy center every time.
Pairs with almost anything—great for bowls, salads, or snacking.
Low-carb and high-protein meal idea.
Easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here’s what fuels the flavor—no extras, just the essentials.
Sirloin steak: This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking. You can also swap it for tenderloin or ribeye for a richer taste.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show! It adds richness and helps create that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a punch of flavor. It’s the heart of this dish, so don’t skimp on it!
Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs add a fragrant touch. If you don’t have fresh, dried versions work just fine.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. They enhance the natural flavors of the steak, so season generously.
Olive oil: Used for searing the steak, it helps achieve that perfect crust while keeping the meat juicy.
Chopped parsley: This is optional but adds a pop of color and freshness when garnishing your dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites is straightforward and fun. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Step 1: Season the Steak
Start by seasoning your steak cubes with salt and pepper. This step is crucial! It enhances the natural flavors of the meat. Don’t be shy—season generously. The salt will help create a beautiful crust when searing.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it warm up. You want the oil to shimmer before adding the steak. This ensures a perfect sear, locking in all those juicy flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Once the oil is hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this allows each piece to sear properly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This step is key for that delicious crust!
Step 4: Flip and Cook
After the first side is beautifully browned, it’s time to flip the steak cubes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. Whether you like them rare or well-done, keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Combine and Heat Through
Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter mixture. Make sure each piece is coated well. Cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites immediately, and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier bites.
For extra flavor, marinate the steak in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking.
Don’t rush the searing process; a good crust takes time.
Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for searing.
Spatula: Use a sturdy spatula to flip the steak bites without losing their shape.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for checking doneness.
Cutting board: Essential for prepping your steak cubes.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Mushroom Medley: Toss in some sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor that complements the steak beautifully.
Herb-Infused Butter: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique twist on the classic garlic butter.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the steak bites over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles for a delicious low-carb meal.
Steak Marinade: Marinate the steak in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair your steak bites with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine enhances the meal, making it feel extra special.
Presentation: Serve on a wooden board for a rustic touch, garnished with extra herbs for color.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can also use tenderloin or ribeye for a richer flavor. Each cut brings its own unique taste and texture to the Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to my liking?
The best way to check doneness is with a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat.
Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites ahead of time?
While these steak bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance. Just reheat it gently before tossing in the cooked steak bites to serve.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites pair wonderfully with a side salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or even sautéed vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the rich flavors beautifully!
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. It’ll elevate the flavor and add a nice heat that balances the richness of the butter.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Butter Steak Bites is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The rich aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each tender bite bursts with flavor, making it a dish that sparks conversation and laughter. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these steak bites are sure to impress. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying good food with great company. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender, flavorful pieces of steak cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, season the steak cubes with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, allowing a nice sear to form.
Flip the steak cubes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter mixture. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
Substitute the sirloin steak with tenderloin or ribeye for a different flavor and texture.