If you’re looking for a dish that combines juicy, tender meat with the rich, mouthwatering flavor of butter and garlic, then Garlic Butter Steak Bites are your new best friend in the kitchen. These bite-sized pieces of steak pack an incredible punch of flavor thanks to the perfect sear and the luscious garlic butter sauce that coats each tender chunk. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, Garlic Butter Steak Bites deliver a delicious, savory experience that never fails to satisfy.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these ingredients; each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma that make Garlic Butter Steak Bites so irresistible. From the choice of steak to the fresh garlic and butter, every element works together in harmony to create an unforgettable dish.

1 to 1 1/4 pounds steak: Choose top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak—these cuts offer great marbling and tenderness for juicy bites.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the steak perfectly and enhancing the natural flavors.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps carry the garlic’s fragrance throughout the dish.
4 to 6 cloves garlic, chopped: Fresh garlic provides the bold, aromatic foundation that makes this dish unforgettable.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Step 1: Cut and Season the Steak

First, take your selected cut of steak and cut it into approximately 1 1/2-inch pieces. Be sure to pat each piece dry with a paper towel—this crucial step helps achieve that beautiful sear instead of steaming the meat. Then sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground pepper all around each piece; I find Diamond Crystal kosher salt perfect here, using about 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper for the best flavor balance.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet and Add Butter

Place a large 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet on medium heat and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and watch for a sizzle and slight browning—that’s your cue to add the steak bites. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure there is around 1/2 inch of space between each bite so they don’t crowd and steam.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Leave the steak bites undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Then, using tongs or a spatula, flip each bite over to sear the other side. You want them cooked to medium doneness, about 140 to 145°F in the center, which usually takes another 2 to 3 minutes. Once done, transfer the steak bites to a separate dish to rest.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Butter and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with the chopped garlic. Gently sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant and cooked through but not browned, about 2 to 3 minutes. Use a wooden spatula to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the pan bottom—they’re packed with flavor and make the sauce irresistible.

Step 5: Return Steak to the Pan

Remove the skillet from the heat and toss the steak bites back into the garlic butter sauce. Stir gently so every piece is coated in that delicious, silky sauce. Then transfer the steak bites to your serving dish and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bit of color and freshness if you like.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a vibrant green hue and fresh herbal note that brightens the dish. For a touch of indulgence, a few shavings of parmesan or a drizzle of lemon juice can amplify the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic Butter Steak Bites pair wonderfully with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a cozy, hearty meal, try serving them over garlic butter noodles or alongside sautéed spinach with garlic for an extra flavor hit.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, consider serving the steak bites on a wooden board with a bowl of extra garlic butter sauce for dipping. Alternatively, skewer the bites with a few cherry tomatoes or grilled veggies for easy, shareable platters perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Garlic Butter Steak Bites left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days and keep their tender texture as long as you reheat them gently.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for the tenderness and texture of the steak bites, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Garlic Butter Steak Bites is gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve their juiciness and to warm the garlic butter sauce without burning it. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may dry out the steak pieces.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with other cuts. Just aim for something well-marbled to keep the bites juicy.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked to medium?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 140 to 145°F, your steak bites will be perfectly medium – juicy yet cooked through.

Can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites spicy?

Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the steak before cooking to add a pleasant kick that complements the butter and garlic nicely.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best for that vibrant, aromatic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Use about 1/2 teaspoon during cooking, but keep in mind the flavor won’t be as bright or fresh.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To keep things dairy-free, swap out the butter for a high-quality olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The steak bites will still have incredible flavor, though the richness from butter won’t be as pronounced.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites at home feels like treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy tender, flavorful steak bites coated in a sensational garlic butter sauce that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Go ahead, dive in and savor every delicious bite—you deserve it.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

Author: Charlotte
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender, juicy pieces of steak sautéed to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course, delivering a restaurant-quality experience with simple ingredients and minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

1 to 1 1/4 pounds top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak
Kosher salt, about 3/4 teaspoon (Diamond Crystal preferred)
Freshly ground black pepper, about 1/2 teaspoon

Butter and Garlic

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 to 6 cloves garlic, chopped

Garnish

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

Cut and season the steak: Cut the steak into approximately 1 1/2-inch pieces and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Sprinkle all sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat the skillet and add butter: Place a large 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium heat and allow it to heat for about 3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt until it begins to sizzle and brown.
Add the steak bites: Arrange the steak pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet, making sure to leave at least 1/2 inch of space around each piece. If the skillet is smaller, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Sear the steak bites: Without moving them, sear the steak for about 3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip each piece with tongs or a spatula and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes for medium doneness (140-145°F internal temperature). Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside on a dish.
Add remaining butter and garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the chopped garlic to the pan. Sauté gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to release the flavorful browned bits from the pan bottom, until the garlic is fragrant and cooked through but not browned.
Return steak to the pan: Remove the pan from the heat and add the steak bites back into the skillet. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly with the rich garlic butter sauce.
Serve: Transfer the coated steak bites to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Patting the steak dry before seasoning is essential for a great sear.
Use a thermometer to check for medium doneness for best results.
If cooking in batches, keep cooked pieces warm in a low oven while finishing the rest.
Turn on your range hood or open windows to help reduce smoke from searing.
Fresh parsley adds a bright finish but is optional.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Appetizer
Method: Searing, Sautéing
Cuisine: American