Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a juicy, tender piece of steak coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This recipe for Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites is one of my all-time favorites because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it as an appetizer at a gathering, these steak bites are guaranteed to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can achieve bold, savory flavors that melt in your mouth. The combination of seared steak, infused with garlic and butter, creates a rich and comforting dish that pairs well with just about anything. If you’re a fan of steak but don’t want to deal with the hassle of grilling, this stovetop method is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute meal.
Juicy & Flavorful – The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural richness of the steak.
Minimal Ingredients – Simple pantry staples come together for a restaurant-worthy dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as a main course, appetizer, or even over pasta or rice.
One-Pan Recipe – Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use?

When making steak bites, choosing the right cut of beef is key to achieving the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. I prefer using sirloin because it’s lean, affordable, and remains juicy when cooked quickly. However, if you’re looking for an even more luxurious option, ribeye or tenderloin will provide a rich, buttery texture. New York strip is another great choice, as it has a good amount of marbling that keeps the steak bites flavorful. Whatever cut you choose, be sure to trim excess fat and cut the steak into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up, here are some great substitutions:

Steak Alternatives – Try chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Butter Substitute – Use ghee for a nuttier flavor, or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Garlic Swap – Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Herb Variations – Instead of parsley, try thyme, rosemary, or chives for a different aroma.
Spice it Up – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
Low-Carb Sauce – Swap Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos for a keto-friendly version.

Ingredients for Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect bite—tender steak, rich butter, and bold garlic come together for an irresistible dish.

Steak – The star of the dish! Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin work best for a juicy and flavorful result.
Butter – Adds richness and helps create that velvety garlic sauce that coats the steak bites beautifully.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the steak to perfection, creating a golden crust while preventing the butter from burning.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the steak. Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best taste.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a deep, umami-packed flavor that complements the steak’s richness.
Fresh Parsley – A touch of freshness to balance out the bold flavors and add a pop of color.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – If you like a little heat, this gives the dish a subtle spicy kick.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a better sear. Then, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot before adding the steak to get a perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Once the pan is hot, add the steak pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary. Let them sear for 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them. Then, flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Return the cooked steak bites to the pan, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to soak up all the flavors. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if using.

How Long to Cook Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites

The key to perfectly cooked steak bites is a quick, high-heat sear. Depending on your preferred doneness, here’s a general guide:

Rare: 2 minutes per side (internal temp: 125°F)
Medium-Rare: 3 minutes per side (internal temp: 135°F)
Medium: 4 minutes per side (internal temp: 145°F)
Medium-Well: 5 minutes per side (internal temp: 155°F)
Well-Done: 6+ minutes per side (internal temp: 160°F)

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, as overcooking can make the steak tough.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Pat the steak dry – Moisture prevents a good sear. Dry the steak with paper towels before cooking.
Use a hot pan – A preheated skillet ensures a golden crust on the steak bites. Cast iron works best!
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed to allow each piece to sear properly.
Let the steak rest – After cooking, let the steak bites sit for a couple of minutes to retain their juices.
Adjust seasoning at the end – Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
Add garlic at the right time – Cooking garlic too early can cause it to burn. Always add it after searing the steak.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Drying Step – If you don’t pat the steak dry, it won’t sear properly and may steam instead.
Overcrowding the Pan – This lowers the temperature of the skillet, preventing a nice crust from forming.
Using Cold Steak – Let the steak sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even doneness.
Cooking on Low Heat – A hot pan is essential for locking in juices and getting a perfect sear.
Adding Butter Too Early – Butter burns at high heat, so wait until after searing the steak to add it.
Overcooking the Steak – Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent dry, chewy steak bites.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

These steak bites are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are eight delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect base for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add a fresh, caramelized contrast to the rich steak bites.

3. Buttered Rice

A simple side of fluffy rice with a hint of butter complements the bold flavors of the dish.

4. Crispy French Fries

Steak and fries are a classic combination—try homemade or seasoned fries for extra flavor.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms and steak go hand in hand, especially when cooked in the same garlic butter sauce.

6. Caesar Salad

A fresh, crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the steak and adds a refreshing crunch.

7. Crusty Bread

Use toasted bread to soak up every drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.

8. Creamed Spinach

This steakhouse favorite is a creamy, comforting side that pairs perfectly with juicy steak bites.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare because these steak bites are so delicious!), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate: Store the steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm them in a hot skillet with a little butter for 2-3 minutes to retain their tenderness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.
Freeze: Place cooled steak bites in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

The following nutrition estimate is based on a 4-ounce serving of garlic butter steak bites:

Calories: 350
Protein: 32g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 450mg

These values may vary based on the type of steak used and any additional seasonings or sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for the best sear.

2. What’s the best pan to use for steak bites?

A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat well and creates a perfect crust on the steak. A stainless steel pan also works well.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with ghee for a lactose-friendly option or use olive oil for a completely dairy-free version.

4. How do I keep the steak bites tender?

Avoid overcooking and let the steak rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to retain its juices. Cutting against the grain also helps with tenderness.

5. Can I add other seasonings?

Yes! Try smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, or a steak rub for extra flavor. Just be mindful of salt levels if using pre-made seasonings.

6. What’s the best way to reheat steak bites?

Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving to prevent toughness.

7. Can I make these ahead of time?

Steak bites taste best fresh, but you can prep them in advance by cutting the steak and storing it in the fridge until ready to cook.

8. What’s a good dipping sauce for steak bites?

Garlic butter is already packed with flavor, but you can serve them with ranch, chimichurri, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.

Conclusion

If you love quick and flavorful meals, these Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a must-try! Perfect for a simple dinner or a fun appetizer, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends!