Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful & Easy
If you love steak but want something quick, flavorful, and easy to eat, steak bites are the answer. These juicy, tender chunks of beef are seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes them completely irresistible. Perfect as an appetizer, weeknight dinner, or even a party snack, steak bites are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes deliver the boldest flavors.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip, or tenderloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the Steak – Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat the Pan – In a large skillet or cast iron pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
- Cook the Steak Bites – Add steak cubes in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan). Sear for 2–3 minutes without moving them, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and medium-rare to medium. Remove and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter – In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss & Serve – Return steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in garlic butter. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4
Tips & Variations
- Best Cut of Beef: Sirloin is affordable and tender, but ribeye or tenderloin will give extra juiciness.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire to the garlic butter for umami depth.
- Spicy Version: Toss steak bites with chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Herb Lovers: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter for a fragrant twist.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook steak bites in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on the cut of beef and butter used.)
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Use a nonstick skillet and reduce oil to 1 tablespoon.
- Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally keto—just pair with low-carb sides like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; just ensure any sauces used (like soy sauce) are gluten-free certified.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter for vegan butter or olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Steak bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. They’re also fantastic as a party appetizer with toothpicks, paired with a dipping sauce like chimichurri, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo. Juicy, buttery, and bursting with flavor—this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
FAQ’s
Q1: What cut of steak is best for steak bites?
Sirloin is the most popular choice for its tenderness and affordability, but ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin also work beautifully.
Q2: How do I prevent steak bites from being tough?
Make sure the pan is hot, avoid overcrowding, and don’t overcook. Medium-rare to medium is best for tenderness.
Q3: Can I make steak bites ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can cook and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a hot skillet with a little butter.
Q4: Can steak bites be grilled?
Yes! Thread steak cubes onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally.
Q5: What sauces go well with steak bites?
Garlic butter is classic, but chimichurri, peppercorn sauce, or a balsamic glaze are also delicious.
