In the midst of a chaotic week, who doesn’t crave a swift escape into culinary bliss? Enter my Garlic Butter Steak Bites with a Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce—your new go-to weeknight dinner recipe. Picture tender, juicy bites of steak kissed by garlicky butter, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce that makes any table feel like a fine dining experience. The best part? This easy steak recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, allowing you to savor genuine comfort without the fuss. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to cater to any dietary preference; swap in ribeye for a richer flavor or toss in some spinach for added greens. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a mouth-watering feast?
Why are Garlic Butter Steak Bites a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can transform a busy night into a gourmet experience that even novice cooks will enjoy.
Flavor Explosion: The heavenly combination of garlic butter and rich Parmesan cream creates a taste sensation that tantalizes every palate.
Versatile Dish: Whether you prefer sirloin or ribeye, this recipe is easily customizable to fit your dietary needs. Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These steak bites are impressive enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, ensuring your guests and family will ask for seconds!
Elevate your meal with this dish and consider pairing it with a crisp salad or Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Ingredients
• Prepare to indulge in savory deliciousness!
For the Steak Bites
- Sirloin Steak – Perfect base for rich flavor and juiciness; you can swap in ribeye for extra tenderness.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and ensuring a beautiful browning on the steak.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds depth and heat; it truly elevates your steak experience.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a delightful smokiness, though you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
- Garlic Powder – Boosts the garlic flavor; fresh garlic can also be used for a more intense aroma.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for searing; it helps achieve that delightful crispiness on the outside.
For the Cream Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Brings richness to both the steak and the sauce; substitute salted butter if needed.
- Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic adds robust flavor; be cautious not to burn it while sautéing.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety texture; half-and-half can be a lighter option.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a cheesy taste and helps thicken the sauce; freshly grated works best.
- Beef Broth – Deepens the sauce flavor with an umami kick; vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
- Fresh Parsley – This vibrant herb garnishes your dish beautifully; while optional, it’s highly recommended.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Add these for a sprinkle of spice and heat if desired.
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, you’re one step closer to savoring these Garlic Butter Steak Bites that will brighten any weeknight dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce
Step 1: Season the Steak Bites
Begin by cutting the sirloin steak into 1-inch cubes and patting it dry with paper towels. Season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let the steak bites sit for five minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate, enhancing the flavors of your Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan to combine the oils as they melt and become hot—look for a shimmering surface, which indicates the perfect temperature for searing. This step is essential for achieving a crispy exterior on the steak bites.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak bites for about 3 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a golden-brown crust to form. Flip the bites and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side until they reach medium-rare doneness. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, stirring frequently. Sauté for approximately one minute until fragrant and golden, ensuring you don’t let the garlic burn, which creates unwanted bitterness. This will infuse your rich Parmesan cream sauce with a delightful garlic flavor.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes, letting it thicken slightly while stirring occasionally. The sauce should become creamy and luxurious—just what you want for your Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan
Take the skillet off the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This is the key step to creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats your steak bites perfectly.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce until fully coated. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you desire. Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites immediately over your favorite base, like mashed potatoes or zucchini noodles, for a satisfying meal.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with these fun twists!
- Ribeye Upgrade: Swap sirloin for ribeye steak, enhancing tenderness and richness for a truly indulgent experience.
- Mushroom Boost: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet while sautéing garlic for an earthy flavor that complements the steak.
- Spinach Surprise: Toss in fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition, making your meal even more vibrant.
- Creamy Alternative: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still maintains a creamy texture.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace steak with hearty tempeh for a satisfying vegetarian option that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Spicy Spin: Sprinkle in additional red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for an extra kick that will thrill heat lovers.
- Herb Allure: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic for an aromatic twist that brings a delightful fragrance.
- Zesty Lemon: Add a splash of lemon juice in the sauce for a refreshing zing that balances the richness of the cream.
With these simple variations, you can transform your Garlic Butter Steak Bites into a dish that excites every palate and fits any occasion. For more easy weeknight dinners, check out my Pot Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini for another winning recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and cut the steak bites up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rich Parmesan cream sauce can also be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply reheat it gently before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, quickly sear the steak bites and add them to the reheated sauce. This method not only saves valuable time but guarantees that your meal will be just as delicious and satisfying on a busy weeknight!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the steak tender and juicy.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled steak bites tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 1 month.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Garlic Butter Steak Bites overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Warm the thawed steak bites in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Transform your delicious steak experience into a complete meal with these flavorful pairings that will make your dinner unforgettable.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the savory steak bites and luxurious sauce.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances the richness of the steak while adding a lovely crunch.
-
Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy quinoa salad with fresh herbs adds texture and a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
-
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, transforming your meal into a comforting feast.
-
Sauteed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach brings a touch of freshness and a pop of green while balancing the richness of the dish.
-
Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, beautifully pairs with the steak, enhancing the meal’s sophisticated feel.
-
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, providing a delightful contrast to the savory steak.
-
Fresh Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette brightens up the plate and adds a refreshing crunch alongside the rich steak.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
-
Pat the Steak Dry: Ensure the steak is patted dry before seasoning to achieve a great sear and crispy texture on the outside.
-
Sear in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to facilitate proper browning. Searing too many at once can steam the steak instead.
-
Garlic Precision: Monitor the garlic closely while sautéing. It can burn quickly and turn bitter, ruining the creamy sauce.
-
Thickening Techniques: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or create a cornstarch slurry to mix in for a velvety finish.
-
Storage Smartly: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the tenderness of the Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your steak, look for cuts with good marbling, which is the intramuscular fat that ensures tenderness and flavor. Sirloin is a great option, but if you prefer something richer, ribeye is a fantastic substitution due to its increased fat content. Ensure the meat is bright red, without dark spots or excessive moisture—it should be firm to the touch.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat to maintain that juicy texture. If you’re pressed for time, the microwave works, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the meat.
Can Garlic Butter Steak Bites be frozen?
Very! If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled steak bites tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To defrost, simply place them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for the best results.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
It’s an easy fix! To thicken your Parmesan cream sauce, return it to low heat and let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional couple of minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can adapt this recipe quite easily. For a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. Always check for allergies when serving, especially with ingredients like Parmesan, and feel free to swap the beef broth with vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this dish with other vegetables?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely add mushrooms or spinach to this dish. Simply sauté them in the same pan after the garlic for added flavor and nutrition. This can elevate the meal, making it a delightful one-pan wonder!
Irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Bites in 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the sirloin steak into 1-inch cubes and pat it dry with paper towels. Season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let sit for five minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Swirl to combine.
- Add the seasoned steak bites in batches and sear for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook an additional 3 minutes.
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, and once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about one minute.
- Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, then stir in the heavy cream and let simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss until fully coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Leave a Reply