Looking for a mouthwatering, easy-to-make recipe that will satisfy even the most intense steak cravings? This Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is your answer. Juicy, tender pieces of steak drenched in rich, garlicky butter sauce make the perfect dinner, appetizer, or even snack. If you’re a fan of simple recipes that deliver big flavor, read on for all the details you need to make the perfect garlic butter steak bites!

What are Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small, tender pieces of steak seared to perfection in a skillet, then coated with a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. This dish is incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even add it to salads and pasta. The key to perfect steak bites is a quick, hot sear that locks in the juices and flavor, followed by a burst of garlicky, buttery goodness.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
To create these delicious garlic butter steak bites, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry and fridge.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb of steak (like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh rosemary sprigs
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Lemon juice for a zesty finish
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to switch things up according to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations:
- Steak Choices: If sirloin is unavailable, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or New York strip for equally tender results.
- Butter Alternatives: Substitute butter with ghee or a high-quality vegan butter if you’re looking to make it dairy-free.
- Garlic Powder Substitute: If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, though fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
- Herb Options: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even oregano to enhance the flavors. Fresh herbs work best, but dried ones will do in a pinch.
- Spicy Option: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Cut the Steak: Pat the steak dry with a paper towel and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Drying the steak ensures a good sear, which gives the bites a crispy exterior.
- Season Generously: Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle on a bit of garlic powder if you love extra garlic flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet (cast-iron works best) over medium-high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat up until it’s shimmering.
- Cook the Steak: Add the steak cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they form a nice crust. Avoid moving the steak too much, as this will prevent it from browning properly.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Add the Butter: Lower the heat slightly and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Toss and Coat
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until each piece is well-coated. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes in the sauce for extra flavor.
- Finish with Parsley: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those who want a quick recap, here’s a step-by-step guide to perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- Prepare and Season the Steak: Cut and season the steak cubes.
- Sear the Steak: Cook in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt butter, then add garlic and herbs.
- Combine and Coat: Toss steak bites in garlic butter until well-coated.
Following these steps will yield juicy, tender steak bites every time!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This is a common mistake that can result in steaming instead of searing the steak bites. Make sure to cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Steak: Since steak bites are small, they cook quickly. Keep an eye on them to avoid a chewy texture.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast, and burned garlic can make the dish taste bitter. Make sure to cook it over low heat after the initial sear.
- Using Cold Steak: Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and sear better.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, from casual to elegant presentations. Here are some tips to make your dish stand out.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- As an Appetizer: Serve the steak bites with toothpicks on a large platter. Pair with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or chimichurri for extra flavor.
- Main Course: Plate the steak bites with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.
- Over Pasta or Rice: Serve the steak bites over cooked pasta or rice and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top for a hearty dish.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Garnish with Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds color and freshness.
- Lemon Wedges on the Side: Add lemon wedges for those who prefer a citrusy finish.
- Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic look, serve the steak bites straight out of the skillet they were cooked in.
- Use Small Bowls for Appetizers: If serving as finger food, divide the steak bites into small bowls or ramekins for individual servings.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe Tips
- Use a Hot Skillet: To get a nice crust on your steak bites, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak.
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for tender cuts of steak like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye for the best texture.
- Don’t Skimp on Butter: Butter not only adds flavor but also helps keep the steak bites juicy and tender.
- Add Garlic Towards the End: Adding garlic early on can result in burning. Add it after the steak has seared to avoid bitterness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the steak completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure even cooking and a good sear.
What’s the best pan for cooking steak bites?
A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat well and helps achieve a nice crust on the steak bites.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best results.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil or ghee, but it may alter the taste slightly. Butter gives a rich, creamy flavor that’s hard to replicate.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. This dish is versatile, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, these juicy, garlicky steak bites are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in minutes. Give this recipe a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory bite!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe delivers juicy, flavorful steak pieces coated in a delicious garlic butter sauce. It's a quick, easy dish perfect for any night. These steak bites are pan-seared to perfection, offering a delightful combination of tender meat and savory garlic flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add butter and garlic, cooking until garlic is fragrant and butter is melted, coating the steak in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye for the best tenderness.
- Adjust garlic to taste if you prefer a stronger or milder flavor.
- Serve over rice, with potatoes, or with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
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