Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Tender, juicy cubes of steak seared to a perfect golden brown and finished in a sizzling pool of garlic butter. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 15 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight hero.
Equipment
- Large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Paper towels
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press or mincer
- Small bowl for minced garlic
- Serving platter or bowl
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Pat the steak cubes completely dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until shimmering and just about to smoke.
- Carefully add the steak cubes in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side without moving them, until a deep brown crust forms. Use tongs to turn.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce until every piece is coated. Remove from heat immediately.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve right away.
Notes
For best results, do not overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it. Garlic burns quickly, so keep it moving and cook only 20-30 seconds. Let the steak bites rest for 1 minute after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet. Variations: add a splash of Worcestershire sauce after searing for deeper umami, or toss in fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs with the butter for an herb-infused version.