Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with an easy preparation method. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a quick meal, this recipe showcases tender steak seared to perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or paired with your favorite sides, these steak bites are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter elevates the taste to a new level.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish alongside rice or vegetables.
• Perfectly Cooked Steak: Achieve your desired doneness easily with a meat thermometer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, impressing guests with minimal effort.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking experience and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention for perfect searing.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your steak reaches the ideal temperature for your preferred doneness.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting the ribeye into bite-sized pieces quick and easy.

Ingredients

A delicious and easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe that is packed with flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes!

For the Steak Bites

• 1 pound ribeye steak, cut into 1 inch pieces (trim excess fat)
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2-3 tablespoons butter (sub ghee)
• 2-3 teaspoons garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, roughly chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Cut the ribeye steak into 1-inch sized pieces. Pat dry with clean paper towels.
2. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Bring a large cast iron skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat it evenly.
3. When the oil is hot enough (it should sizzle if you flick water on it), sear the steak on both sides for approximately 30-60 seconds.
4. Remove from the skillet when seared but not fully cooked, placing them on a nearby plate. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic after removing steak bites.
2. Allow the butter to melt before adding back the steak pieces along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate.
3. Toss until all pieces are well coated in garlic butter. Continue tossing until they reach your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer to check).

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

1. Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites immediately alongside rice and sautéed zucchini for a balanced meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are not only flavorful but also versatile. Pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable.

With Rice

• Serve garlic butter steak bites over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling dish that absorbs all the delicious flavors.

On a Salad

• Toss the steak bites with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option that’s packed with protein.

In a Wrap

• Wrap the steak bites in a warm tortilla with avocado, lettuce, and salsa for a quick and satisfying handheld meal.

With Sauteed Vegetables

• Pair your steak bites with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add vibrant color and nutrition to your plate.

On Skewers

• Thread the cooked steak bites onto skewers with grilled vegetables for a fun presentation at any gathering or barbecue.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Getting the perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Choose Quality Meat – Select ribeye or sirloin for great flavor and tenderness.
• Pat Dry – Always pat your steak pieces dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan – Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
• Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a stronger flavor than pre-minced varieties.
• Monitor Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness accurately.
• Rest Before Serving – Letting the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Complementing your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with delicious side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances the richness of the steak.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and vegetables offers a nutritious option.
4. Creamed Spinach – This decadent side dish is rich and complements the savory flavors of the steak bites wonderfully.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with herb butter brings sweetness and freshness to your meal.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the steak.
7. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast in flavor while being easy to prepare.
8. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the dish’s main flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Garlic Butter Steak Bites even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Ignoring the meat’s temperature: Starting with steak that is too cold can cause uneven cooking. Always let your steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many steak bites at once can lead to steaming instead of searing. Work in batches to achieve a nice crust on each piece.
• Not drying the meat: Moisture on the steak surface prevents proper browning. Pat your steak pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Skipping the resting phase: Allowing cooked steak bites to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices. Rest them covered loosely with foil after cooking.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste your dish as you cook and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Place cooled steak bites in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place steak bites on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed, stirring in between for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little butter or oil if desired, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

What cut of meat is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Ribeye is an excellent choice due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness. However, other cuts like sirloin or flank also work well.

Can I customize the seasoning in Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor profile.

How do I know when my Garlic Butter Steak Bites are done?

Use an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).

Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare these in advance, store them properly, and reheat them throughout the week for quick meals.

Can I use different types of butter?

Yes! You can substitute regular butter with ghee or even vegan butter alternatives if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it versatile enough for any meal occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste!