Hey there, it’s Clara from Cooking Inspired! Remember those days when dinner felt like a looming chore? I do, and that’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe for garlic butter steak bites. These little morsels of deliciousness are not only incredibly flavorful but also ready in under 30 minutes! For all the busy moms, women, and families looking for a quick, iron-rich meal, this one’s for you.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Steak Bites
I think my garlic butter steak bites recipe is the best. Here’s why:
- Speedy Searing: The quick searing method locks in the juices for tender, flavorful bites every time.
- Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce: A simple yet decadent garlic butter sauce that elevates the steak to restaurant-quality.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan is all you need, meaning less time scrubbing and more time enjoying!
- Iron-Packed: A great way to get a boost of iron into your diet with a family-friendly meal.
Choosing the Right Steak for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Choosing the right cut of steak can really make or break this recipe. The marbling, those beautiful streaks of fat within the meat, is key to flavor and tenderness. As the steak cooks, the fat melts, keeping the steak moist and adding richness.
For these garlic butter steak bites, I prefer using sirloin steak. It’s a great balance of flavor and affordability. Ribeye is another fantastic option, known for its rich marbling and tenderness, but it comes at a higher price point. Tenderloin, also known as filet mignon, is the most tender cut but is less flavorful and more expensive, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
Sensational Garlic Butter Steak Bites in Under 30 Mins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the steak into roughly 1-inch cubes and add to a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the Gaby’s Everyday Seasoning, gently toss to combine.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add in an additional 2 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the cubes of steak bites and cook in small batches making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 1-2 minutes and then flip to get a great sear and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Once steak is cooked, remove steak from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate. Reduce heat to medium low and add in the vegetable shortening and shallots and season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant the shallots are fragrant. Add in the thyme, garlic and Worcestershire sauce and cook for about 30 seconds more. Add the steak bites back in the vegetable shortening mixture and toss to combine.
Notes
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these amazing steak bites:
- 2 pounds sirloin steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling, plus more for cooking)
- 1½ tablespoons Gaby’s Everyday Seasoning
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 shallot (finely chopped)
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons thyme (finely chopped)
- 6 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- Polenta or Mashed Potatoes (for serving)
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious garlic butter steak bites in no time!
- Cut the steak into roughly 1-inch cubes and add to a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the Gaby’s Everyday Seasoning, gently toss to combine.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add in an additional 2 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the cubes of steak bites and cook in small batches making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 1-2 minutes and then flip to get a great sear and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Once steak is cooked, remove steak from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate. Reduce heat to medium low and add in the vegetable shortening and shallots and season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant the shallots are fragrant. Add in the thyme, garlic and Worcestershire sauce and cook for about 30 seconds more. Add the steak bites back in the vegetable shortening mixture and toss to combine.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here are a few of my go-to tricks for ensuring perfect garlic butter steak bites every single time:
- To prevent sticking, make sure your skillet is screaming hot before adding the steak. It should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates almost immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, resulting in steamed instead of seared steak. Work in batches for the best sear.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s avoid some common pitfalls to make sure these steak bites turn out perfectly:
- Overcooking the steak makes it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Burning the garlic will make the sauce bitter. Keep the heat low when sautéing the garlic, and watch it carefully.
- Skipping the seasoning! Don’t be shy with the kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and Gaby’s Everyday Seasoning, as they add depth and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
These garlic butter steak bites are incredibly versatile! I love serving them over a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a South American twist, try serving them with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. The herbaceous, tangy flavors complement the richness of the steak beautifully. You can also serve these as appetizers with toothpicks for easy snacking. If you’re looking for another [easy weeknight dinner recipe], our stuffed peppers are a fantastic choice. For a [hearty and satisfying family meal] that’s also delicious, explore our ultimate chili recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
| Ingredient | Substitution/Variation |
|---|---|
| Butter | Ghee (for a nutty flavor and lactose-free option) |
| Spices | Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile |
| Steak | Chicken or pork for a non-beef option |
| Low-carb options | Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of polenta or mashed potatoes |
If you’re seeking more quick and healthy options, a [delicious spinach smoothie] can be a perfect start to your day.
Storing and Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, gently warm the steak bites in a skillet over medium-low heat. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help prevent them from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the steak tough.
Equipment Suggestions
Here are a few of my favorite tools for making these steak bites:
- Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (perfect for searing and even heat distribution)
- Meat Thermometer: ThermoPro Digital Meat Thermometer (ensure accurate cooking temperatures)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions I get about making steak bites:
How long do you cook steak bites on each side?
Cooking times depend on your desired level of doneness:
- Rare: About 1 minute per side
- Medium-Rare: 1-2 minutes per side
- Medium: 2-3 minutes per side
What temperature should steak bites be cooked to?
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-140°F
- Medium: 140-150°F
What goes well with steak bites?
Garlic butter steak bites pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salads, or creamy pasta.
What are the best dipping sauces to serve with steak bites?
Some delicious dipping sauce options include:
- Garlic Aioli
- Blue Cheese Dressing
- Spicy Mayo
- Teriyaki Sauce
Can you cook steak bites from frozen?
While it’s best to thaw steak before cooking, you can cook steak bites from frozen in a pinch. Just be sure to sear them over high heat to get a good crust, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do you prevent steak bites from being chewy?
Chewy steak is often the result of overcooking or using a tough cut of meat. Make sure to choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye, and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer.
What’s the best way to scale this recipe up or down?
Scaling this recipe is easy! Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally to the number of servings you need.
Can I use pre-minced garlic? If so, how much?
While I always recommend fresh garlic for the best flavor, you can use pre-minced garlic if you’re short on time. Use about 1 1/2 teaspoons of pre-minced garlic in place of the 6 cloves of fresh garlic. Keep in mind that the flavor won’t be quite as intense.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximate): Calories: 400, Protein: 40g, Fat: 25g, Carbohydrates: 5g
Conclusion
So there you have it: quick, easy, and absolutely delicious garlic butter steak bites that are sure to become a family favorite. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
Now, I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What are some of your favorite ways to serve steak bites? Share your thoughts, questions, and photos in the comments below — I can’t wait to see your culinary creations!
