If you crave a quick, tasty treat, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites are perfect for you. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a dish that boasts bold flavors and tender bites of beef. Whether you want a simple weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer, this recipe fits the bill. Ready to satisfy your taste buds? Let’s dive into the savory world of garlic butter magic!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the steak bites.
- Versatile Serving Options: These steak bites can be served as an appetizer, over rice, or with a side of veggies for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, these steak bites look as good as they taste, making them great for entertaining.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
To make delicious garlic butter steak bites, gather these items:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a rich, savory dish. The sirloin steak is tender and packed with flavor. The garlic and herbs add a fragrant touch that makes the bites irresistible.
Seasoning Options
You can adjust the flavors based on your taste. Here are some ideas:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Try smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Use garlic powder if you love garlic.
- Incorporate onion powder for depth.
- Experiment with lemon zest for brightness.
These seasonings can enhance your steak bites and make them unique.
Suggested Garnishes
Garnishing adds a nice touch to your dish. Here are some options:
- Fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Chopped chives for a mild onion flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for a salty bite.
- A squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.
These garnishes not only look good but also add flavor. Choose what you like best to make your steak bites shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
First, take your sirloin steak and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels. Drying the steak helps it sear better. Next, season the steak generously with salt and black pepper. This step is key for flavor.
Cooking the Steak Bites
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Wait until the butter melts and bubbles. Do not let it burn! Add the steak bites in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes. Look for a nice brown crust. This shows they are cooked well. When done, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Stir for 1-2 minutes. Watch the garlic closely to prevent burning. This step creates a fragrant sauce that adds depth.
- Combining and Serving the Dish
Return the steak bites to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Make sure they are well coated. Cook for one more minute to heat everything through. Finally, remove from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your garlic butter steak bites!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
For garlic butter steak bites, I love using sirloin. It has great flavor and tenderness. You can also try ribeye or filet mignon if you want something richer. Choose cuts that are well-marbled. A good amount of fat helps keep the steak juicy and flavorful.
Perfecting Doneness Preferences
Everyone has their favorite way to cook steak. I recommend medium rare for the best taste. That means cooking it until it’s about 130°F (54°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results. If you like it more cooked, go for medium, around 140°F (60°C). Just remember, it will continue to cook a bit after you take it off the heat.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Herbs
While garlic, rosemary, and thyme are great, feel free to get creative! Fresh basil or oregano can add a nice twist. You can even use a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Mix and match to find your perfect flavor. Remember, fresh herbs offer a bright taste, so don’t skip them!
Pro Tips
- Rest the Steak: Let the steak bites rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps to retain the juices and makes the meat more tender.
- Use High-Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. It enhances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the steak bites in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and prevent a good sear.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs according to your preference. Fresh herbs like oregano or basil can add a unique twist to the dish.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites
For a kick, add heat to your steak bites. Use one teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the garlic butter sauce. This brings a warm flavor that pairs well with the garlic. You can also marinate the steak in hot sauce before cooking. This adds spice right into the meat. Adjust the heat based on your taste.
Vegetarian Alternatives
If you want a veggie twist, try mushrooms instead of steak. Portobello or cremini mushrooms work well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps. Use vegetable broth or a vegan butter for the sauce. You’ll still get the rich flavor without the meat. This option is tasty and filling for non-meat lovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these steak bites on a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. The garlic butter sauce adds a nice touch to the sides. You can also pair them with fresh salad or roasted veggies. For a fun twist, place them on skewers for easy eating. Garnish with extra parsley to make the dish pop. Enjoy these bites as an appetizer or a main dish!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your leftover garlic butter steak bites in an airtight container. Let them cool first. Place them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure not to stack them too high to avoid squishing. If you have extra garlic butter sauce, keep it in a separate small container. This way, you can add more flavor when you reheat.
Reheating Tips
To reheat steak bites, use a skillet for best results. Add a little butter or oil to the pan. Heat over medium heat. Add the steak bites and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Place steak bites on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Recommendations
You can freeze garlic butter steak bites, but they taste best fresh. To freeze, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can keep them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet for the best flavor.
FAQs
How do I make steak bites tender?
To make steak bites tender, choose the right cut. Sirloin is a good choice. Always cut the steak against the grain. This means cutting across the muscle fibers. Also, do not overcook the steak. Cook it to medium rare for the best texture. Letting the steak rest helps too. Resting allows juices to settle, making each bite juicy.
What’s the best way to season steak?
The best way to season steak is simple. Use salt and black pepper generously. This brings out the natural flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. These herbs add a nice aroma and taste. For a twist, try garlic powder or paprika. Always season right before cooking for the best results.
How long can I keep garlic butter steak bites in the fridge?
You can keep garlic butter steak bites in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. When ready to eat, reheat them gently in a skillet. This keeps the steak tender and tasty. Enjoy your leftovers!
You now have all the tools to make tasty garlic butter steak bites. We covered the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfecting your dish. Plus, you learned variations and how to store leftovers. Remember, getting the right cut of steak matters. Play with seasonings and garnishes to make it your own. I hope these ideas inspire you to create a great meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing your delicious bite
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Ensure the butter is bubbling but not burnt.
- Add the steak bites in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms and the steak is cooked to your desired doneness (medium rare is ideal). Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Return the steak bites to the skillet, and toss them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and give one last toss. Serve immediately.
