Garlic Butter Steak Bites

This mouthwatering garlic butter steak bite recipe transforms ordinary sirloin into juicy, flavor-packed morsels that disappear from plates in minutes. The perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior makes these bites irresistible for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

I first created these steak bites when I needed a quick dinner that would please both my steak-loving partner and garlic-obsessed best friend. What started as a simple solution has become our most requested meal when entertaining.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak cubes: Provide the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor without breaking the bank. Look for well-marbled pieces for the juiciest results
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the meat's natural flavors. Use kosher salt for the best texture and flavor distribution
• Red pepper flakes: Add a subtle heat that complements the rich butter. Adjust according to your spice preference
• Avocado oil: Offers a high smoke point perfect for achieving that beautiful sear without burning
• Salted butter: Creates the foundation of our luxurious sauce. Use European-style butter for extra richness if available
• Fresh garlic cloves: Provide aromatic flavor that dried versions simply cannot match. Choose firm bulbs with tight skin
• Flat-leaf parsley: Adds brightness and color that cuts through the richness. Italian varieties offer more robust flavor than curly parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the resting station:

Set a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the cooked steak bites. This prevents them from getting soggy while you finish cooking the remaining batches.

Season and rest the meat:

Add steak cubes to a large bowl and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating on all surfaces. Let the seasoned meat rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This crucial step allows the meat to come to an optimal cooking temperature and gives the seasonings time to penetrate.

Oil the meat:

Drizzle avocado oil over the steak cubes and toss until every piece is lightly coated. The oil creates a barrier that helps develop a beautiful crust while sealing in juices.

Sear in batches:

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it's properly hot. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately. Add half the steak cubes in a single layer, ensuring space between each piece. Cook for 2-3 minutes until deeply browned on one side, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes. The meat should develop a rich crust while remaining pink inside. Transfer to the prepared rack and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Create the garlic butter sauce:

Reduce heat to low and add butter to the same skillet, allowing the fond from the meat to incorporate into your sauce. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for exactly 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove from heat immediately to prevent the garlic from burning and turning bitter.

Combine and finish:

Return all steak cubes to the skillet and toss gently to coat each piece in the fragrant garlic butter. The warm sauce will cling to the meat, creating an irresistible glaze. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving for color and brightness.

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The magic of this dish truly lies in the fond that develops in the pan. Those browned bits might look like something to scrub away, but they contain concentrated flavor compounds that dissolve into the butter, creating a sauce with remarkable depth. My grandmother taught me this technique years ago, and it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinarily special.

Perfect Pairings

These steak bites are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. For a complete meal, I recommend serving them alongside roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic. The crispy exterior of the potatoes mirrors the texture of the steak while soaking up any extra sauce. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meat.

Storage and Reheating

While these steak bites are best enjoyed immediately, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat rather than a microwave. Add a small pat of butter to restore moisture and warm gently until just heated through. Overheating will cause the meat to toughen. Alternatively, enjoy leftovers cold, sliced thin over a salad for lunch the next day.

Mastering the Perfect Temperature

The difference between exceptional and merely good steak bites comes down to temperature control. For medium-rare results with a warm red center, cook until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F. Medium doneness requires 140-145°F and will show a warm pink center. I strongly recommend investing in an instant-read thermometer for precision. Remember that smaller cuts cook more quickly than traditional steaks, so timing is crucial.

Ingredient Substitutions

No sirloin available? Ribeye offers more marbling and tenderness but costs more, while strip steak provides excellent flavor with slightly more chew. For budget options, consider chuck eye steak cut into smaller pieces and cooked slightly longer. Olive oil can replace avocado oil in a pinch, though watch carefully as it has a lower smoke point. Unsalted butter works well too just add an extra pinch of salt to the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of steak works best for these bites?

Sirloin steak is ideal due to its tender texture and even cooking. However, ribeye or tenderloin can also be used for a richer flavor.

→ How can I ensure my steak bites are crispy?

Cook them in a single layer on a hot skillet without overcrowding. This allows a proper sear and prevents steaming.

→ Should I bring the steak to room temperature before cooking?

Yes, letting the steak rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes ensures even cooking and enhances flavor absorption.

→ Can I use a different oil instead of avocado oil?

Yes, you can substitute with other high smoke-point oils like grapeseed oil or vegetable oil for similar results.

→ How do I reheat steak bites without drying them out?

Reheat the steak bites in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to keep them moist and tender.

→ What are some good side dishes to pair with these steak bites?

Roasted potatoes, Parmesan green beans, or a fresh garden salad make excellent accompaniments for steak bites.