Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Featured in: Savory Vibes

These steak bites feature juicy sirloin cubes perfectly seared and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The method involves quick high-heat searing to lock in the meat's tenderness, followed by a flavorful sauce made with melted butter, fresh garlic, and parsley. Optional crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat. Ideal for a quick, savory dish served alongside vegetables or crusty bread.

This dish shines in its balance of buttery richness and aromatic garlic, making it a simple yet impressive choice for any meal. Preparation and cooking take just 20 minutes, offering a satisfying protein packed option with minimal fuss.

Updated on Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:51:00 GMT
Golden-brown Garlic Butter Steak Bites glistening from the skillet, ready to serve with parsley. Save
Golden-brown Garlic Butter Steak Bites glistening from the skillet, ready to serve with parsley. | lickjoke.com

I made these on a Tuesday night when I needed something fast but craving something that felt special. The butter hit the hot pan and the whole kitchen changed in seconds. Now they are my go to when I want restaurant style food without the restaurant wait.

My brother in law stood by the stove eating them straight from the pan with a fork last Thanksgiving. I had to shoo him away so I could plate them for the actual dinner.

Ingredients

  • Sirloin steak: Cut into even cubes so everything cooks at the same speed and you get perfect edges all around
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: Season aggressively because the steak can handle it and the butter needs that base flavor
  • Unsalted butter: Letting you control the salt level while building that rich sauce
  • Fresh garlic: Do not use the jarred stuff here because fresh garlic makes the butter sing
  • Fresh parsley: Brings color and a fresh bright note against all that rich butter
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Add these if you like a little warmth running through the background
  • Olive oil: Handles the high heat sear better than butter alone would

Instructions

Season the steak:
Pat those cubes completely dry with paper towels and hit them with salt and pepper on all sides.
Get the pan ripping hot:
Crank that skillet to high heat and add the olive oil until it shimmers.
Sear hard:
Lay the steak in one even layer and let it develop a serious crust before touching it.
Build the butter sauce:
Drop the heat back and melt butter into the pan then throw in garlic for thirty seconds.
Bring it together:
Toss the steak back in and roll it around until every piece wears that butter like a coat.
Vibrant image of Garlic Butter Steak Bites, perfectly seared and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Save
Vibrant image of Garlic Butter Steak Bites, perfectly seared and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. | lickjoke.com

These became our anniversary dinner tradition because we can make them together while dancing in the kitchen.

Choosing The Right Cut

Sirloin gives you great flavor without the ribeye price tag but you can use whatever looks good at the butcher counter. Ribeye brings more fat while New York strip offers a tighter chew.

Getting The Sear Right

That hard crust comes from patience and high heat. Listen for the sizzle when the meat hits the pan and wait for it to deepen before you flip.

Serving Ideas

Mashed potatoes soak up that butter sauce like nothing else. Crusty bread works too if you want to drag every drop through the sauce.

  • Lemon juice cuts through the richness
  • Worcestershire adds depth if you want more umami
  • Keep the steak moving in the final toss so everything gets coated
Tender, juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites arranged on a plate offering a tempting close up view. Save
Tender, juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites arranged on a plate offering a tempting close up view. | lickjoke.com

These steak bites turn any random weeknight into something worth remembering.

Recipe Guide

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin steak cubes are ideal for tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or New York strip can also be used.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic on medium-low heat until fragrant and avoid browning to maintain its mild, sweet flavor.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes during the butter sauce step for a gentle heat kick.

What sides complement this dish?

Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, including butter and steak.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Tender steak cubes in garlicky butter sauce, seared quickly for a flavorful main or appetizer.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Hannah Brooks


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition guidelines No gluten, Carb-conscious

Components

Steak

01 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 1 tsp kosher salt
03 0.5 tsp black pepper

Garlic Butter Sauce

01 3 tbsp unsalted butter
02 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
03 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
04 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Cooking

01 1 tbsp olive oil

Method

Phase 01

Season steak: Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.

Phase 02

Heat skillet and add oil: Heat a large skillet over high heat, add olive oil, and swirl to coat the surface.

Phase 03

Sear steak bites: Arrange steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding, sear for 2 minutes without stirring, then turn to brown all sides for an additional 2 to 3 minutes for medium-rare. Remove steak bites and cover loosely.

Phase 04

Prepare garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter to the skillet, and melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant without browning.

Phase 05

Combine steak with sauce: Return steak bites to the skillet, toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter sauce, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.

Phase 06

Serve: Serve immediately, spooning pan sauce over the steak bites.

Tools needed

  • Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
  • Tongs
  • Chef's knife and cutting board

Allergy details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter).
  • Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free if necessary.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 345
  • Fats: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Proteins: 32 g