Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a simple yet elegant dish that will quickly become a favorite. These juicy, tender steak pieces are cooked to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them ideal for both special occasions and quick weeknight dinners. The best part? You can make this mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, these steak bites are perfect for a weeknight dinner or last-minute gatherings.
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Juicy and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce keeps the steak incredibly moist, while the rosemary adds a delicious aromatic depth.
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Versatile: Perfect for two people, but you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve more. It's great for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.
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Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few simple ingredients to achieve an incredible, restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
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Rib-eye steak (or Sirloin, Tenderloin, or New York Strip steak)
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Salt and black pepper (to taste)
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Olive oil
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Unsalted butter
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Garlic cloves (minced)
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Dried rosemary (or dried thyme)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Season the Meat: Generously season the steak with salt and pepper on all sides. Set aside.
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Prepare the Pan: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Add olive oil and let it heat for another minute.
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Brown the Steak: Add the steak bites to the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Make the Garlic Butter: Add butter to the same pan and let it melt completely. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and rosemary. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Baste the Steak: Return the steak bites to the pan and spoon the garlic butter over the meat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for medium rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more cooked.
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Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Spices: Add smoked paprika, ground cumin, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
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Different Steak Cuts: If rib-eye is not available, substitute with sirloin, tenderloin, or New York strip steaks.
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Add Shallots: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add finely chopped shallots along with the garlic.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the steak bites in a pan over medium heat for 5 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes with a bit of water or beef broth.
FAQs
How do I make my steak bites tender?
Choose a tender cut like rib-eye or sirloin and cook the steak at high heat for a short time to keep it juicy and tender.
Can I use a different oil for this recipe?
Yes, vegetable, corn, or canola oil will work well as substitutes for olive oil.
Can I freeze garlic butter steak bites?
Yes, you can freeze the steak bites for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
How do I know when my steak is cooked to my liking?
For medium-rare, cook for 1-2 minutes after basting. For a more well-done steak, increase the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe if you use salted butter.
What can I serve with garlic butter steak bites?
Serve them with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried rosemary?
Yes, fresh rosemary can be used. Just use 3 times the amount of dried rosemary.
How long should I let the steak rest before cooking?
Allow the steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking to ensure it stays juicy.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
It's best to cook the steak just before serving, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready.
What’s the best way to get a good sear on the steak?
Ensure your pan is hot before adding the steak. Avoid moving the meat around too much while cooking for a beautiful sear.
Conclusion
These garlic butter steak bites are the epitome of easy elegance, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. Whether for a casual dinner or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
