Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the ultimate quick and easy steak recipe. With a rich, garlicky butter sauce and perfectly seared steak pieces, they’re packed with flavor and ready in just 15 minutes.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or protein-packed snack, this one-pan recipe is low-carb, keto-friendly, and absolutely delicious.
In this article, we’ll cover step-by-step cooking instructions, the best cuts of steak for steak bites, and expert tips to keep them tender and flavorful.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces). Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Sear the steak bites in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan.
Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter and garlic, and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the steak bites to the pan, toss in the garlic butter, and cook for 1 more minute.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately!
Tips for the Perfect Sear
Use high heat – A hot skillet ensures a beautiful crust on the steak bites. Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cooking in batches prevents steaming and helps with caramelization. Pat steak dry before cooking – Excess moisture prevents a good sear.
Looking for a delicious side dish? Try this Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe for a protein-packed meal!
What Cut of Steak Is Best for Steak Bites?
The secret to tender, juicy steak bites starts with choosing the right cut of steak. Some cuts are naturally more tender, while others are budget-friendly and require a little extra care. Let’s explore the best options!
Tender vs. Budget-Friendly Cuts
Best Premium Cuts (Most Tender & Flavorful)
These cuts are naturally buttery soft, require minimal prep, and cook quickly:
- Filet Mignon – Incredibly tender with a mild flavor.
- Ribeye – Rich, marbled, and juicy with lots of flavor.
- New York Strip – Leaner than ribeye but still tender with great beefy taste.
Best Budget-Friendly Cuts (Great for Steak Bites)
If you’re looking for affordable but still delicious steak, these options work well:
- Sirloin – Leaner than ribeye but still flavorful and tender when cooked right.
- Flat Iron – A well-marbled, tender cut that’s more affordable.
- Flank or Skirt Steak – Slightly tougher but great when marinated before cooking.
Cuts to Avoid:
- Chuck Roast & Round Steak – These are tougher cuts that need slow cooking to become tender.
How to Cut Steak for Steak Bites
Slice Against the Grain – Cutting across the muscle fibers makes the bites more tender. Cut into 1-Inch Pieces – Ensures even cooking and the perfect bite-size texture. Trim Excess Fat – Too much fat can cause uneven cooking.
Pro Tip: Want another protein-packed dish? Try this Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipe for a simple and flavorful meal!
How to Make Smooth Garlic Butter
A rich, velvety garlic butter sauce is what makes Garlic Butter Steak Bites so irresistible. The key is using fresh ingredients and the right technique to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Butter
Unsalted Butter – Allows you to control the salt level and prevents the butter from becoming too salty. Fresh Garlic – Minced or grated for the best flavor. Avoid garlic powder, which lacks depth. Olive Oil – Helps balance the butter and prevents it from burning too quickly. Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Thyme) – Adds freshness and color to the sauce. Salt & Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor.
How to Get a Creamy, Lump-Free Texture
Use Room-Temperature Butter – Soft butter blends more smoothly than cold butter. Mince or Grate Garlic Finely – Avoid large chunks by using a garlic press or microplane grater. Cook on Low Heat – Melt butter gently over medium-low heat to avoid separation. Whisk Continuously – Stir or whisk the butter and garlic for a smooth, even consistency. Add Herbs Last – To preserve their freshness and aroma.
Pro Tip: Want another flavorful meal? Try this Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe for a savory dish packed with buttery goodness!
Why Are My Steak Bites Tough?
Nothing is more disappointing than biting into a chewy, tough piece of steak. If your Garlic Butter Steak Bites aren’t as tender and juicy as you’d like, here are some common mistakes and solutions to fix them.
Common Mistakes That Make Steak Chewy
Using the Wrong Cut – Lean cuts like round steak or chuck are naturally tougher and require slow cooking.
Solution: Choose tender cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon for the best results.
Cutting the Steak the Wrong Way – If you cut with the grain, the muscle fibers stay intact, making the steak chewy. Solution: Always slice against the grain to shorten the muscle fibers and create a more tender bite.
Overcooking the Steak – Cooking steak too long or on low heat makes it dry and tough. Solution: Sear steak bites over high heat for just 2-3 minutes per side to lock in juices.
Skipping the Resting Time – Cutting into steak immediately after cooking causes the juices to run out. Solution: Let steak rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Not Patting the Steak Dry Before Cooking – Too much moisture creates steam, preventing a good sear. Solution: Always pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
How to Keep Steak Tender & Juicy
Marinate for Extra Tenderness – A quick marinade with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, or balsamic vinegar helps break down tough fibers. Use a Hot Pan – A cast-iron skillet works best for achieving a crispy sear. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches to allow each piece to sear properly.
Pro Tip: Want another protein-packed dish? Try this Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe for a tender and flavorful seafood option!
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Steak Bites
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are rich, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect to pair with a variety of vegetable sides, low-carb options, and hearty comfort foods. Here are some of the best side dishes to complete your meal!
Vegetable Pairings
Garlic Butter Green Beans – A simple side that complements the garlic butter flavor. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy and caramelized, adding a nutty contrast. Sautéed Mushrooms – A classic steakhouse pairing that enhances the umami taste. Grilled Asparagus – Light and flavorful, balancing the richness of the steak.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Sides
Cauliflower Mash – A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Zucchini Noodles – Tossed in garlic butter for a light and tasty pairing. Cheesy Broccoli Bake – A comforting, keto-friendly side loaded with flavor.
Pro Tip: Looking for another low-carb meal option? Try this Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipe for a protein-packed dish!
Hearty Comfort Food Sides
Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Buttery and smooth, perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce. Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Adds crunch and pairs beautifully with steak bites. Mac and Cheese – A creamy, indulgent side that complements the steak’s richness. Buttery Dinner Rolls – Great for mopping up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Want a sweet treat to finish off your meal? Try this Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe for a light and refreshing dessert!
Pro Tips for Cooking the Best Steak Bites
Making perfectly seared, juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites comes down to using the right technique, seasoning, and cooking temperature. Follow these pro tips to take your steak bites to the next level!
The Right Cooking Temperature
Use High Heat – A hot skillet creates a flavorful sear and locks in the juices. Ideal Internal Temperature:
- Rare: 120-125°F (Cool red center)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (Warm red center, best for steak bites!)
- Medium: 140-145°F (Warm pink center)
- Well-Done: 160°F+ (Less juicy, firmer texture)
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep steak bites juicy and tender.
Seasoning & Marinades for Extra Flavor
Best Seasonings for Steak Bites:
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural steak flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Adds depth without overpowering.
- Paprika & Cayenne Pepper – Gives a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
Best Marinades for Tender Steak Bites:
- Soy Sauce + Worcestershire Sauce + Garlic – Classic steakhouse flavor.
- Olive Oil + Lemon Juice + Rosemary – Light and herbaceous.
- Balsamic Vinegar + Brown Sugar + Dijon Mustard – Sweet and tangy glaze.
How Long to Marinate?
- 30 minutes: Enhances flavor without breaking down the meat.
- 2-4 hours: Best for leaner cuts like sirloin or flank steak.
- Overnight: Not recommended for steak bites, as it can make the meat too soft.
Want another flavorful meal? Try this Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe for a buttery, juicy dish!
FAQs on Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Got questions about Garlic Butter Steak Bites? Here are answers to some of the most common cooking questions to help you make the perfect juicy, flavorful steak bites every time.
How Do You Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Cut steak into bite-sized pieces (1-inch cubes) and pat them dry. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor. Sear in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Melt butter with minced garlic in the pan, then toss the steak bites to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately! Want a full recipe with step-by-step instructions? Check out Part 1: How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
What Cut of Steak Is Best for Steak Bites?
Best Premium Cuts (Most Tender & Flavorful):
Filet Mignon – Extremely tender with a mild, buttery texture.
Ribeye – Rich and juicy, with great marbling for extra flavor.
New York Strip – Leaner than ribeye but still tender and beefy. Best Budget-Friendly Cuts:
Sirloin – Affordable and flavorful when cooked properly.
Flat Iron – Well-marbled and tender at a lower price point.
Flank or Skirt Steak – Chewier but great when marinated. Avoid: Tough cuts like chuck roast or round steak, which require slow cooking. Learn more in Part 2: What Cut of Steak Is Best for Steak Bites?
How to Make Smooth Garlic Butter?
Use room-temperature butter for the best texture. Finely mince or grate garlic to prevent large chunks. Melt butter over low heat to avoid separation. Whisk continuously for a silky, lump-free consistency. Add fresh herbs last to keep their flavor vibrant. Need a step-by-step guide? Check out Part 3: How to Make Smooth Garlic Butter!
Why Are My Steak Bites Tough?
Using the wrong cut – Lean cuts like round steak are naturally tough. Solution: Choose tender cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin. Cutting with the grain – This keeps the muscle fibers long and chewy. Solution: Always slice against the grain for a more tender bite. Overcooking the steak – Cooking too long or on low heat dries out the meat. Solution: Sear quickly over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Skipping the resting time – Cutting into steak too soon releases the juices. Solution: Let steak bites rest for 5 minutes before serving. Learn more in Part 4: Why Are My Steak Bites Tough?
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, perfect for a weeknight dinner or party appetizer. By using the right cut of steak, proper seasoning, and high-heat searing, you can create restaurant-quality steak bites at home.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these great options: Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe – A flavorful seafood dish packed with herbs. Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe – A savory, buttery chicken recipe. Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe – A refreshing dessert to balance your meal.
Enjoy cooking your Garlic Butter Steak Bites, and happy eating!