Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These garlic butter steak bites deliver bold flavor and perfect tenderness in every bite. Using quality cuts like sirloin or strip steak, they're seared in a hot skillet to form a golden crust, then finished in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ideal for weeknight meals or impressing guests, these steak bites are versatile, quick to cook, and pair beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans. Avoid common mistakes like overcrowding the pan or under-seasoning to get the best results. Store leftovers easily and reheat for a satisfying meal anytime.

Published By Ioana
Updated on Sat, 14 Jun 2025 13:52:46 GMT
A plate of meat with garlic butter and mushrooms. Bookmark
A plate of meat with garlic butter and mushrooms. | ioanacooks.com

Garlic butter steak bites are a rich savory dish that turns any evening into something special without requiring a complicated process. With just a few ingredients and a hot pan you can enjoy deeply seared tender steak coated in silky garlic butter sauce. I often make these when I crave something quick that still feels indulgent and restaurant quality.

I first tried this method on a rainy weekend and it instantly became a favorite in my house. Now I make it when we want something cozy that still feels like a treat.

Ingredients

  • Rump steak: A flavorful and juicy cut that holds up well to high heat. Look for well-marbled pieces for the best texture and taste
  • Unsalted butter: Forms the rich base of the sauce. Choose a high-quality butter for a deeper finish
  • Fresh garlic: Provides bold aroma and warmth. Smash or mince for maximum flavor infusion
  • Olive oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds a light fruitiness to balance the butter
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the steak. Season well to enhance natural flavors
  • Garlic powder: Adds a second layer of garlic depth and brings balance when mixed with fresh garlic
  • Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of green color at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

Choose The Right Cut:
Pick a steak like rump or strip that is well-marbled and not too lean. Cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking and easier serving. Pat dry with paper towels to help with browning
Sear The Steak:
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a bit of oil to coat the surface. Place steak bites in a single layer without crowding. Let them sear undisturbed for two to three minutes to develop a crust then turn to brown on all sides
Add Butter And Garlic:
Lower the heat slightly and add butter to the pan. Once it starts to melt stir in minced garlic. Cook for one to two minutes while stirring constantly to prevent burning. Let the garlic gently infuse the butter while coating the steak pieces
Toss And Finish:
Sprinkle garlic powder salt and pepper over the steak. Toss everything together so each piece is coated in the butter garlic sauce. Cook for another minute until fully coated and heated through
Garnish And Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite side like mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce
A close up of a piece of meat with mushrooms and herbs on top. Bookmark
A close up of a piece of meat with mushrooms and herbs on top. | ioanacooks.com

I love using garlic confit sometimes instead of fresh garlic when I want a mellower note. It adds a deep roasted quality that feels like slow cooking without the time.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to keep the texture nice and avoid overcooking. You can also freeze them for up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge

Ingredient Substitutions

Use strip steak or sirloin if you cannot find rump. For a stronger garlic hit swap fresh garlic with garlic confit or roasted garlic. If parsley is unavailable use chopped chives or green onion for a fresh kick

Serving Suggestions

These steak bites pair well with garlic butter mashed potatoes or even crispy fries. Add green beans or a crisp salad for balance. They also shine when served with focaccia or toasted baguette to soak up the buttery sauce

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from steakhouse dishes that combine bold seasoning with simple preparation. The use of butter garlic and searing heat reflects classic techniques found in French bistro cooking

A close up of a piece of meat with garlic butter and mushrooms on top. Bookmark
A close up of a piece of meat with garlic butter and mushrooms on top. | ioanacooks.com

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What cut of steak works best?

Rump steak, flank, or New York strip are great choices due to their flavor and texture. A fattier cut like scotch fillet adds richness.

→ How do I get a proper sear?

Use a hot cast iron or stainless steel pan without overcrowding. Let the meat sit undisturbed to form a caramelized crust.

→ Can I prepare garlic butter myself?

Yes. Combine fresh minced garlic and parsley with quality butter. You can also use garlic confit for a deeper flavor.

→ What sides pair well?

Mashed potatoes, focaccia, sautéed green beans, or a light salad are excellent companions to these flavorful steak bites.

→ How should I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat juicy and tender.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Tender steak bites seared in garlic butter for rich flavor and a golden crust.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (approximately 4 servings of steak bites)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb Friendly, No Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Steak and Seasoning

Ingredient 01 1.5 lb rump steak or New York strip steak, cut into 1 inch pieces
Ingredient 02 1 tsp garlic powder
Ingredient 03 1 tsp salt
Ingredient 04 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient 05 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Garlic Butter Sauce

Ingredient 06 4 tbsp unsalted butter
Ingredient 07 5 cloves garlic, minced or use garlic confit (double or triple amount)
Ingredient 08 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Toss steak pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until evenly coated.

Step 02

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high until very hot to achieve a good sear.

Step 03

Add olive oil and half the steak pieces in a single layer. Sear for 2 minutes per side until crust forms. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 04

Reduce heat to medium and add butter and garlic to the pan. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 05

Return all steak bites to the pan and toss in garlic butter. Cook for 1 more minute and garnish with parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Use a meat thermometer to cook steak to medium rare for tenderness.
  2. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the steak.
  3. Let steak sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for even doneness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from butter

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 420
  • Total Fat: 31 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 3 grams
  • Protein Amount: 32 grams