Garlic butter steak bites have become my absolute go-to for a quick yet incredibly satisfying dinner. I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was desperate for a restaurant-quality meal that I could whip up after a long workday. The aroma of sizzling steak and fragrant garlic filling my kitchen instantly made my evening better. These pan seared garlic butter steak bites are so tender and bursting with that rich, garlicky, buttery flavor that you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout. Let’s get these delicious steak bites cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites
You’re going to adore this garlic butter steak bites recipe for so many reasons:
- Restaurant-quality flavor that tastes like a treat.
- Incredibly tender and juicy steak bites every time.
- The perfect balance of rich garlic and savory butter.
- It’s a truly easy garlic butter steak bites recipe for weeknights.
- Quick cooking time means dinner is on the table fast.
- Versatile enough for an impressive appetizer or a hearty dinner.
- The garlicky butter sauce is absolutely divine.
- This garlic butter steak bites recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Gathering the right garlic butter steak bites ingredients is key to this amazing dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes – I like sirloin for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or filet mignon work too.
- 1 tsp salt – Essential for bringing out the steak’s natural flavor.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice bite.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The more garlic, the better, in my opinion!
- 3 tbsp butter – Unsalted butter is best so you can control the saltiness.
- 8 oz shell pasta – The little cups are perfect for holding all that creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This makes the sauce wonderfully rich and luscious.
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded – Always shred your own cheese; it melts so much smoother than pre-shredded.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional) – For an extra creamy and stable sauce, don’t skip this!
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and a hint of smoky flavor.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Pan Seared Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Follow these simple garlic butter steak bites cooking instructions for a truly sensational meal. I’ve found that paying attention to a few key details makes all the difference in achieving that perfect restaurant-quality result right in your own kitchen. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
First, make sure your steak cubes are patted completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Then, season them generously all over with the salt and pepper. Let the seasoned steak bites sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Sauce
While the steak rests, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for your pasta. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente – you don’t want mushy pasta! Before draining, reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water. In a separate saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream. Stir in the cream cheese (if using) until it’s smooth, then whisk in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. Keep the heat low and stir constantly until the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t let it boil, or it might separate!
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Now for the star of the show: the steak! Get a large skillet nice and hot over medium-high heat with a tiny splash of oil. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, sear the steak bites for about 1-2 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful, deep brown crust on all sides. Transfer the seared steak bites to a plate as you go. This searing process is essential for those incredible pan seared garlic butter steak bites.
Step 4: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same skillet you used for the steak. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, toss in your minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for just about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant – be careful not to burn it! Return the seared steak bites to the skillet. Toss them gently in the garlic butter until they are all beautifully coated. If you’re using paprika for garnish, sprinkle it over the steak now.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta shells are thoroughly coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Plate a generous portion of the creamy pasta next to a pile of those glorious garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Want to elevate your steak bites from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make these pan seared garlic butter steak bites truly shine. Here are my top tips:
- Always use a cast-iron skillet for searing; it holds heat like a dream and gives you that perfect crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets beautifully browned, not steamed.
- Freshly minced garlic is a must! Pre-minced jarred garlic just doesn’t have the same punch for these garlic butter steak bites.
What’s the secret to perfect pan seared garlic butter steak bites?
The real secret to perfect pan seared garlic butter steak bites lies in proper preparation and high heat. Patting the steak completely dry before searing is non-negotiable for achieving a gorgeous crust. High heat in a cast-iron skillet ensures the steak cooking is fast and develops that delicious Maillard reaction.
Can I make garlic butter steak bites ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the steak bites ahead of time, but I recommend searing them just before serving for the best texture. You can cube and season the steak up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before searing.
How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic butter steak bites seasoning?
A common pitfall with garlic butter steak bites seasoning is not letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking, leading to uneven doneness. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when making the sauce; it turns bitter fast! Sauté it briefly until fragrant, then add the steak.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites
These incredible garlic butter steak bites are so versatile, you can serve them in so many ways! They’re fantastic as an appetizer for a party, or as the main event for a weeknight dinner. Some of my favorite garlic butter steak bites side dishes include a crisp Caesar salad to cut through the richness, or some roasted asparagus for a pop of green. You could also serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or even some crusty bread to soak up any extra garlic butter goodness. For more dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of these delicious garlic butter steak bites:
- Calories: 720
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Leftover garlic butter steak bites are a treasure, but proper storage is key to enjoying them later. Once the steak and pasta have cooled completely, divide any leftovers into airtight containers. You can safely store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is an option; wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil, and they should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, the best way to reheat garlic butter steak bites is gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also reheat them in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but be mindful of the texture. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like these crispy parmesan chicken bites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Can I substitute the sirloin steak for another cut?
Absolutely! While sirloin is fantastic for these easy garlic butter steak bites, you can certainly use other cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or even filet mignon. Just adjust the searing time slightly based on the thickness and cut you choose to ensure perfect steak cooking. For other steak ideas, consider this steak frites recipe.
What are good side dishes for garlic butter steak bites for dinner?
These garlic butter steak bites for dinner are incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Crusty bread is also a must-have to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce! For a different take on a side, try these mashed potato cheese puffs.
How do I make sure my cheese sauce doesn’t get lumpy?
The trick to a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce for your garlic butter steak bites is to keep the heat low and shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Adding the cheese gradually and stirring constantly until just melted also prevents separation.
Can I make the garlic butter steak bites and the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the Alfredo sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if it thickens too much. However, I highly recommend searing the steak bites just before serving for the best texture and flavor. For another creamy pasta dish, try this shrimp alfredo recipe.
Variations of Garlic Butter Steak Bites You Can Try
While this garlic butter steak bites recipe is already a winner, don’t be afraid to get creative! Exploring garlic butter steak bites variations can lead to exciting new flavor profiles. For a keto-friendly option, skip the pasta and serve these flavorful steak bites alongside roasted cauliflower or a zucchini noodle alfredo. If you’re looking for a different cooking method, try air fryer garlic butter steak bites for an extra crispy exterior. You can also amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of heat, or a splash of white wine to the pan after searing the steak for a more complex sauce. These garlic butter steak bites variations ensure you’ll never get bored!
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Sensational Garlic Butter Steak Bites: 5 Tips
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with creamy Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells. This dish offers restaurant-quality flavor with simple preparation, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pat steak cubes dry and season with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature.
- Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
- Add cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring gently until smooth. Keep heat low to avoid curdling.
- In a hot skillet, sear steak cubes in batches with a splash of oil, 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat, melt butter in the same skillet, and sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Return steak to pan and toss in garlic butter until fully coated. Garnish with paprika if desired.
- Stir pasta into cheese sauce until fully coated. Plate next to steak bites and garnish with parsley.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Let the steak come to room temperature before searing to ensure even cooking.
- Always freshly shred cheese for smoother sauce and better meltability.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg