Name: Tender Steak Bites with Garlic Butter – A One-Pan Quick Meal!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

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Short Description

Tender steak bites with garlic butter offer an irresistible combination of rich, juicy beef and a flavorful, buttery garlic sauce. This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a restaurant-quality dish in just minutes. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Mouthwatering Flavor – The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory depth to the tender steak bites.
Versatile – Pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Protein-Packed – A high-protein meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Ingredients

Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon)
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Garlic cloves
Fresh parsley
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, ensuring even pieces for uniform cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Sear the Steak: Add the steak pieces in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned on all sides. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness.
Add Garlic and Butter: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the steak bites in the flavorful butter sauce.
Finish with Freshness: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the steak bites and drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh touch.
Serve Immediately: Transfer the steak bites to a serving plate and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra zing.
Herb Butter – Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Creamy Sauce – Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce.
Asian-Inspired – Toss with a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil for an umami-packed flavor profile.
Lemon Pepper – Use lemon zest and cracked pepper for a citrusy, peppery flavor boost.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2-4 servings

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or olive oil until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the steak chewy.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the steak may change upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I choose the best steak for this recipe?

Opt for tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon. These cuts provide a juicy texture and rich flavor.

Can I use frozen steak?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for even searing.

How do I prevent the steak from getting tough?

Avoid overcooking—sear at high heat for a short time and let the steak rest before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter with a plant-based alternative or more olive oil.

What sides go well with steak bites?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are all excellent choices.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch.

Should I marinate the steak beforehand?

Marinating isn’t necessary, but you can marinate it in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.

Can I cook these steak bites in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 400°F for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How do I know when my steak bites are done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus can be cooked alongside the steak for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Tender steak bites with garlic butter are the perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flavors. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, protein-packed meal with minimal effort!

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