There’s nothing quite like a plate of juicy, tender steak bites coated in garlic butter and drizzled with a creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is a dream come true for steak lovers, offering a perfect balance of richness and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something fancy enough for a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes.
The magic of this dish lies in the perfect sear on the steak bites, achieved with a hot skillet and a mix of olive oil and butter. The garlic butter infusion adds a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the silky Parmesan cream sauce. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop. If you’re a fan of one-pan meals, this will quickly become a go-to favorite.
For those interested in exploring different cuts of beef, you might want to check out the Wikipedia page on steak to learn more about sirloin, ribeye, and filet mignon. And if you’re looking for more visual inspiration, Pinterest offers a variety of garlic butter steak bite recipes to help perfect your dish.
This recipe is designed to be as simple as possible while ensuring maximum flavor. It requires minimal prep, a handful of ingredients, and just one pan—ideal for those who want gourmet flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this irresistible dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love rich, buttery flavors and perfectly seared steak, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Juicy & Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter and a creamy Parmesan sauce creates an irresistible taste.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: No need to dine out—this dish delivers steakhouse-quality results.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or with crusty bread.
The garlic butter steak bites get their rich taste from a perfect sear, which locks in all the juices. The secret lies in using the right pan and high heat. If you’re new to cooking steak, you might find it helpful to read more about the best cooking techniques for steak on the Wikipedia page about cooking meat.
Want to see how others are making this dish? Check out Pinterest for one-pan steak dinner ideas and get inspired!
Ingredients Breakdown
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces – Sirloin is a great choice because it’s tender, flavorful, and affordable. However, you can also use ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip for a more luxurious bite. Learn more about different steak cuts on Wikipedia’s steak guide.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps create a beautiful sear while preventing sticking.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds a rich, velvety texture and complements the steak’s natural juices.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The heart of garlic butter steak bites, adding bold, aromatic flavor. Read more about its benefits on Wikipedia’s garlic page.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped – Adds earthy, herbaceous notes that enhance the dish’s depth.
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped – Infuses the dish with a subtle woodsy aroma.
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter – Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and complements the garlic butter steak.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, thick sauce. If you’re curious about its role in sauces, check out Wikipedia’s entry on heavy cream.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – The key to a bold, cheesy sauce. Using freshly grated Parmesan ensures the best texture. Need inspiration? Browse different ways to use Parmesan in recipes on Pinterest.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
- ¼ tsp black pepper – Enhances the savory flavors.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that ties the sauce together.
These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s not only rich and satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Ready to start cooking? Let’s go step by step!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Steak Bites
Before you start cooking, ensure your steak is properly prepped for the best results.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll cook.
- Season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural beef flavor.
For those interested in steak preparation, Wikipedia’s guide on cooking meat provides insight into techniques for the best texture and flavor.
Step 2: Searing the Steak
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Arrange the steak bites in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan! Overcrowding lowers the temperature and prevents a proper sear.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until browned and caramelized.
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
For more one-pan dinner ideas, check out Pinterest’s collection of easy skillet meals.
Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tbsp butter to the same skillet.
- Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp fresh thyme, and 1 tsp fresh rosemary.
- Cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let the garlic burn!
- Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter mixture.
The key to an amazing garlic butter steak lies in infusing the butter with fresh herbs. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and aroma.
Step 4: Preparing the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning.
- Stir until the sauce is smooth, thickened, and creamy.
Parmesan cheese is known for its sharp, umami-rich taste. For more ideas on using it in cooking, browse Pinterest’s Parmesan recipe inspirations.
Step 5: Serving the Steak Bites
- Drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the steak bites, or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
This method ensures the steak remains juicy while the sauce stays rich and flavorful. Now that your meal is ready, let’s explore some pro tips to perfect it!
Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Bites
To achieve restaurant-quality garlic butter steak bites, follow these expert tips:
1. Choosing the Best Cut of Steak
- Sirloin: Affordable, lean, and flavorful—perfect for a balance of tenderness and taste.
- Ribeye: Rich in marbling, making it the most juicy and flavorful option.
- Filet Mignon: The most tender but pricier than other cuts.
- New York Strip: A good middle-ground between tender and flavorful.
Want to know more about different steak cuts? Check out Wikipedia’s guide on steak for a deep dive into each type.
2. Achieving the Perfect Sear
- Use a cast iron skillet for an even crust.
- Pat the steak dry before cooking—moisture prevents browning.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a proper sear.
- Don’t move the steak too soon! Let each piece sear for at least 2-3 minutes per side before flipping.
For more tips on one-pan cooking, browse Pinterest’s easy skillet meal ideas.
3. Preventing Overcooking
- Use a meat thermometer:
- Medium-rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Well-done: 160°F
- Remove from heat slightly before reaching the desired temperature, as steak continues cooking from residual heat.
4. Enhancing the Flavor
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
- Finish with flaky sea salt after cooking for a gourmet touch.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
By following these pro tips, you’ll get the most flavorful and tender steak bites every single time! Ready to customize your dish? Let’s explore some variations.
Variations & Customizations
This garlic butter steak bites recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for creative twists to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Low-Carb/Keto Version
For a keto-friendly take on this dish:
- Swap heavy cream for cream cheese to thicken the sauce with fewer carbs.
- Serve with zucchini noodles, cauliflower mash, or roasted Brussels sprouts instead of pasta or potatoes.
- Use ghee instead of butter for a more intense buttery flavor.
Looking for more low-carb steak recipes? Check out Pinterest’s collection of keto steak meals.
2. Spicy Version
For those who love a kick of heat, try:
- Adding ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
- Drizzling with hot honey for a spicy-sweet contrast.
- Stirring in a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the Parmesan sauce.
3. Extra Cheesy Upgrade
Want to make the Parmesan cream sauce even richer?
- Blend in ½ cup shredded Gruyère, white cheddar, or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the plated dish for more cheesy goodness.
For more Parmesan-based recipes, check out Pinterest’s creamy Parmesan sauce ideas.
4. Dairy-Free Alternative
If you need a dairy-free version:
- Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
- Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.
5. Vegetarian Version
For a meat-free alternative:
- Substitute mushrooms, tofu, or cauliflower steaks for the beef.
- Use the same garlic butter and Parmesan sauce for a flavorful vegetarian dish.
With these customization options, you can tailor this recipe to fit any diet or taste preference while keeping all the rich, buttery goodness!
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Steak Bites
These garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan cream sauce pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you want something hearty, light, or low-carb, here are the best options to complete your meal:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and the perfect base for soaking up the rich Parmesan cream sauce. Try adding a touch of roasted garlic or sour cream for extra flavor.
2. Crusty Garlic Bread
A slice of warm, crispy bread is ideal for scooping up every last drop of the sauce. You can make homemade garlic bread by toasting baguette slices with butter, garlic, and parsley.
For more ideas, check out Pinterest’s garlic bread recipes.
3. Pasta or Rice
- Buttery noodles: Toss pasta with a bit of olive oil, butter, and Parmesan for a simple yet delicious base.
- Garlic butter rice: A flavorful side that complements the garlicky steak bites.
- Creamy risotto: A more indulgent pairing with rich, cheesy flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables
For a lighter option, serve your steak bites with roasted vegetables, such as:
- Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until crisp.
- Brussels sprouts – Caramelized with balsamic glaze.
- Green beans – Sautéed in garlic butter for extra flavor.
5. Low-Carb Alternatives
If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, try:
- Cauliflower mash – A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Zucchini noodles – Light, fresh, and perfect with the Parmesan sauce.
- Spaghetti squash – A great substitute for pasta with a mild sweetness.
Need more inspiration? Browse Pinterest’s low-carb side dish ideas.
With these side dish options, you can create a well-balanced meal that highlights the rich, buttery flavors of the steak bites!
Storage & Reheating Tips
These garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan cream sauce taste just as delicious the next day if stored and reheated properly. Follow these simple tips to keep them juicy and flavorful.
1. How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store steak bites and Parmesan sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the steak without the sauce for up to 2 months. The creamy sauce doesn’t freeze well as it may separate upon thawing.
For more on proper storage techniques, check out Wikipedia’s guide on food storage.
2. Best Ways to Reheat Steak Bites
Reheating steak the wrong way can make it tough and dry. Use these methods for the best results:
Stovetop (Best Method)
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Sauté the steak bites for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, just until warmed through.
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Place steak bites on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
- Heat for 10-12 minutes until warm.
Microwave (Not Recommended for Steak)
- If you must use a microwave, heat in short 20-second bursts to avoid overcooking.
- Add a splash of beef broth or butter to keep them moist.
3. Reheating Parmesan Cream Sauce
Since cream-based sauces can thicken in the fridge, follow these steps:
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to restore the original consistency.
- Microwave: Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each burst.
For more creamy sauce tips, check out Pinterest’s collection of Parmesan sauce recipes.
By following these storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy garlic butter steak bites that taste just as amazing as when freshly made!
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan cream sauce.
1. Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes! While sirloin is a great choice for its balance of tenderness and affordability, you can also use:
- Ribeye – Rich in marbling, making it extra juicy.
- Filet Mignon – Extremely tender, but more expensive.
- New York Strip – Leaner than ribeye but still flavorful.
For a detailed guide on different steak cuts, check out Wikipedia’s page on steak.
2. Can I make the Parmesan cream sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or milk and stir well to bring back the original texture.
3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. If you prefer a thicker consistency, add extra Parmesan cheese or a cornstarch slurry (½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
4. What’s the best way to reheat steak bites?
The stovetop method is best:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil.
- Sauté the steak bites for 1-2 minutes, just until warm.
Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the steak. For more steak-cooking tips, check out Pinterest’s easy steak recipes.
5. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air frying is a great alternative for achieving a crispy exterior:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the steak bites with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
For more air fryer steak recipes, browse Pinterest’s collection.
By following these FAQs, you’ll get the best results every time you make these irresistible steak bites!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce are the perfect combination of tender, juicy steak and rich, creamy sauce. Seared to perfection in a garlic-infused butter, the steak bites are packed with flavor and smothered in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce that takes this dish to the next level.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this one-pan recipe is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop!
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Pinterest’s one-pan dinner ideas to explore other skillet meals!
Ingredients
For the steak bites:
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
For the Parmesan cream sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Season the steak bites with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in the garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
For the Parmesan cream sauce, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Serve the garlic butter steak bites with the Parmesan cream sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Best Steak Options: Sirloin, ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip work best for tender, flavorful steak bites.
- Perfect Sear Tip: Pat the steak dry before cooking and use a hot skillet to lock in the juices.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or broth; if too thin, stir in extra Parmesan.
- Storage Tip: Store leftover steak and sauce separately. Reheat sauce gently on the stovetop with a bit of milk or cream.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
