Ready in under 10 minutes, with no marinating necessary, these sizzling and tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites will become an instant favorite! Pan fry, air fry or oven bake.
Few culinary experiences can rival the sheer pleasure of biting into a perfectly cooked piece of steak. That glorious balance of tender meat, savory umami, and rich buttery goodness can transport us to a realm of pure culinary delight.
Today, I'm delighted to share a recipe that embodies this essence: Garlic Butter Steak Bites. This dish is all about simplicity, speed, and flavor.
Choose a cut of beef that suits your preference: flank, top sirloin, ribeye, NY strip, or chuck are all excellent options.
Cut it into cubes, add the simple Worcestershire, garlic, butter marinade and then cook them to tender perfection. Ready in under 10 minutes.
Enjoy your garlic butter steak bites as a protein-packed snack, served up as appetizers with dipping sauces, or enjoyed with side dishes as a main meal.
We've provided three cooking methods below: pan frying, oven baking, or air frying, making it adaptable to your kitchen setup and taste preferences.
We love serving up these steak bites with a scoop of Mashed Potatoes, a side of Arkansas Green Beans with Bacon and a drizzle of Horseradish Aioli or Arby's Horsey Sauce (Copycat).
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a true gem. Simple yet indulgent, quick yet full of flavor, they have earned a special place in my heart and kitchen.
Whether you're craving a savory appetizer, a quick weeknight dinner, or a dish to impress your guests, these steak bites will rise to the occasion, leaving everyone wanting more.
Jump to:
What is the Best Steak to use for Steak Bites?
The best steak types for making steak bites are those that are both flavorful and tender when cooked quickly. Here are some excellent choices:
- Ribeye Steak: Ribeye is known for its marbling, which means it has a good amount of fat running through the meat. This fat adds tremendous flavor and juiciness to each bite. It's one of the top choices for steak bites.
- Filet Mignon: Filet mignon is exceptionally tender but has less marbling than ribeye. If you prefer a leaner option, this could be the way to go. The tenderness will make each bite melt in your mouth.
- Top Sirloin Steak: Top sirloin is a more budget-friendly option, but it still provides good flavor and tenderness. It's a great choice if you want to make a larger batch of steak bites without breaking the bank.
- Flank Steak: Flank steak has a robust beefy flavor and is typically leaner. It's a bit less tender than some other cuts but can be delicious when marinated and cooked quickly to medium-rare or medium.
- New York Strip Steak: New York strip is a versatile choice. It's well-marbled, so it's flavorful, and it's also quite tender. It's a great middle-ground option for steak bites.
- Skirt Steak: Skirt steak is similar to flank steak in terms of flavor and texture. It's best when marinated and cooked to medium-rare. It's often used in dishes like fajitas, but it works well for steak bites too.
Ultimately, the best steak for steak bites depends on your personal preferences and budget. Any of the above options can be delicious when prepared correctly. Remember that marinating the steak or using a flavorful marinade can enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat, regardless of the cut you choose.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These steak bites come together in a matter of minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Worcestershire sauce infuses each bite with a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing.
- Versatile: You can use various cuts of steak like flank, top sirloin, ribeye, NY strip, or chuck, depending on your preference and what's available.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or a game night with friends, these steak bites are a crowd-pleaser that disappears almost as quickly as you can cook them.
- Customizable: Add your unique twist by incorporating herbs, spices, or marinades to match your taste.
Ingredients
You only need simple pantry ingredients for this recipe!
- Steak: Choose a cut that suits your preference. Flank, top sirloin, ribeye, NY strip, or chuck are all excellent options. The key is to ensure it's well-marbled for that luscious texture.
- Olive Oil: Provides a healthy fat base for cooking and adds depth to the flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Infuses richness and indulgence into the steak bites.
- Worcestershire Sauce (or Soy Sauce): Adds a depth of savory flavor with a hint of umami. Soy sauce makes for a suitable alternative if you prefer.
- Garlic Powder (or Minced Garlic): Garlic is the star here, lending its aromatic essence. Feel free to use fresh minced garlic for an extra punch, but it can sometimes burn a little, so I prefer powdered.
- Ground Cumin (optional): A subtle spice that complements the steak's robustness. For a twist, experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or chili powder.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the steak's natural flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A final touch of freshness and color as a garnish.
See the recipe card for quantities and method.
How to make
Follow these step-by-step instructions, then scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes, and remove any excess fat. Add the steak pieces to a bowl or ziplock bag, along with the Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat the steak evenly in the marinade.
Method 1: Pan Fry
Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter and let it melt and sizzle.
Carefully add the seasoned steak pieces to the hot skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed.
Sear the steak bites on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.
Method 2: Oven Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the seasoned steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased oven-safe dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Method 3: Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping the steak bites halfway through, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Garlic Butter Steak Bites as an appetizer with toothpicks for a stylish and flavorful start to your meal. Try serving with dipping sauces such as Arby's Sauce, Creamy Dill Mustard Sauce, or Horseradish Aioli.
- Create a delightful steak bite bowl by pairing them with your choice of salad greens and drizzling with a zesty garlic vinaigrette.
- Elevate your steak bites with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a mound of garlic-infused mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.
- For a family-style dinner, arrange the steak bites on a platter with some roasted vegetables, allowing everyone to dig in and savor the deliciousness.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for those who crave some heat.
- Herb-Infused: Marinate the steak with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant twist.
- Asian Fusion: Substitute Worcestershire sauce with teriyaki or hoisin sauce for an Asian-inspired flair.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms alongside the steak for an earthy, umami-rich accompaniment.
Storage
While these steak bites are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a touch of butter to retain their tenderness.
More Beef Recipes
Recipe Tips
- Perfect Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. A sizzling pan will create a beautiful sear, locking in the steak's juices and flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Resist the temptation to cram all the steak bites into the skillet at once. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook them in batches, if necessary.
- Resting Time: Let the cooked steak bites rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains succulent.
- Marinade Magic: For a deeper flavor infusion, marinate the steak bites for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, in the refrigerator. This step is ideal if you have the time to plan ahead.
FAQs
While it's best to use thawed steak for even cooking, you can use frozen steak if needed. Just be aware that it may release more moisture during cooking, which can affect the sear.
Classic choices include mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or a medley of roasted vegetables. Experiment with your favorites to find your perfect pairing.
Certainly! After pan frying the steak, deglaze the pan with some red wine or beef broth, add a touch of cream or butter, and reduce for a delectable sauce to drizzle over the steak bites.
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📖 Recipe
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak (flank, top sirloin, ribeye, NY strip, chuck etc…) 450g
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin optional
- ¼ teaspoon each salt and freshly ground black pepper or to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Method 1: Pan Fry
- Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes, and remove any excess fat. Add the steak pieces to a bowl or ziplock bag, along with the Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat the steak evenly in the marinade.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter and let it melt and sizzle.
- Carefully add the seasoned steak pieces to the hot skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed.
- Sear the steak bites on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 3-4 minutes for well done, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness.
Method 2: Oven Bake
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes, and remove any excess fat. Add the steak pieces to a bowl or ziplock bag, along with the Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat the steak evenly in the marinade.
- Place the seasoned steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased oven-safe dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Method 3: Air Fryer
- Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes, and remove any excess fat. Add the steak pieces to a bowl or ziplock bag, along with the oil, butter, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat the steak evenly in the marinade.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping the steak bites halfway through, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Notes
- Perfect Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. A sizzling pan will create a beautiful sear, locking in the steak's juices and flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Resist the temptation to cram all the steak bites into the skillet at once. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook them in batches, if necessary.
- Resting Time: Let the cooked steak bites rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains succulent.
- Marinade Magic: For a deeper flavor infusion, marinate the steak bites for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, in the refrigerator. This step is ideal if you have the time to plan ahead.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
Tayler
These steak bites are so incredibly flavorful and tender! And I loved how easy they were to make!
Andrea
These easy to make, great flavored, garlic butter steak bites are perfect on a busy weeknight. Served with veggies and mashed potato!
Vicky
These Steak Bites are a meat lovers dream come true! The beef is perfectly cooked and delicious thanks to the garlic butter. This recipe is a winner that I'll be making again and again.
Angela
My new favorite way to make steak! This was so delicious and easy too! Definitely a new favorite recipe in my house.