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As I stood at the stove, the tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in butter brought back memories of cozy dinners shared with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Sauce—a quick dinner option that feels like a gourmet restaurant meal. This dish marries juicy, golden-seared steak with a luxuriously smooth sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing unexpected guests. Even better, it lends itself beautifully to customization—swap steak for chicken or shrimp and cater to various taste preferences. In under 30 minutes, you can delight your family with a comforting, flavor-packed meal that won’t weigh you down. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game?
Why will you crave Garlic Butter Steak?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce elevates the taste of tender steak bites to something truly extraordinary.
Quick to Prepare: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet meal, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
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Endless Versatility: Looking to mix things up? You can easily swap steak for chicken or shrimp, catering to different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Healthy Indulgence: Enjoy a low-calorie, keto-friendly meal that satisfies your cravings without the guilt. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress family and friends alike with this dish that boasts restaurant-quality taste, perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. If you love comfort food, check out my Skillet Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another flavor-packed option!
Garlic Butter Steak Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- Steak (sirloin or ribeye, 1 lb) – Tender cuts yield juicy bites; swap with chicken or shrimp for a delightful twist.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Essential for searing; can be replaced with butter for richer flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance all flavors.
For the Garlic Butter
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch—don’t settle for powdered!
- Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds decadent richness; use salted if that’s all you have.
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – The creamy base of the sauce; light cream can be used for a lower-calorie option, but it may alter thickness.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, freshly grated) – Freshly grated cheese melts better, giving your sauce the perfect texture.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Offers a touch of heat; adjust or omit for a milder dish.
For Garnish
- Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of freshness; can be substituted with basil or chives for a different flavor profile.
Now that you have your Garlic Butter Steak ingredients lined up, let’s dive into making this delectable dish that’s sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Begin by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides, enhancing the flavor of your Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Let the seasoned meat sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare your cooking space and gather other ingredients to ensure all flavors can meld nicely.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, golden-brown crust. This step is key to achieving tender, flavorful steak bites. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Allow the butter to melt and foam for about 1-2 minutes, then add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to let it brown. Once fragrant, return the seared steak bites to the pan and gently toss them in the garlic butter, allowing each piece to be coated.
Step 4: Prepare Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add another clove of minced garlic, sautéing for 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—avoid boiling. Gradually stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes silky and smooth, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
To finish, arrange the Garlic Butter Steak Bites on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the steak or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful contrast of warm steak and velvety sauce!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
As you savor the mouthwatering delight of juicy steak bites enveloped in a creamy sauce, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich texture of buttery mashed potatoes creates a comforting balance with the steak’s flavors, soaking up the luxurious sauce beautifully.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus with a hint of garlic complements the steak, adding a fresh crunch to each bite. The earthy notes enhance the overall meal.
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Simple Arugula Salad: A bright, peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the steak bites, refreshing your palate. It’s a great way to add some freshness to your plate.
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Butter-Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts bring a delightful contrast to the tender steak. Tossing them in a touch of butter and garlic makes them irresistible.
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Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash brings a silky texture and flavor reminiscent of traditional mashed potatoes, perfectly complementing the garlic butter steak.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances your dining experience with its deep flavors, making each bite of steak even more indulgent.
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Chocolate Mousse: Cap off your meal with a decadent chocolate mousse. Its silky richness pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter steak, leaving you and your guests utterly satisfied.
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Fresh Fruit Sorbet: For a lighter dessert, try a refreshing fruit sorbet. Its fruity brightness offers a delightful contrast to the meal’s savory richness.
Garlic Butter Steak Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Garlic Butter Steak with these delightful variations that will enhance flavors and suit your tastes!
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Chicken Alternative: Replace steak with chicken breast for a lighter but just as flavorful option. Sear until golden brown and enjoy the same rich sauce.
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Shrimp Twist: Swap steak for shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and tender. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with seafood.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a vegan-friendly Alfredo version, while still keeping it delicious and comforting.
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Hearty Flavor Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon to the garlic butter for an earthy depth and a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish to new heights.
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Gluten-Free Side: Serve your steak bites with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles; each option offers a unique texture while keeping the meal light.
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Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat to your liking by increasing the red pepper flakes, or doughnut sliced jalapeños for a fresh, zesty flair.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Try rosemary or thyme instead of parsley to scent the dish with aromatic notes that complement the richness of the steak.
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Creamy Spinach Addition: Incorporate fresh spinach into the cream sauce until wilted to add nutrition and a beautiful color, making it a heartier, wholesome meal.
If you’re in the mood for more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on my Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies for a sweet treat after your savory feast!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Steak
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy the rich flavors of your Garlic Butter Steak while it’s still fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steak bites (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the creamy sauce consistency. Avoid overheating to keep the steak tender.
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Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Steak
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Choose Quality Cuts: Opt for sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and juiciness. Avoid tougher cuts as they’ll yield less tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
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Pat Dry for Searing: Make sure to pat the steak cubes dry before seasoning. This step promotes a better sear, giving you that beautiful golden-brown crust.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing steak, avoid crowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and helps develop that all-important crust without steaming the meat.
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Control the Heat: Keep the heat at medium when cooking garlic to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your delicious sauce.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting quality.
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Adjust for Leftovers: If reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its silky texture. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Steak even the next day!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the steak bites by seasoning and cutting them up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. The Parmesan cream sauce can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just reheat gently, adding a splash of cream to maintain its silky texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, sear the steak bites as directed, toss them in the garlic butter, and serve with the reheated sauce for a quick, restaurant-quality meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. These cuts not only offer great flavor but also yield juicy and flavorful steak bites. If you’re in the mood for something different, swapping the steak for chicken breast or shrimp also brings delightful variations to this dish.
What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Butter Steak?
Very! To keep your Garlic Butter Steak Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember, the flavors are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them within this timeframe.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Of course! For longer storage, freeze the steak bites without the sauce in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to preserve the tender texture.
What should I do if my Parmesan sauce turns clumpy?
If you find your sauce isn’t as smooth as you’d like, no worries! This can happen if pre-shredded cheese is used or if it wasn’t well-whisked. To fix this, add a splash of warm cream while stirring it over low heat until the sauce smooths out, ensuring you mix continuously. Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly and creates that lovely creamy consistency you crave.
Are there any dietary considerations for Garlic Butter Steak?
Certainly! If you’re considering different dietary needs, keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy, which may not be suitable for lactose intolerant individuals. You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make it lactose-free. For those on keto diets, this dish is perfect as it aligns with low-carb eating while providing healthy fats that keep you satisfied!
Can I use different ingredients in the Garlic Butter Steak recipe?
Yes, the more the merrier! Feel free to customize it! Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, add crispy bacon for an additional crunch, or adjust the amount of red pepper flakes if you’re looking for something spicier.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak cubes for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Return the seared steak bites and toss them in the garlic butter.
- In a saucepan, melt remaining butter and add a clove of minced garlic. Pour in heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites on a platter, drizzle with creamy Parmesan sauce, and garnish with parsley.
