Garlic Butter Steak Bites hold a special place in my heart, often reminding me of cozy family dinners when the aroma of sizzling steak would fill the air. I remember my dad whipping up these little bites of heaven on special occasions, and we’d all gather around the table, eager to dig in. They were quick to prepare but packed with flavor, making them the perfect treat for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings.

Now, as a home cook myself, I cherish this recipe for its simplicity and rich taste. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether it's a chilly evening or a lively family celebration. The combination of garlic and butter is irresistible, and each bite is tender and succulent. Trust me when I say, once you try these Garlic Butter Steak Bites, you'll want to keep them in your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love "Garlic Butter Steak Bites"

Quick prep and cook time, ready in just 20 minutes!
Minimal ingredients make it easy to whip up on a busy night.
Family-friendly and loved by both kids and adults!
Perfectly tender and packed with rich garlic butter flavor.
Great for meal prep and can be easily stored for leftovers.
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides or salads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
1 medium zucchini, cut into half-moons
3 tablespoons butter (I love using unsalted butter for more control over saltiness)
3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but jarred works in a pinch)
1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to for flavor)
½ teaspoon salt (feel free to adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked adds a lovely kick)
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (adds a pop of color and freshness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Skillet

Grab a large skillet and place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
Let the oil heat up until it shimmers, but make sure it doesn’t smoke!

Season the Steak

While the skillet is heating, take your 1 lb of steak and place it in a bowl.
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper evenly over the steak cubes.
Toss the steak gently to ensure each piece is well seasoned. You want those flavors to penetrate!

Cook the Steak

Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, or they won’t brown nicely!
Let the steak cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes or until a beautiful brown crust forms on the bottom.
Using tongs, flip the steak cubes to brown the other side for another 2-3 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.

Add Garlic and Butter

Once the steak is browned to your liking, lower the heat a touch.
Add in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and 3 tablespoons of butter right into the skillet.
Stir gently to coat the steak in the melted butter and garlic mixture, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!

Incorporate Zucchini

Now, it’s time to add your prepared zucchini half-moons to the skillet.
Stir everything together and let the zucchini cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning if needed — a pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference!

Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat.
If using, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a lovely presentation.
Serve warm right from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish, and watch everyone dig in with smiles!

Variations

Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a tangy twist.
Incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
Swap the butter for olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Try marinating the steak in your favorite seasoning blend for extra flavor.
For a lighter option, serve over a bed of greens instead of alongside starches.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites warm, straight from the skillet for that sizzling effect! They pair beautifully with a crisp salad, rice, or roasted potatoes. Don't forget to drizzle some of that rich garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Helpful Notes

For a richer flavor, let the steak marinate in your favorite seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use a non-stick skillet to help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
For a nutty twist, add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Omit the zucchini for a pure steak experience or swap it for asparagus for a different taste.
This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Yes, you can freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites! Just let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet.

What can I use instead of butter?

If you're looking for a butter substitute, olive oil is a great choice! You can also use coconut oil for a different flavor or even a dairy-free butter alternative if you're avoiding dairy.

How do I achieve the perfect steak doneness?

The key to perfect steak doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F, medium is around 145°F, and medium-well is about 150°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook a little after you remove it from the heat! For more information on steak temperatures, check out this guide to steak doneness.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! Garlic Butter Steak Bites are not just a meal; they're a way to bring everyone together and create memories around the table. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these little bites of joy are sure to impress. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and see the smiles on your loved ones' faces. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the journey, so have fun with it! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with delicious aromas!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender pieces of steak cooked with garlic and butter for a rich flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
1 medium zucchini, cut into half-moons
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add steak cubes and season with salt and pepper.
Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
Add minced garlic and butter to the skillet.
Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Add zucchini and cook until tender.
Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet for even cooking.
Adjust cooking time based on desired steak doneness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Garlic Butter Steak Bites, steak recipe, quick dinner