Description
Garlic Butter Steak Bites are succulent, juicy pieces of sirloin steak seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs and a bright touch of lemon. This quick and easy stovetop recipe delivers bold flavor in just 25 minutes and makes a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Choose the Right Cut: Select sirloin steak for a balance of tenderness and flavor. Ribeye or tenderloin can be used for an even more tender option.
- Cut the Steak: Slice the steak into 1-inch bite-sized pieces to ensure even and quick cooking.
- Season the Steak: Place steak pieces in a large bowl, then generously season with salt and pepper ensuring all pieces are well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat the Pan: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, preparing to sear the steak.
- Sear the Steak: Add the steak bites to the pan in a single layer and sear without moving for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip and Cook: Turn the steak bites over and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium-rare; adjust time if you prefer different doneness.
- Remove and Rest: Transfer the cooked steak bites to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while preparing the sauce.
- Melt the Butter: Reduce the skillet heat to medium, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and scrape up the browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme and rosemary, cooking for 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and stir to combine, letting it simmer gently for about a minute to meld flavors.
- Return the Steak: Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them to coat thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Heat Through: Allow the steak bites to simmer in the sauce for an additional minute to absorb the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the sauce and steak, adding more salt or pepper if needed to balance the taste.
- Plate the Dish: Transfer the steak bites to a serving platter, letting the flavorful sauce pool around them.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Immediately: Serve hot as a delicious appetizer or alongside sides for a main course.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, let the steak rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for the most vibrant flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté.
- Ribeye or tenderloin can be substituted for sirloin to suit your preferred steak texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the steak to ensure proper browning; cook in batches if necessary.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
