There’s something utterly magical about a sizzling skillet and the aroma of garlic wafting through the air—it’s like a culinary symphony that promises comfort and indulgence. Picture this:
tender steak bites, bathed in buttery goodness, with each morsel exploding with flavor like fireworks on a summer night. Oh, and remember the time when butter was demonized?
Well, it’s back with a vengeance, proving once again that life’s too short to skip the good stuff!
Steps
- Begin by cutting the steak into 1 1/2-inch pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season the pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes, then melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the pan. Once the butter is sizzling, place the steak pieces in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each piece.
- Sear the steak bites without moving them for about 3 minutes, then flip them over. Continue searing until they are browned and reach medium doneness, which should take another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the steak bites from the pan.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the chopped garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic until it is cooked through and fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Take the pan off the heat and return the steak bites to the pan, tossing them to coat evenly in the garlic butter. Transfer to a serving dish and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving immediately.
Ingredients
- 1 to 1 1/4 pounds top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 to 6 cloves fresh garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
FAQ
- What type of steak is best for making garlic butter steak bites?
- The best cuts of steak for garlic butter steak bites include top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak. Top sirloin is generally more affordable and offers a good balance of tenderness and flavor. Tri-tip is often more marbled and tender, while ribeye provides a rich and fatty option. Avoid cuts labeled as “stew meat” since they tend to be tougher and require longer cooking times.
- How much garlic should I use in this recipe?
- It’s recommended to use four large cloves of garlic or more if they are small. Fresh garlic is essential for achieving the best flavor, as it’s one of the three main ingredients in the dish.
- How long does it take to prepare and cook these steak bites?
- If the garlic is chopped and the steak is cut in advance, the steak bites can be cooked and ready to serve in about 10 minutes.
- Can I add other flavors to the garlic butter steak bites?
- Yes, you can customize the dish by adding ingredients like Dijon mustard for tanginess, a splash of dry red wine for depth of flavor, or a sprinkle of rosemary for an herbaceous touch.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic butter steak bites?
- A balanced meal can be achieved by pairing the steak bites with a starchy side like crispy potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered noodles, along with a vegetable side such as air-fried or steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts. For convenience, you can also microwave a bag of frozen peas or mixed vegetables.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic rather than jarred for a more pronounced flavor, as garlic is one of the main ingredients in this dish.
- Choose the right cut of steak for optimal tenderness and flavor. Top sirloin and tri-tip are cost-effective choices, while ribeye offers a richer taste due to its higher fat content.
- Ensure the steak bites are seared without overcrowding the pan to achieve a proper crust and even cooking.
- Enhance the dish with additional flavors like a touch of Dijon mustard for tanginess, a splash of red wine for depth, or a sprinkle of rosemary for a woodsy note.
Equipment
- Stainless Steel or Cast Iron Skillet (12-inch) – Essential for searing the steak bites properly.
- Instant-Read Thermometer – Useful for checking the doneness of the steak.
- Wooden Spatula – Helps in scraping the browned bits from the pan without damaging it.
- Tongs – For flipping the steak bites easily and safely.
