Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites are a quick and easy dish bursting with flavor. This mouthwatering recipe uses simple ingredients for a juicy, tender result. Whether you want a tasty dinner or a party appetizer, these steak bites fit the bill. Let’s dive in and transform your kitchen into a flavor powerhouse!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and thyme creates a robust flavor profile that elevates the steak bites beyond ordinary.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Versatile Dish: These steak bites can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even tossed in salads for added protein.
- Impressive Presentation: Serving the steak bites on a rustic wooden board or cast-iron skillet adds a charming touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
The main ingredient is sirloin steak. It is tender and flavorful. The cubes should be about one inch for even cooking. Butter adds richness, while garlic brings a strong, savory taste. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme enhance the dish with bright flavors.
Seasoning requirements
For seasoning, you only need salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use these to coat the steak cubes well. This simple seasoning brings out the meat's natural flavor. You can adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
Suggested garnishes
I suggest using fresh parsley to garnish the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. You can chop it finely and sprinkle it on top just before serving. This small touch makes the dish more appealing and adds a hint of herbal flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the steak
Start by patting the sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps the steak sear well. Next, season the cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Make sure to coat all sides for the best flavor.
Cooking the steak bites
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, then add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. If your skillet is small, cook in batches. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes. You want a nice brown crust, so avoid moving them too much. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm.
Making the garlic herb butter
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of the butter and let it melt. Then, stir in the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Cook this mix for 1-2 minutes. Watch the garlic closely; you don’t want it to brown. This will make it bitter. Return the steak bites to the skillet, coating them well in the garlic herb butter. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the perfect sear
To get a great sear, start with dry steak cubes. Pat them with paper towels. This helps the meat brown nicely. Season them well with salt and pepper before cooking. Heat your skillet until it shimmers. A hot pan is key for that golden crust. Add the steak in a single layer. If your skillet is small, cook in batches. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
How to select the right steak
For steak bites, I recommend using sirloin. It is tender and has great flavor. Look for cuts with some marbling. This adds juiciness and taste. When buying, check for bright red color and firm texture. Fresh steak will always give the best results in your dish.
Adjusting for preferred doneness
If you like your steak medium-rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. For medium, go for 140°F to 145°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook after you take it off the heat. If you want it well-done, cook it to 160°F. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for doneness.
Pro Tips
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Always pat your steak cubes dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a beautiful crust when searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steak bites in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the pan's temperature, preventing proper browning.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor significantly. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh offers a brighter taste.
- Rest Your Steak: Allow the steak bites to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender and juicy.
Variations
Alternative herbs for flavor
You can switch up the herbs! If you want a different taste, try using fresh basil or parsley instead of rosemary and thyme. These herbs add a light, fresh flavor. You can also try oregano or dill for a unique twist. Each herb brings its own taste, changing the dish's character.
Different cuts of steak to use
While sirloin works great, you can use other cuts too! Ribeye steak adds rich flavor due to its fat. Tenderloin steak is very soft and cooks quickly. You can even use flank or skirt steak for a more intense beefy taste. Just adjust cooking time based on the cut you choose.
Adding vegetables to the dish
Adding vegetables can make your meal even better! Try tossing in bell peppers or mushrooms with your steak bites. Zucchini or asparagus can also work well. You can sauté these veggies in the same pan for extra flavor. Just remember to cook them until they are tender but still crisp. This adds color and nutrition to your dish!
Storage Info
How to properly store leftovers
To store your leftover Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to keep the steak bites in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Reheating instructions
When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, take them out of the fridge. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the steak bites directly to the pan. You can add a little butter to keep them moist. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are warm. Stir them often to avoid burning.
Freezing options
If you want to freeze your steak bites, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply move the bag to the fridge overnight. Reheat them as mentioned for the best flavor.
FAQs
How long to cook steak bites for medium-rare?
To cook steak bites for medium-rare, aim for 2-3 minutes per side. This gives a nice brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer if you have one. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be about 130-135°F.
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it needs thawing first. Thaw the steak in the fridge overnight for best results. If you're in a rush, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to cook it. Once thawed, pat it dry and season as usual.
What can I serve with Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites pair well with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- A fresh green salad
- Rice or quinoa
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create your perfect meal!
In this post, we explored Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites. You learned about the key ingredients, how to prep and cook the steak, and make the flavorful garlic herb butter. I shared tips to help you achieve the perfect sear and suggested ways to switch up the recipe. Proper storage and reheating options keep your leftovers tasty. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these bites will impress. Enjoy making this dish and feel proud of your delicious creation.
