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This Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is a true kitchen gem—quick, flavorful, and versatile.
In just 20 minutes, you get tender, juicy steak infused with savory garlic, rich butter (or ghee), and fresh herbs, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive last-minute meals.
It’s naturally high in protein with 49g per serving, supporting muscle health and satiety, while also being low in carbs (just 2g) and nearly sugar-free, making it ideal for keto, paleo, and Whole30 diets.
The use of avocado oil adds a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats, and the option for ghee makes this recipe accessible for those who are dairy-sensitive.
What really makes this dish shine is its simplicity—minimal ingredients, one skillet, and almost no prep.
It’s also meal-prep friendly; cook a batch and reheat throughout the week for a protein-packed lunch or dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Perfect Browning & Even Heat Retention
This heavy-duty cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and that perfect sear on your steak bites. A true workhorse in the kitchen, it transitions from stovetop to oven with ease and lasts a lifetime with proper care.
2. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Tongs
Safe Flipping Without Losing Juices
These non-slip tongs offer precise control while flipping your steak bites without piercing the meat, helping to keep every piece juicy and tender. A must-have for any kind of sautéing or searing.
3. Microplane Premium Classic Garlic Mincer
Effortless and Fine Garlic Prep
This handy tool minces garlic into fine, even bits that blend perfectly into your butter sauce—ideal for maximizing flavor while saving time and effort.
4. Prepworks by Progressive Herb Scissors
Quick Herb Chopping with Zero Mess
With multiple blades, these scissors make quick work of chopping parsley or green onions for garnish. They keep prep clean and precise—especially helpful for frequent fresh herb use.
5. Glass Meal Prep Containers by Prep Naturals
Smart Storage for Leftovers & Meal Prep
Perfect for portioning and storing leftovers without flavor loss. They’re microwave and dishwasher safe, making your weekly meal planning efficient and eco-friendly.
Flavor-Packed Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet (preferably Cast Iron) – for searing the steak bites evenly.
- 1 Mixing Bowl – to season and toss the steak pieces.
- 1 Set of Tongs – for flipping and stirring steak without puncturing.
- 1 Garlic Press or Mincer – to finely mince fresh garlic.
- 1 Chopping Board & Knife – to cut steak into bite-sized pieces and chop parsley/green onion.
- 1 Measuring Spoon Set – to accurately measure seasonings and oils.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 pounds steak cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 6 garlic cloves finely minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Green onions sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Start by placing the cubed steak in a large bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly seasoned. This builds the flavor foundation for the dish.
- Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. Once the oil shimmers and is hot, spread the steak pieces in a single layer. Cook without overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed—to allow for proper browning.Sear the steak bites for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a rich, caramelized crust. Remove the browned steak from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and wipe out any excess moisture or residue from the skillet. Add the butter or ghee to the pan and let it melt gently. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and stir well to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the steak to warm through. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Serve: Immediately stir in the chopped parsley to add brightness and freshness. Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Choice of Steak: For the best tenderness, select cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon. These cuts sear beautifully and remain juicy when cooked quickly.
- Oil Alternatives: Avocado oil is recommended for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can substitute with light olive oil or grapeseed oil if needed.
- Batch Cooking Tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure the steak bites brown rather than steam. Cooking in batches produces a superior crust.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use ghee instead of butter to keep this recipe Whole30 and dairy-free compliant while maintaining rich flavor.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the steak.
Chef’s Secrets for Maximum Flavor
To make your garlic butter steak bites truly shine, the key lies in proper seasoning and cooking technique.
Start by seasoning the steak thoroughly with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavors.
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing — this ensures the steak pieces get a beautiful caramelized crust rather than steaming.
Use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, to maintain steady heat and even browning.
When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye as it cooks quickly; burnt garlic will introduce bitterness, so remove it from heat just as it becomes fragrant and golden.
Lastly, stirring in fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds a pop of color, balancing the richness of the butter and steak.
These small but crucial steps elevate a simple recipe to something restaurant-quality.
Creative Serving Suggestions To Try
Garlic butter steak bites are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides.
For a hearty meal, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted vegetables.
To keep things light and low-carb, plate the steak bites over a bed of cauliflower rice or sautéed greens like spinach or kale.
For a Mediterranean twist, add a side of warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping.
You can also toss the steak bites with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick dinner.
Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or extra green onions can add fresh, vibrant notes that complement the rich, buttery flavors perfectly.
Best Storage Practices For Leftovers
To keep your steak bites tasting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as they cool to room temperature.
Properly stored, they’ll remain good for up to three days.
When reheating, avoid using a microwave directly as it can dry out the meat; instead, gently warm the steak bites in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked steak bites in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes meal prepping convenient and helps reduce food waste.
Common Questions About This Recipe
1. Can I use other cuts of beef?
Absolutely! While tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye are ideal, you can use flank or skirt steak. Just slice them thinly against the grain to keep them tender.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter for ghee or a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative. Ghee works wonderfully here because it’s rich in flavor and has a high smoke point.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Adding red pepper flakes is a great way to introduce heat. You can also toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or use a spicy seasoning blend when seasoning the steak.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the steak by seasoning it in advance and storing it in the fridge for a few hours. However, it’s best to cook the steak bites fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
5. What should I serve with steak bites for a balanced meal?
Pair your steak bites with a mix of vegetables and a healthy carbohydrate, like roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, or a crisp salad, to create a well-rounded meal.
This recipe is inspired by allthehealthythings and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.