When you crave a quick, satisfying dinner, these 3-ingredient garlic butter steak bites are a surefire route to gratifying your hunger fast. With just a few minutes and minimal prep, you’ll have a savory, mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking: Each bite is ready in just about 10 minutes on the skillet.
- Minimal Ingredients: Just three ingredients required, yet rich in flavor.
- Versatile: Works great as a party appetizer or a main course.
- Easy Cleanup: Fewer dirty dishes to handle afterward.
Ingredients
- 1 to 1 1/4 pounds top sirloin, tri-tip, ribeye, or strip steak: Choose a cut that suits your preference for tenderness. Make sure to pat dry to ensure a nice sear.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances the beef flavor. Diamond Crystal kosher salt is recommended for sprinkling consistency.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Provides richness and helps achieve a flavorful sear. Can substitute with oil if required.
- 4 to 6 cloves garlic, chopped: Adds aromatic depth. Adjust quantity based on your garlic preference.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish, optional: A fresh herb finish that brightens the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cut and Season the Steak
Begin by cutting the steak into uniform 1 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to promote a brown, crisp exterior when seared. Season generously with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet and Add Butter
Warm a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium heat for about three minutes. Introduce 1 tablespoon of butter; when it begins to sizzle and turn brown, add the steak bites in a single layer, leaving space between so they sear instead of steam. Work in batches if needed due to skillet size.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Allow the steak bites to sear undisturbed for three minutes to develop a deep color. Flip them over using tongs and sear the opposite side for two to three additional minutes, aiming for medium doneness — an internal temperature of 140 to 145ºF. Transfer them onto a dish once done.
Step 4: Add Garlic to the Butter
Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Melt the remaining butter, then add the chopped garlic. Cook until the garlic loses its raw smell and becomes tender but not browned, approximately two to three minutes. Stir frequently to incorporate the flavorful bits from the pan.
Step 5: Toss the Steak in Garlic Butter
Remove the skillet from heat and return the steak bites to the pan. Toss to coat each piece in the garlic butter mixture thoroughly, enabling the added flavor to cling deliciously to the steaks. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately for optimum taste.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time. Always aim for even-sized pieces no matter what cut you choose to ensure uniform cooking.
Why is it important to pat the steak dry before cooking?
Drying the steak ensures maximum searing potential. If the surface of the steak is wet, it will steam rather than brown, which prevents you from achieving those signature crispy edges.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?
In a pinch, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add it during the last minute of steak searing to integrate it without burning.
