Garlic Butter Steak Bites (Juicy, Tender & Ready in 20 Minutes)
If you love steak but don’t want to fire up the grill, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the perfect solution. They’re seared to golden perfection, packed with bold garlic flavor, and finished in rich, silky butter. Perfect for keto, low-carb, or quick weeknight dinners — and they cook in under 20 minutes!
🥩 Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
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1½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 tsp salt (or to taste)
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½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tsp fresh thyme (optional but recommended)
🔪 Prep Instructions
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Bring steak to room temperature
Remove steak from the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking. -
Pat dry thoroughly
Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is key for getting that golden crust. -
Cut into even cubes
Try to keep pieces uniform (about 1 inch) so they cook evenly. -
Season generously
Toss steak cubes with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
🍳 Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Pan
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Use a heavy skillet (cast iron works best).
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Heat over medium-high heat until very hot.
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Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
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Place steak cubes in a single layer.
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Do NOT overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if needed).
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Sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop a crust.
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Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes for medium-rare (adjust for preferred doneness).
Internal Temperature Guide:
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Rare: 120–125°F
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Medium-rare: 130–135°F
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Medium: 140–145°F
Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
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Reduce heat to medium.
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Add butter to the same skillet.
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Once melted, add minced garlic.
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Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do NOT brown the garlic).
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Stir in parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine
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Return steak bites to the skillet.
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Toss in garlic butter for 1 minute to coat.
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Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
🍽 Serving Suggestions (Keto Friendly)
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Over cauliflower mash
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With roasted broccoli or asparagus
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Inside lettuce wraps
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With garlic butter zucchini noodles
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As a protein-packed appetizer with toothpicks
🧈 Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Bites
✔ Use high heat for a great sear
✔ Don’t move the steak too soon
✔ Let the pan reheat between batches
✔ Rest meat 5 minutes before serving
✔ Fresh garlic > jarred garlic for best flavor
🥦 Storage & Reheating
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Store in airtight container up to 4 days in refrigerator
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Reheat gently in skillet over low heat
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Avoid microwave if possible (can make steak tough)
🧮 Nutrition (Approximate per serving – serves 4)
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Calories: 380
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 27g
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Carbs: 1g
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Net Carbs: 1g
🥩 Variations
Spicy Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning and extra red pepper flakes.
Lemon Garlic: Add 1 tsp fresh lemon juice at the end.
Herb Butter Upgrade: Add rosemary and oregano.
Creamy Option: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream for a silky sauce.