Ever crave a restaurant-quality dinner but dread the long prep time? I’ve been there. That’s why I love this 15-minute recipe—it delivers bold flavors without the hassle. Tender sirloin gets a crispy sear, then gets tossed in a rich garlic-shallot butter sauce. The result? A dish that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly.
Perfect for busy weeknights, these bites pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, polenta, or even a simple salad. Tested by Gaby Dalkin and Coco Morante, this recipe balances texture and taste—crispy edges with juicy centers. Plus, it’s toddler-approved, making it a win for family dinners.
Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Skip the takeout—this recipe delivers big flavor fast. With just 10 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish without the hassle. No marinating needed, and cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one skillet.
These steak bites are a crowd-pleaser. The Worcestershire sauce and fresh herbs add depth, while the crispy sear locks in juiciness. Perfect for date nights or picky eaters, they’re a guaranteed hit.
Meal prep is easy too. Store leftovers for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. At 470 calories per serving, they’re indulgent but balanced. As Gaby says, they’re “addictive,” and Coco calls them “impressively delicious.”
Why spend $30 at a steakhouse when you can make this quick dinner at home? Tender, flavorful, and family-friendly—it’s a win every time.
Ingredients for Succulent Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Quality ingredients make all the difference in this quick recipe. Fresh, simple components ensure rich flavor and tender texture. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Exact Measurements
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sirloin steak | 2 lbs (cubed) |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Garlic cloves | 6 (minced) |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tsp (chopped) |
Ingredient Substitutions and Tips
Steak cuts: Sirloin is budget-friendly, but ribeye or tri-tip work for extra richness. Avoid stew meat—it won’t sear well.
Butter options: Try Westgold garlic-parsley butter for added flavor. For dairy-free, use ghee.
Allergy swaps: Coconut aminos replace Worcestershire for gluten-free diets. Use garlic powder (triple the amount) if fresh isn’t available.
Pro tip: Fresh garlic beats jarred for depth. No fancy seasoning blend? Mix equal parts salt, pepper, and paprika.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites
A golden sear and rich sauce turn simple ingredients into something special. Follow this step-by-step guide for tender, flavorful bites every time.
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Cut the meat into 1-inch cubes. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sear to Perfection
Heat a cast iron pan over high heat until oil shimmers. Cook the cubes in batches for 1–2 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding—this keeps the sear crisp.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Melt butter, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in Worcestershire sauce for depth. Burnt garlic tastes bitter, so watch the clock.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the meat to the pan, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with parsley. For extra flair, deglaze with red wine or Dijon mustard.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer—140–145°F means medium doneness. Double batches? Keep cooked bites warm in a 200°F oven.
Pro Tips for the Best Steak Bites
Mastering tender, juicy meat starts with smart prep and technique. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, these tricks ensure flawless results every time.
Choosing the Right Cut
Not all cuts are equal. Sirloin offers affordability and lean texture, while ribeye’s marbling adds richness. For balance, tri-tip is my go-to.
Marbling matters—those thin fat streaks melt during cooking, keeping the meat moist. Avoid pre-cut “stew meat”; it lacks uniformity for a proper sear.
Perfecting the Sear
A crisp crust locks in flavor. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before cooking. Moisture steams instead of browns.
Use a cast iron skillet—it retains heat evenly. Preheat until oil shimmers (avocado oil handles high heat best). Sear in batches to avoid crowding.
Sticking? Let the meat release naturally. If it resists, it’s not ready. A meat thermometer ensures precision (140°F for medium).
Serving Your Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Transform your dinner into a gourmet experience with these easy serving ideas. Pair the bites with creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the rich butter sauce. For a lighter touch, roasted veggies or a crisp salad balance the dish perfectly.
Elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of lemon zest. Kids love dipping them in ranch, while adults will appreciate a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. Leftovers? Toss them into tacos or grain bowls for next-day lunches.
Don’t waste a drop of that flavorful sauce—drizzle it over sides or crusty bread. Every bite should shine, from the first serving to the last.