Description
These Tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce are a rich and flavorful dish featuring perfectly seared steak cubes infused with garlic butter and served with a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Cooked on the stovetop for a delicious crust and tender interior, this recipe is an elegant yet easy meal perfect for a special dinner or indulgent weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak Bites
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless sirloin steak, ribeye, or beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Steak: Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat the meat dry thoroughly to ensure proper searing and then cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
- Season Steak: In a large bowl, toss the cubed steak with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to coat evenly.
- Sear Steak (Batches): Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron recommended) over high heat until it is smoking hot. Add half of the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side until a deep brown crust forms, about 6-8 minutes total for medium-rare to medium. Remove the seared steak to a clean plate and repeat with the remaining steak.
- Infuse with Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic cloves, chopped rosemary, and thyme (if using). Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Baste Steak: Return all the seared steak bites to the skillet. Gently toss the steak bites in the garlic butter, basting with a spoon for 1-2 minutes to warm through and absorb the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Start Parmesan Sauce: In a separate medium saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to deglaze and enhance flavor.
- Add Cream & Seasoning: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring to a very gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine & Serve (Options): Either pour the Parmesan sauce directly into the skillet with the steak bites and toss to coat over low heat for another minute, or arrange the steak bites on a serving platter and drizzle the sauce over them. Alternatively, serve the sauce separately for dipping.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Garnish generously with the remaining fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- Letting the steak come to room temperature before cooking helps achieve an even sear.
- Dry the steak cubes thoroughly to get a better crust during searing.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when searing to maintain high heat and proper browning.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the steak cut and thickness; adjust accordingly for desired doneness.
- The Parmesan sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are optional but add great aroma and flavor.
- Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or garlic butter pasta for a satisfying meal.
