Description
These Tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce are a delightful combination of perfectly seared, juicy steak cubes infused with aromatic garlic butter, and topped with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for an indulgent dinner, this dish bursts with savory flavors from fresh herbs and melted cheese, creating a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
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 steak from refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes for even cooking.
- 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 until all pieces are evenly coated.
- 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, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side, forming a deep brown crust. This will take about 6-8 minutes total for medium-rare to medium doneness. Remove the cooked steak to a clean plate and repeat with the remaining steak.
- Infuse with Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add 6-8 cloves of minced garlic, along with 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme if using. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Baste Steak: Return all the seared steak bites to the skillet. Toss gently in the garlic butter and baste them with a spoon for 1-2 minutes to warm through and absorb the flavorful butter. 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 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze: Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and simmer for 1-2 minutes while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor.
- Add Cream & Seasoning: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups heavy cream, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Bring to a very gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine & Serve (Options): You can either pour the Parmesan sauce directly into the skillet with the steak bites and toss them together over low heat for another minute to coat, or arrange the steak bites on a serving platter and generously drizzle the sauce over them. Alternatively, serve the sauce in a separate bowl for dipping.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle the dish generously with the remaining 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, allow steak to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while searing to ensure a perfect crust; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for optimal heat retention and sear quality.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Low sodium chicken broth is preferred to control salt levels in the sauce.
- Adjust cooking time for steak bites to your desired doneness—use a meat thermometer if needed.
- The Parmesan sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated but is best fresh.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens as it cools.
