Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with a Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sauce); 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (for sauce); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste (for sauce); Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the richness of seared steak bites with the decadence of a homemade Parmesan cream sauce. It’s simple to make but feels restaurant-quality, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The recipe is also versatile, serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with a Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the steak bites:

1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For the Parmesan cream sauce:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions

Pat the steak cubes dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in batches, searing for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Return the steak to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Serve the steak bites with the Parmesan cream sauce poured over the top or on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking.

Variations

Swap the sirloin or ribeye with filet mignon for an extra tender bite.
Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for additional flavor.
Spice it up with more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Make it a full meal by serving over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce from separating. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the steak.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cuts like New York strip, tenderloin, or even flank steak, though cooking times may vary.

Can I make this recipe without the cream sauce?

Absolutely. The garlic butter steak bites are delicious on their own, and the cream sauce is just an optional indulgence.

What can I serve with garlic butter steak bites?

Great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and sear the steak ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving.

How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?

Cook the steak in small batches over high heat for just a few minutes per side to achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside tender.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a smoother sauce, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.

Is there a lighter option for the cream sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.

Can I freeze the steak bites and sauce?

The steak bites can be frozen, but the cream sauce doesn’t freeze well. It’s best to make the sauce fresh.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the steak?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to maintain moisture.

Can I add herbs to the sauce?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley pair wonderfully with the Parmesan cream sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan cream sauce are a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. With tender steak, rich sauce, and endless serving options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.