If you are craving a dish that feels indulgent yet straightforward, look no further than this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe. Tender cubes of perfectly seared steak bathed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce enriched with garlic butter create an irresistible combination of flavors. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering a wonderful balance of savory, creamy, and subtly spicy notes that will quickly make this your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the rich, juicy steak bites to the creamy, flavorful sauce. Using simple, high-quality ingredients lets the deliciousness shine through, making your cooking experience rewarding and fun.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful steak bites that sear beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a perfect base for searing the steak without overpowering its flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps marry flavors in the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a bold, aromatic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the steak and sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth without dominating.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base for the Parmesan cream sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Provides a balanced herbaceous backdrop.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of vibrant green.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
The foundation of this dish is perfectly seasoned steak bites, so sprinkle them evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then arrange the steak cubes in a single layer. This helps them sear properly rather than steam. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side to get that irresistible browned crust while keeping the centers juicy. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Flavor
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—you want it to release its aroma but avoid any bitterness that comes with overcooking. This step is crucial because the garlic butter infuses the sauce with a cozy, mouthwatering richness.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat, and Italian seasoning. Let this mixture gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce starting to thicken and develop that silky texture that perfectly coats the steak bites later.
Step 4: Combine Steak Bites with Sauce
Return the seared steak bites back to the skillet and toss them lovingly in the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional minute to let the flavors meld and the steak warm through. At this point, your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe is looking and smelling like a dream come true.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. This simple green touch brightens the dish and adds a lovely visual contrast to the creamy sauce and browned steak. Serve hot and savor every bite of this heavenly meal.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped parsley is a must, not only for its fresh flavor but also because it brings a vibrant splash of color to the plate. If you want to get fancy, a little extra grated Parmesan right before serving elevates the indulgence factor even more!
Side Dishes
These steak bites pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy bed of rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. Alternatively, toss them with your favorite pasta for a quick yet impressive dinner. Steamed or roasted vegetables add balance and crunch, making your meal both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these steak bites over crispy polenta rounds or alongside garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce. For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, skewer the steak bites and drizzle with the Parmesan cream sauce for dipping—it’s fun, elegant, and perfect for sharing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors remain delightful, making it an excellent option for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the steak and cream sauce might change slightly once defrosted. If you choose to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and consume within 1 month for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk during reheating can help maintain that silky consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the steak tender and sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for the steak bites?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or strip steak. Just make sure to cut the steak into uniform cubes for even cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, but the sauce will be slightly different in texture and taste.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions. Add them to the pan after removing the steak bites to soften them before making the sauce, then combine everything for a heartier meal.
How spicy is the sauce with crushed red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. You can omit or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance perfectly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for guests?
You can prep the steak bites and sauce separately ahead of time and gently reheat them together just before serving. This way, you get fresh, hot steak bites with a creamy sauce and spend less time in the kitchen during your gathering.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe is one of those magical dishes that seems fancy but comes together effortlessly. It’s rich, comforting, and utterly satisfying—perfect whether you’re treating yourself or impressing dinner guests. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy every bite of the luscious, garlicky goodness that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with a rich Parmesan Cream Sauce, perfect for a hearty meal. Tender sirloin or ribeye steak cubes are seared to perfection and smothered in a creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Steak: In a bowl, toss the steak cubes with salt, black pepper, and paprika to evenly coat.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the Parmesan cream sauce. Simmer for another minute to heat through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve the steak bites hot. Ideal served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a fulfilling meal.
- You can substitute chicken or shrimp for the steak if preferred.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a touch of cream cheese.
