Skillet Seared Steak Bites (Printable)

Tender steak cubes seared and tossed in garlic butter for a quick, savory dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Steak

01 - 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ For Searing

05 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil

→ Garlic Butter

06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 5 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
10 - 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
02 - Heat a large heavy skillet over high heat and add the oil, heating until shimmering.
03 - Place steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding; sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until deeply caramelized and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and loosely cover with foil.
04 - Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter to the skillet, and once melted, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant without browning.
05 - Return steak bites to skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter. Add parsley, thyme, and red pepper flakes, then toss again to combine.
06 - Serve hot, spooning additional garlic butter over the steak bites as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in less time than it takes to preheat the oven, with restaurant quality crust and flavor.
  • Only one pan to wash, and the garlic butter does all the heavy lifting for you.
  • Works just as well for a quiet dinner as it does when friends show up unexpectedly.
02 -
  • Do not skip drying the steak, wet meat will not brown and you will end up with gray, sad cubes.
  • Overcrowding the pan traps steam and kills the sear, work in batches if your skillet is not big enough.
  • Garlic burns in seconds once the butter melts, keep stirring and pull it off heat the moment it smells toasted.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat better and gives you the deepest sear.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving, the acid cuts through the butter and makes everything taste brighter.
  • If you want a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey to the garlic butter while it melts.
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