Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Cut thick New York strip steaks into bite-sized cubes and season lightly with salt. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak cubes until browned and cooked through, turning halfway. Add freshly minced garlic and ground black pepper near the end to infuse the butter with aroma. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness. This simple method delivers tender, flavorful bites perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Lili Clark smiling at the camera.
Created By Lili Clark
Updated on Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:28:00 GMT
A bowl of meat with herbs and spices. Save
A bowl of meat with herbs and spices. | lilicooks.com

These garlic butter steak bites come together quickly and make a perfect weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer when you want something comforting but impressive. The rich butter and garlic coating gives the steak cubes a savory depth that never fails to satisfy meat lovers.

I first cooked these on a hectic evening, and they quickly became my go-to for when I want something quick and flavorful. Now my friends ask me to make them whenever they come over.

Ingredients

  • Garlic cloves: fresh garlic gives that sharp aromatic flavor that’s unbeatable
  • Freshly ground black pepper: brings just the right amount of warmth and a touch of spice
  • Fresh parsley leaves: adds a bright, herbal finish to balance the richness
  • New York strip steaks: thick-cut provides juicy, tender bites choose steaks with good marbling for best flavor
  • Kosher salt: enhances the natural flavors without overpowering
  • Unsalted butter: key for creating that luscious garlicky sauce and allows you to control saltiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Steak Bites:
Cut the New York strip steaks into 1-inch cubes. Season evenly with kosher salt. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add the unsalted butter. Once melted and bubbling, add the steak cubes in a single layer so they brown nicely. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes total, flipping halfway through to ensure all sides get a rich crust.
Add Garlic and Pepper:
Mince the garlic cloves finely and combine with freshly ground black pepper. After the steak is browned, add the garlic and black pepper to the pan and cook for about 1 more minute. This quick step gently roasts the garlic, infusing the butter and steak with amazing aroma without burning the garlic.
Finish with Parsley:
Remove the skillet from heat to avoid overcooking. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley leaves over the steak bites. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the butter and steak.
A bowl of meat with herbs and spices. Save
A bowl of meat with herbs and spices. | lilicooks.com

My favorite part is the parsley—it brightens each bite and transforms the whole dish from heavy to beautifully balanced. One memorable night we served this for friends, and it was the star of the table. Everyone loved how simple yet decadent it felt.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a small knob of butter to retain juiciness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the steak tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap New York strip with ribeye or sirloin if preferred, though ribeye will be richer and sirloin slightly leaner. For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality olive oil instead of butter and add garlic early to infuse the fat.

Serving Suggestions

These steak bites pair beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a light arugula salad to cut through the richness. For a casual meal, serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Thick-cut New York strip steak is ideal for its tenderness and marbling, but similar cuts like sirloin can also be used.

→ How do I prevent the steak bites from overcooking?

Cook the cubes on medium-high heat and turn them halfway through to ensure even searing without drying out the meat.

→ Can I substitute the unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is preferred to control seasoning, but clarified butter or a neutral oil can be used if needed.

→ When should I add the garlic during cooking?

Add minced garlic after the steak cubes have browned, cooking for about one minute to release its aroma without burning.

→ What does the parsley add to the dish?

Fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous contrast that enhances the richness of the butter and steak.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Savory New York strip cubes seared in butter with garlic and parsley for a delicious dish.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lili Clark

Category: Dinner

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Garlic and Herbs

01 4 cloves garlic, minced
02 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
04 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Protein

05 2 pounds thick-cut New York strip steaks, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Fats

06 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter

Steps

Step 01

Mince garlic cloves and combine with freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Chop fresh parsley leaves and set aside in a separate small bowl.

Step 02

Cut New York strip steaks into 1-inch cubes and season evenly with kosher salt.

Step 03

Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes and sear until browned, turning halfway through cooking, about 6 to 8 minutes total.

Step 04

Incorporate the garlic and black pepper mixture into the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 minute, then remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips

  1. For optimal flavor, use fresh garlic and high-quality New York strip steak.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy