If you’re craving buttery, melt-in-your-mouth steak smothered in an ultra-creamy, cheesy sauce, prepare yourself for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce. This recipe is outrageously delicious, easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests! Every bite is filled with juicy steak, rich garlic butter flavor, and a blanket of velvety Parmesan cream that makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve it as a fun appetizer or over fluffy mashed potatoes for a decadent dinner, these steak bites always earn rave reviews at my table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce is how a handful of everyday ingredients transform into a restaurant-worthy dish. Each one plays a special role, from building those perfect seared edges on the steak to creating a dreamy, spoon-coating sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Sirloin steak (1 1/2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes): Sirloin provides tender, juicy bites without breaking the bank—feel free to use ribeye or New York strip for even more decadence.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps create a gorgeous seared crust and keeps those steak bites from sticking.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Rich buttery flavor is the heart of both the steak and sauce—using unsalted lets you control the salt level perfectly.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced, divided): Nothing beats real minced garlic for a bold, aromatic foundation in both the steak and sauce.
- Salt (3/4 teaspoon, divided): Essential for bringing out every savory layer.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, divided): Lends a subtle hint of heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A pop of smoky warmth that highlights the steak’s flavor (but you can skip if you prefer).
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens everything up with a splash of green and fresh flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to a lusciously thick, spoonable Parmesan sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Tangy, salty, and melts seamlessly for the ultimate creaminess—always use real Parmesan here!
- Red pepper flakes (a pinch, optional): For a gentle zing in the sauce, especially if you love just a touch of heat.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Step 1: Season the Steak
To start, pat your sirloin cubes dry and generously season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This simple blend builds a flavor-packed base and ensures each steak bite develops that ultra-savory, caramelized exterior during searing.
Step 2: Sear Steak Bites
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your steak cubes in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan, or you’ll steam them instead of searing! Sear them for about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully browned on the outside but still juicy inside. Depending on your pan size, work in batches and transfer the cooked bites to a plate so they don’t overcook.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter and Finish Steak
Turn the heat down to medium and melt in 2 tablespoons of butter. Add your minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, using a spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits on the bottom. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in that golden garlic butter goodness. Remove from heat and keep them warm while you make the sauce.
Step 4: Prepare Parmesan Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter and add your remaining garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and gently let it come to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan, remaining salt and pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly for a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Pour the luscious Parmesan cream sauce right over your waiting steak bites or serve it alongside for dipping. Give everything a final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Now, all that’s left is to savor your Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce while it’s hot and at its absolute best!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches—a generous shower of fresh chopped parsley gives a pop of color and freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. You could also try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or freshly ground black pepper for a pretty (and tasty!) final layer.
Side Dishes
These steak bites were practically made for serving over a fluffy mountain of mashed potatoes—the sauce soaks right in for dreamy, comforting bites. They’re also fantastic on a bed of buttery pasta, whipped cauliflower for a lighter spin, or even a scoop of garlicky rice. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to transform your skillet meal into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try skewering the steak bites with toothpicks and serving the Parmesan cream sauce in a warm dipping bowl—guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Or, pile everything onto a sharing platter and let everyone dig in. Want to go upscale? Spoon the steak bites onto a rustic slice of toasted sourdough and drizzle generously with sauce for an elegant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the steak separate from the sauce if possible to prevent the meat from becoming soggy, and to keep the sauce as smooth as possible when you reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked steak bites on their own in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. However, the Parmesan cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh—when thawed, creamy sauces sometimes separate or change in texture, so it’s not ideal for freezing. If you do freeze the sauce, whisk gently over low heat when reheating to restore its smoothness as best you can.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the steak bites in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Warm the sauce separately over gentle heat, stirring constantly until heated through and creamy—this helps prevent the sauce from breaking. Combine everything just before serving and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce?
Absolutely! While sirloin offers a wonderful mix of tenderness and value, ribeye, New York strip, or even filet mignon will work beautifully—just adjust your cook time to match the cut’s size and thickness. Always aim for steak that’s tender and well-marbled for the juiciest bites.
How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker Parmesan cream sauce, let it simmer a minute or two longer, stirring constantly. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of extra cream or even milk until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be velvety and pourable, so feel free to customize as you like.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten up Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the sauce, and serve with extra steamed vegetables. You could also use less butter in both the steak and the sauce—just enough to keep that signature flavor!
What’s the best way to prep ahead for a party?
Cut your steak and prep your garlic earlier in the day, and even pre-grate your Parmesan cheese to save time later. You can also pan-sear the steak bites ahead of time and make the sauce right before serving for the freshest, creamiest results. Just gently rewarm the steak bites in the skillet with the garlic butter before adding the sauce.
How do I keep the Parmesan sauce from clumping?
Always use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese, which doesn’t melt as smoothly. Add the cheese gradually to the hot cream off the stove, stirring constantly, to ensure a glossy, lump-free sauce. If it gets too thick or clumpy, a splash of warm cream will bring it back together.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce—the kind of crave-worthy meal that’s quick, comforting, and destined to become your new go-to. Treat yourself (and your favorite people) to this skillet sensation and see just how simple great food can be when made with love and a little extra butter. Enjoy every last bite!
Print
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: Vegetarian
Description
Tender sirloin steak bites cooked to perfection in a garlic butter sauce, served with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is bursting with savory flavors and is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients
For the steak bites:
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For the Parmesan cream sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season the steak bites: Season the steak bites with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Sear the steak bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak bites and set aside.
- Prepare the garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds, scraping up browned bits. Return steak bites to the skillet, toss to coat in garlic butter, and remove from heat. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Make the Parmesan cream sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the Parmesan cream sauce over the garlic butter steak bites or serve on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a full meal.
- For extra richness, use a splash of white wine in the sauce.
- Leftovers reheat well in a skillet over low heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
