If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, steak bites are your answer.
These tender morsels of beef, seared to perfection, are ideal for those craving the juicy goodness of a steak but want something faster and easier to prepare. Whether served as a main dish or a party appetizer, steak bites are a surefire hit. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but offers flavors sophisticated enough to impress even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the perfect steak bites recipe, offer tips on choosing the best cut of beef, and provide a detailed FAQ section to answer all your questions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious steak bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of steak (ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
1. Choose and Prep Your Steak
First things first—choose your cut of steak. Ribeye, tenderloin, or sirloin are excellent choices for steak bites due to their flavor and tenderness. Make sure to remove any excess fat, and cut the steak into 1-inch cubes for easy cooking and even distribution of seasoning.
2. Season the Steak Bites
In a bowl, toss the cubed steak with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Make sure the steak is well-coated with the seasonings. You can also let the steak sit for 10-15 minutes for a slightly enhanced flavor.
3. Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes on each side until you achieve a nice crust. The goal here is to get a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
4. Add Butter and Garlic
After the steak bites are seared, add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir and let the garlic cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma, ensuring it doesn’t burn. The butter and garlic will coat the steak bites, adding a delicious richness to each bite.
5. Serve Immediately
Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the pan and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For a pop of freshness, you can serve with lemon wedges, which helps cut through the richness of the steak and butter.
Tips for the Best Steak Bites
Use a Hot Pan: The key to perfect steak bites is a hot pan. A sizzling skillet ensures a golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Cast iron pans work best due to their ability to maintain high heat.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan causes the steak to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook the steak bites in batches to allow proper browning.
Room Temperature Steak: Before cooking, allow the steak to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak and prevents the outside from becoming overcooked while the inside remains underdone.
Use Butter at the End: Adding butter and garlic toward the end of cooking enhances flavor without burning the butter. This step ensures a rich, savory finish.
Rest Before Serving: Let the steak bites rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each bite tender and juicy.
FAQs About Steak Bites
1. What’s the best cut of steak for steak bites?
The best cuts for steak bites are those that are tender and flavorful. Ribeye is a favorite for its marbling and rich flavor. Sirloin is leaner but still offers excellent tenderness and taste. Tenderloin (filet mignon) is another top choice for its buttery texture, though it’s pricier.
2. Can I marinate the steak beforehand?
While this recipe uses a dry seasoning mix, you can absolutely marinate the steak beforehand. A simple marinade made with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and olive oil works wonders. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Cooking steak bites from frozen will result in uneven cooking, with the exterior overcooked while the interior remains raw.
4. What’s the ideal cooking temperature for steak bites?
For medium-rare steak bites, aim for an internal temperature of about 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, shoot for 140-145°F (60-63°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your steak bites are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. How do I reheat leftover steak bites?
Reheating steak can be tricky as it tends to dry out quickly. The best method is to reheat steak bites in a skillet over low heat with a little butter, allowing them to warm gently without overcooking. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the steak tough and chewy.
6. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
While this recipe is traditionally made on the stovetop, you can bake the steak bites in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the seasoned steak cubes on a baking sheet, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness. Finish them under the broiler for a few minutes for extra browning.
7. What sides go well with steak bites?
Steak bites pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Some popular options include:
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a classic, comforting meal.
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Crispy fries for a simple, indulgent pairing.
8. Can I add vegetables to the skillet with the steak?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions can be sautéed alongside the steak bites for a flavorful mix. Just make sure to cook the vegetables first and set them aside before searing the steak to ensure each ingredient gets the attention it deserves.
9. Can I use other seasonings?
Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat, use a steak seasoning blend, or incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
10. Are steak bites keto-friendly?
Yes, steak bites are naturally keto-friendly since they’re high in protein and fat while containing very few carbs. To keep the meal keto, pair them with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Steak bites are a delicious and versatile option for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak in minutes. Follow this recipe and tips to achieve perfectly seared, juicy bites that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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