Garlic Butter Steak Bites

The first time I made these steak bites, my husband literally hovered over the stove with a fork, sneaking pieces as fast as I could finish them. That garlic butter fills the whole kitchen with this incredible aroma that makes everyone wander in asking what smells so good. Now they are my go-to for game day or when we want something fancy without spending hours cooking.

I remember serving these at our annual Super Bowl party last year and watching them disappear in record time. My friend who claims she does not like spicy food kept going back for more sauce, saying the horseradish was just right. Now every time we have people over, someone asks if I am making those steak bites again.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 lbs sirloin steak: Cut into cubes and pat them really dry before seasoning so they get that beautiful sear
• 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper: Season generously since this is the main flavor for the meat itself
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for searing over high heat
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: This creates that luxurious garlic butter coating at the end
• 4 cloves garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds so much more flavor than garlic powder ever could
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley: Adds a bright pop of color and fresh flavor to finish
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Full fat sour cream makes the sauce rich and creamy
• 2 tbsp prepared horseradish: Adjust this based on how much heat you like
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: This adds depth and helps emulsify the sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon brightens and balances the rich flavors

Instructions

Make the sauce first:

Whisk together sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you cook the steak.

Prep the steak:

Pat the cubes completely dry with paper towels and season all over with salt and pepper.

Sear the steak bites:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until it shimmers. Add steak in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

Make the garlic butter:

Remove steak to a plate and tent with foil. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, and once melted add minced garlic for 30 seconds.

Finish and serve:

Toss the steak back in the skillet to coat in garlic butter for about 1 minute. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with the horseradish sauce alongside.

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These steak bites have become our anniversary dinner tradition because they feel special enough for a celebration but are so easy to make at home. There is something about eating them with toothpicks that makes the whole meal feel more fun and relaxed.

Choosing the Right Cut

Sirloin works beautifully here because it is tender enough for quick cooking but still has great beefy flavor. Ribeye or strip steak would be excellent upgrades if you want to splurge a little for a special occasion.

Getting That Perfect Sear

High heat and a dry surface are the secrets to restaurant style caramelization. Listen for that sizzle when the meat hits the pan and resist the urge to move it around too much.

Serving Ideas

These work as an elegant appetizer with toothpicks or make them a main with roasted potatoes and green beans. The sauce also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or even as a dip for fries.

• Try serving with crusty bread to soak up extra garlic butter
• A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness
• These reheat surprisingly well for lunch the next day

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Hope these become a new favorite in your house like they are in ours.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can also be used for a richer taste.

→ How do I get a good sear on the steak bites?

Use a hot skillet with olive oil and cook steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding to achieve a browned crust.

→ Can I prepare the horseradish sauce ahead of time?

Yes, mix the horseradish sauce ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve for enhanced flavor melding.

→ What can I serve alongside these steak bites?

They pair well with roasted potatoes, green beans, or served as finger food with toothpicks for appetizers.

→ How can I adjust the heat level in the dish?

Increase or decrease the amount of horseradish in the sauce to match your preferred spice level.