If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and creamy indulgence, you must try this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe. Each tender bite of seared sirloin steak is enveloped in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, then luxuriously coated with a velvety Parmesan cream sauce that adds both depth and elegance. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a cozy gathering, this recipe delivers amazing taste and comfort in just about 25 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, ensuring every element contributes to the dish’s rich flavor, luscious texture, and inviting appearance. From the juicy steak bites to the creamy Parmesan sauce, each component works in harmony.
- Sirloin steak (1 lb): Choose good quality sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the steak.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a rich base for both searing and creating the sauce, ensuring depth and silkiness.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The star aromatics that infuse the butter and sauce with vibrant, irresistible flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious body and smoothness for the Parmesan cream sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a salty, nutty essence that perfectly rounds out the creamy sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that brings herbal notes and complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the finished dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Steak Bites
First things first, season those perfectly cut steak bites with salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the steak bites in a single layer—this step is crucial for achieving that irresistible golden-brown crust. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then turn and cook the other side for another 1 to 2 minutes until they reach your preferred doneness. Once they’re beautifully seared, remove them from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium, then melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet, allowing those delicious steak drippings to flavor the sauce. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly—about 30 seconds—until the aroma fills your kitchen. Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to combine, bringing it to a soft simmer. Now whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce transforms into a smooth, creamy masterpiece. Season with Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little extra zing, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to let everything thicken nicely. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
Step 3: Combine Steak Bites and Sauce
Return the seared steak bites to your skillet, tossing gently so every piece is decadently coated in that luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Let the bites warm through for a final 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A touch of fresh chopped parsley is all you need to enhance this dish visually and add a hint of herbaceous brightness. You might also consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to double down on that cheesy goodness. A lemon wedge on the side can offer a little citrus brightness if you want to balance the richness with a bit of acidity.
Side Dishes
Pair these steak bites with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter roasted vegetables for a complete comfort meal. Crisp green beans or a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can lighten the plate and add zesty freshness. Polenta or buttered noodles also make excellent carriers of the sauce, letting you savor every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the steak bites on a bed of fluffy risotto or alongside a crusty baguette for dipping into the Parmesan cream sauce. For a party or appetizer style, skewer the steak bites and drizzle with the cream sauce just before serving, making it easy and elegant. You could even use the sauce as a decadent topping for baked potatoes, turning a simple side into a star.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream sauce may thicken as it cools, so give it a gentle reheat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back its silky texture.
Freezing
Since the sauce is cream-based, freezing is not ideal and may alter the texture once thawed. If you must freeze, separate the steak bites and sauce, and freeze them independently. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully to minimize any separation.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a little cream or milk during reheating helps restore the smooth, luscious consistency, making it taste nearly as fresh as when first made.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribeye or filet mignon tips. Just make sure to cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
By default, it’s not spicy, but the pinch of red pepper flakes adds a mild kick if you opt to include them. Feel free to adjust or omit the flakes according to your spice tolerance.
Can I make the Parmesan cream sauce dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream or a cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and choose a dairy-free cheese substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different but still delicious.
How long do garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan cream sauce last?
Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be safely refrigerated and reheated within that timeframe.
What if I want the steak bites more well-done?
You can cook the steak bites a little longer on the second side, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out. Medium to medium-rare results in the juiciest bites, but personal preference always wins!
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and stunning. It’s the kind of dish that feels special without needing hours in the kitchen. So go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this irresistible combination of savory, creamy, and garlicky goodness. You won’t regret it!
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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
Description
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a quick and indulgent dish featuring tender sirloin steak morsels seared to perfection and coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe balances savory steak with a luscious, cheesy sauce and a hint of spice from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak Bites: Season the sirloin steak pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them sear for 2 minutes without moving to develop a golden-brown crust, then flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until the desired doneness is achieved. Remove the cooked steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine and Serve: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss them to coat evenly with the Parmesan cream sauce. Let the mixture warm through for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors together. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing to ensure a good crust on the steak bites.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Serve this dish with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over pasta to enjoy the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated on the stovetop.
