The first waft of sizzling garlic butter fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Argentine bistro, where each bite is a celebration of flavor. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce—a dish that balances gourmet quality with the joy of home cooking. With tender, juicy steak bites coated in rich garlic butter, and a vibrant chimichurri to brighten each mouthful, this recipe offers a fabulous perk: it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone looking to elevate their dinner game, these steak bites provide both the indulgence and freshness you crave. Feeling inspired to get cooking? Let’s dive into the steps!
Why Are Garlic Butter Steak Bites Amazing?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich combination of garlic butter and steak creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: Whipping up this gourmet dish takes minimal time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Fresh Ingredients: With zesty chimichurri made from vibrant herbs, every bite bursts with freshness.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them as a stunning appetizer or a hearty main, and watch your guests ask for seconds!
Versatile Options: Substitute steak for shrimp or chicken for a delightful twist, or add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes.
Get ready to impress with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to share! Enjoy these steak bites alongside other favorites like Honey Garlic Butter or Garlic Butter Chicken.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create those delightful Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce.
For the Steak Bites
- Steak (sirloin or ribeye) – The star of the dish; substitute with chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors; adjust to your taste.
- Pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a spicy kick; use to season before cooking.
For the Garlic Butter
- Butter – Richness enhancer; can be swapped with olive oil for a lighter and healthier choice.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives an aromatic flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- Parsley – The primary herb for freshness; cilantro or spinach can be used for a twist.
- Cilantro – Adds brightness; feel free to omit if you prefer just parsley.
- Red wine vinegar – Balances the richness of the steak; lemon juice is a zesty alternative.
- Olive oil – Brings the chimichurri together, providing a nice base; consider extra virgin for more flavor.
With these fresh ingredients, you’re all set to create a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Begin by cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Generously season each piece with salt and freshly ground pepper for enhanced flavor. Let the seasoned steak rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes while you prepare the ingredients for the chimichurri, which will provide a fresh contrast to the rich garlic butter sauce.
Step 2: Make the Chimichurri
In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped parsley, and cilantro for a burst of flavor. Drizzle in red wine vinegar and olive oil, mixing thoroughly with a whisk or fork to blend all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding salt or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Set the chimichurri aside to allow the flavors to meld while you cook the steak bites.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to become hot before adding any ingredients. Once the pan is shimmering, add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Carefully add half the steak bites to the skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan, which ensures a perfect sear. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until the steak is well-browned and reaches your desired doneness.
Step 4: Add Garlic Butter
After the first batch of steak bites is cooked, remove them from the skillet and repeat the searing process with the remaining pieces. Once all the steak is done, return everything to the skillet, adding an additional tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Toss the steak bites gently to coat them in the garlic butter, cooking for an additional minute to infuse the rich flavors.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the succulent garlic butter steak bites to a serving platter, making sure to drizzle the vibrant chimichurri sauce generously over the top. The combination of tender steak and zesty chimichurri creates a feast for the senses, perfect for impressing your guests or simply enjoying at home. Serve immediately for the best flavor and experience this delightful dish!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your meal by pairing these succulent bites with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures, creating a feast worth savoring.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness complements the tender steak, soaking up the garlic butter goodness for a comforting duo.
Experience each bite of your steak with a spoonful of these silky mashed potatoes; together, they create a hug for your taste buds! -
Crispy Garlic Bread: This crispy, golden bread provides a perfect crunch alongside the tender steak bites, adding texture and flavor.
Serve it warm for the ideal contrast, allowing you to mop up any remaining chimichurri sauce! -
Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula lighten the meal, while a simple vinaigrette enhances the steak’s grilled flavors.
The freshness of the greens is a refreshing palate cleanser that brightens up each bite. -
Roasted Vegetables: A combination of colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus introduces earthy flavors and vibrant colors to your plate.
The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the rich beef, creating a hearty and wholesome meal. -
Herbed Quinoa: This protein-packed grain offers a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that complements the steak bites wonderfully.
Seasoned with fresh herbs, quinoa brings a vibrant element to your meal, enhancing both nutrition and taste. -
Red Wine: Choose a full-bodied red wine, like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the savory richness of the steak.
The wine’s tannins will balance the fat from the garlic butter, enriching your dining experience. -
Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet ending, this rich dessert provides a decadent contrast to the savory steak bites.
The smooth, creamy texture of the mousse creates a luxurious finish, leaving your guests completely satisfied.
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Fridge: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their tenderness and flavor.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving steak bites out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent food spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled steak bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Garlic Butter Steak Bites again, reheat gently on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring to prevent overcooking.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to ensure they stay fresh. The chimichurri sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the prepped steak bites and toss them in garlic butter as directed. This saves time on busy weeknights while delivering delicious, restaurant-quality results!
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Steak Bites
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Pat the Steak Dry: Always pat your steak dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a beautiful sear and enhances that delightful crust you crave.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing, give each steak bite space to breathe. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of that satisfying caramelization.
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Control the Heat: Adjust your skillet’s heat as you cook to maintain a steady temperature. Too hot might burn the garlic; too low can lead to a chewy steak.
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Chimichurri Adjustments: Customize your chimichurri by tweaking the vinegar or oil-to-herb ratio according to your taste. Making it yours guarantees fresh flavors in every bite!
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Perfect Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat them on low heat to avoid overcooking the steak again.
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Served with Style: These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce shine when served with a side salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal experience.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites Variations
Customize this sensational dish to suit your cravings and dietary needs with these delightful variations!
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Seafood Twist: Swap steak for shrimp for a savory seafood alternative that cooks up in minutes. The garlic butter complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp beautifully.
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Herb Power-Up: Mix in fresh oregano or thyme into the chimichurri for a fragrant lift that enhances the original recipe. The aromatic notes create a rich depth of flavor!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the chimichurri for a zesty, fiery twist. This hint of heat will surprise your taste buds and elevate the dish!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You’ll still get that beautiful richness minus the dairy.
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Zesty Upgrade: Use lime juice instead of red wine vinegar in your chimichurri for a refreshing citrusy bite. Lime brings an exciting twist that brightens up every bite.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap steak for tofu or tempeh, marinated briefly for a protein-packed vegetarian dish. The garlic butter sauce will add delicious richness to your meatless meal.
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Steak & Veggie Combo: Add colorful bell peppers or asparagus to the skillet with your steak bites for a vibrant, nutritious boost. The veggies caramelize beautifully alongside the garlic butter!
These variations not only offer diverse flavors but also cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Dive into more recipes like Crockpot Garlic Butter or Brown Butter Pumpkin for even more culinary inspiration.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of steak should I use for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
I recommend using sirloin or ribeye for their rich flavor and tenderness, but you can substitute with leaner cuts like flank or even chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
How long can I store leftover steak bites in the fridge?
Leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool before storing to retain their texture.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Steak Bites? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, let the steak bites cool completely. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date!
What should I do if my garlic burns while cooking?
If your garlic starts to burn, quickly remove the pan from the heat and add a little butter or oil to cool it down. It’s best to keep the heat moderate and stir the mixture frequently to prevent burning, allowing you to maintain that delicious garlic flavor without the bitterness.
Is chimichurri suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! Chimichurri is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by omitting any animal products like honey. If you’re concerned about allergies, double-check that the vinegar and oils you use are allergy-friendly. Also, some may want to avoid cilantro due to its distinctive flavor—just increase the parsley if that’s the case!
How can I tell if my steak is cooked to the right doneness?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check! Aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, which is what most steakhouses recommend for a tender bite. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also use the touch test: press the center of the steak; it should feel slightly firm but still have some give for medium-rare.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Fresh Chimichurri Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Combine minced garlic, chopped parsley, and cilantro in a medium bowl. Add red wine vinegar and olive oil, mix well. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and sear half the steak bites for 2–3 minutes on each side.
- Remove the first batch, repeat with remaining steak bites. Add more butter and minced garlic, toss to coat.
- Serve steak bites on a platter and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce. Enjoy immediately!
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