Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp (28g) butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season the steak: Season the steak bites with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the steak: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the cream sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Finish and serve: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter Parmesan sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately!
20 Popular Questions & Answers
- Q: Can I use a different cut of steak? A: Yes, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or strip steak for this recipe. Just make sure it’s a tender cut of beef for the best result.
- Q: Can I substitute heavy cream with something else? A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might not be as rich. Add a bit of cornstarch to thicken if needed.
- Q: What can I serve with this dish? A: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple side salad work great with these steak bites.
- Q: How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough? A: Avoid overcooking the steak. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium, depending on thickness.
- Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: You can cook the steak ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the sauce just before serving.
- Q: Can I use chicken instead of steak? A: Yes, you can use chicken breast or thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Q: How can I make the sauce thicker? A: Let the sauce simmer longer, or add a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water) to thicken it.
- Q: Can I add mushrooms to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms along with the garlic before adding the broth and cream for an extra flavor boost.
- Q: Can I use salted butter? A: Yes, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.
- Q: Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan? A: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for a smoother sauce, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.
- Q: Can I use olive oil instead of butter? A: You can, but butter gives the dish a richer, more flavorful taste.
- Q: How long should I let the sauce simmer? A: Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, but keep an eye on it to prevent over-thickening.
- Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.
- Q: Can I use low-fat cream? A: Low-fat cream will work, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
- Q: What’s the best way to reheat the steak bites? A: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the steak.
- Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Yes, just make sure to cook the steak in batches so it sears properly.
- Q: Can I add red pepper flakes for some heat? A: Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick to the sauce.
- Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? A: You can substitute the steak with firm tofu or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Q: How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? A: Make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and don’t let it boil. Also, add the cream slowly while stirring.
- Q: Can I make this dairy-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
30 Helpful Tips to Make It Even More Delightful
- Use fresh garlic for the most flavorful sauce.
- Opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
- Sear the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for a perfect sear on the steak.
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the steak to get a good crust.
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter while cooking for extra flavor.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth to lift the flavorful bits.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- Stir the sauce continuously to prevent it from sticking or burning.
- Let the sauce reduce to your desired thickness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor in the cream sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Cook steak bites to medium-rare for the juiciest result.
- Add sautéed mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor.
- For a smoky flavor, cook the steak on a grill before tossing it in the sauce.
- Use heavy cream for the richest, creamiest sauce.
- Stir in some Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deep savory flavor.
- Toss the steak bites in a little flour before cooking for a slightly thicker sauce.
- Use garlic powder if you’re out of fresh garlic, but fresh is always best.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth if it’s too thick.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic—it can turn bitter quickly.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra savory goodness.
- If you want a thinner sauce, add a little more broth or cream.
- Serve over pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.
- Keep the sauce warm on low heat to prevent it from hardening as it cools.
40 Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Steak Bites
- Use a hot pan for a quick sear.
- Let the steak rest before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steak on both sides for a caramelized crust.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Cut steak into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Rest the steak after cooking to retain juices.
- Use clarified butter to avoid burning.
- Sear in a cast-iron skillet for the best results.
- Pat the steak dry before cooking.
- Use a high-smoke-point oil if you want to avoid butter.
- Cook in batches to avoid steaming the meat.
- Avoid moving the steak while searing.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Preheat the pan for even cooking.
- Add herbs and garlic for extra flavor.
- Deglaze the pan for a flavorful sauce.
- Baste the steak with butter while cooking.
- Let the sauce thicken naturally by simmering.
- Keep a close eye on the garlic—it can burn easily.
- Adjust cooking times based on steak thickness.
- Add a splash of wine to the sauce for richness.
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Stir sauce frequently to avoid burning.
- Add extra garlic for a stronger flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Serve steak bites immediately for the best texture.
- Use room-temperature steak for even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the steak bites—aim for medium-rare.
- Add a bit of sour cream to the sauce for tanginess.