Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 385 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces – Choose well-marbled sirloin for optimal tenderness and flavor
Salt and pepper , to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural beef flavors
2 tbsp (28g) butter – Creates the foundation for our aromatic garlic butter base
5 cloves garlic , minced – Provides the signature aromatic punch that elevates every bite
½ cup (120ml) beef broth – Adds depth and richness while deglazing the pan
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, velvety texture of our cream sauce
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese – Delivers sharp, nutty flavors and natural thickening properties
Fresh parsley , for garnish – Adds vibrant color and fresh herbal notes to finish the dish

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear
Begin your culinary masterpiece by generously seasoning the steak bites with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This crucial step not only enhances flavor but also helps create the beautiful caramelized crust that locks in juices.
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s properly preheated – this is essential for achieving that perfect sear. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely, swirling to coat the pan evenly. The butter should sizzle gently but not brown.
Carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the hot skillet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. The goal is to develop a rich, golden-brown crust while maintaining the tender interior. Once beautifully seared, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean it – those browned bits are flavor gold!), add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
Pour in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This deglazing process incorporates all those caramelized flavors into your sauce, creating incredible depth.
Gradually stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Return the perfectly seared steak bites to the skillet, stirring gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the rich Parmesan cream sauce. Allow everything to warm through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
Remove from heat and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley before serving immediately. The vibrant green herbs not only add visual appeal but also provide a fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy sauce.

Notes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent common pitfalls that can compromise your perfect garlic butter steak bites with these expert insights:

Temperature Control Issues:

Mistake: Using insufficient heat resulting in steamed rather than seared meat
Solution: Ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding butter and steak

Overcrowding Problems:

Mistake: Adding too many steak pieces at once, causing temperature drops and uneven cooking
Solution: Cook in batches if necessary, maintaining proper spacing for optimal browning

Garlic Burning:

Mistake: Adding garlic too early or using excessive heat, creating bitter flavors
Solution: Add garlic after removing steak and use medium heat, cooking just until fragrant

Sauce Separation:

Mistake: Adding cold cream too quickly or overheating, causing the sauce to break
Solution: Gradually incorporate room-temperature cream while maintaining gentle heat

Overcooking Concerns:

Mistake: Continuing to cook steak after returning to sauce, resulting in tough meat
Solution: Simply warm through briefly once combined with sauce

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize freshness and maintain quality with these professional storage techniques:

Immediate Storage:

Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and bacterial growth
Store in airtight glass containers to preserve flavors and prevent odor absorption
Separate sauce and meat if possible for optimal reheating results

Refrigeration Guidelines:

Storage Time: Up to 3 days in refrigerator at 40°F or below
Container Choice: Use shallow, wide containers for faster cooling and even temperature distribution
Labeling: Date containers clearly to track freshness and ensure food safety

Freezing Instructions:

Preparation: Cool completely and portion into freezer-safe containers
Storage Duration: Up to 3 months in freezer at 0°F or below
Thawing Process: Thaw overnight in refrigerator, never at room temperature

Reheating Best Practices:

Stovetop Method: Gently reheat in skillet over low heat, adding splash of cream if needed
Microwave Option: Use 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between heating cycles
Oven Technique: Cover and reheat at 325°F until warmed through, approximately 10-15 minutes