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Easy Garlic Butter Steak Bites for Two: Best Valentine’s Dinner

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Tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection and finished in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh herbs. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy yet impressive recipe is perfect for a romantic Valentine’s dinner or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, for a tiny kick
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the steak (5 minutes): Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. Let them sit at room temperature while you get the pan ready.
  2. Heat the pan (2 minutes): Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Swirl the pan as the butter melts. You want the oil shimmering and the butter foaming but not browning yet.
  3. Sear the steak bites in batches (4 minutes total): Carefully place half the steak cubes in the pan, making sure they’re not touching each other. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 minutes. Flip each piece with tongs and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is deeply browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining steak cubes.
  4. Make the garlic butter sauce (2 minutes): Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic, thyme sprigs, and rosemary sprig. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not brown.
  5. Return the steak to the pan (1 minute): Add all the steak bites back into the pan, along with any juices that collected on the plate. Toss everything together so each piece gets coated in that glorious garlic butter. Cook for about 30 seconds, just to warm through.
  6. Finish and serve (1 minute): Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately in the skillet or transfer to a warm plate.

Notes

Don’t skip patting the steak dry—moisture prevents browning. Work in batches to avoid steaming the meat. Watch the garlic carefully as it burns quickly. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

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