How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan is the answer! This dish combines perfectly seared steak bites with a rich garlic butter sauce and creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce enhances the steak’s natural taste, while the creamy Parmesan pasta adds a comforting touch.
• Versatile Meal: Great for both casual dinners or more elegant gatherings; this recipe suits any occasion.
• Easy to Follow: Simple steps ensure success for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
• Leftover Friendly: Leftovers are just as delicious and easy to reheat without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Pasta strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for searing steak bites evenly and making the garlic butter sauce efficiently.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures even cooking of your pasta shells, which is essential for the right texture.
• Knife and cutting board: These tools help you prepare your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)

How to Make How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer:
1. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until browned.
2. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium:
1. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
2. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Return steak bites to the pan and toss to coat them in garlic butter. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a separate pan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter and add minced garlic; sauté for 30 seconds.
2. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg.
4. Cook until thickened (about 2-3 minutes). If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add drained pasta shells into the creamy sauce:
1. Toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Plate creamy Parmesan shells alongside or mixed with garlic butter steak bites:
– Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Serving your steak bites creatively can elevate the dining experience. Consider these ideas to make your meal even more delightful and visually appealing.

Classic Plating

• Serve the steak bites next to a generous portion of creamy Parmesan pasta. This creates a beautiful contrast of colors on your plate.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh touch. This adds color and enhances the flavor of your dish.

Create a Steak Bites Skewers

• Thread the steak bites onto skewers for easy serving. Perfect for appetizers or casual gatherings, they are fun to eat!

Pair with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the steak and pasta. This adds freshness to your meal.

Use a Dipping Sauce

• Offer a garlic aioli or chimichurri on the side for dipping. It adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Serve in Mini Bowls

• For a more casual presentation, serve steak bites and pasta in small bowls or ramekins. Ideal for family style dining or potlucks.

How to Perfect How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

To achieve deliciously juicy steak bites, focus on these essential tips. They will help you master this recipe every time you cook it.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality cuts like sirloin or ribeye for tender results. The better the meat, the juicier the bites.

• Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Ensure your steak pieces are dry before adding seasoning. This helps achieve a perfect sear and prevents steaming.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature, leading to uneven cooking.

• Let Them Rest: After cooking, let your steak bites rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

• Adjust Seasonings as Needed: Taste your garlic butter sauce before serving. Adjust seasonings based on personal preference for optimal flavor.

• Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Complementing your juicy steak bites with tasty sides enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until golden adds color and nutrition to your dinner.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and creaminess that contrasts well with rich flavors.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs beautifully with garlic butter steak bites.

5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a fresh taste that balances out heavier dishes.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch, making it an excellent choice alongside rich steak meals.

7. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies is nutritious and light, complementing hearty flavors well.

8. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional benefits without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking steak bites can be a simple yet sophisticated dish, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking steak bites, it’s crucial not to overcrowd the skillet. This can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect golden crust.

• Not Patting the Steak Dry: If the steak is wet, it won’t sear properly. Always pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning them.

• Ignoring Rest Time: After removing the steak from the skillet, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring tender bites.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: For this recipe, using fresh garlic and good quality Parmesan will elevate the flavor significantly. Choose wisely for better results.

• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t underestimate seasoning! Properly seasoning your steak and pasta will enhance overall flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best taste.

Freezing How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

• Place cooled steak bites and pasta in separate freezer-safe containers.
• Enjoy within 2–3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread steak bites and pasta on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container. Cover loosely and heat in short bursts until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water for moisture, and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making juicy steak bites with garlic butter and Parmesan.

How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan without Overcooking?

To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or adjust according to your preference.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream as alternatives while maintaining creamy consistency in your sauce.

How Do I Customize the Seasoning?

Feel free to experiment with different spices like oregano or thyme. Just remember that adjusting spices can change the overall flavor profile of your dish!

Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?

Absolutely! While small pasta shells work well, any shape like penne or fettuccine can complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for juicy steak bites with garlic butter and Parmesan is both delicious and versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or trying different cheeses. Don’t hesitate—give it a go tonight!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Craving a gourmet experience right in your kitchen? Discover how to make juicy steak bites with garlic butter and Parmesan, an exquisite dish that balances tender beef morsels in a rich, buttery sauce with creamy pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and easy to follow, ensuring you impress your family or guests effortlessly. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain.
2. Pat the steak dry and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for about 2 minutes per side until browned; remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter and minced garlic; stir until fragrant. Return steak bites to coat in garlic butter.
5. For the creamy sauce, melt butter in another pan, sauté minced garlic, then add heavy cream and Parmesan until thickened.
6. Combine drained pasta with creamy sauce; serve alongside garlic butter steak bites.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing, Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg