Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with my Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce! This dish combines juicy steak bites with a rich, creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow me as I guide you through each easy step. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this tasty delight!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb tenderloin steak

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Garnishing

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce. The tenderloin steak is the star. It is juicy and cooks quickly, perfect for bite-sized pieces. Butter adds richness and helps the garlic infuse flavor into the dish.

Garlic is essential here. Minced garlic brings warmth and aroma. Heavy cream creates a smooth, creamy sauce. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor and thickens the sauce.

Season your steak with thyme and smoked paprika. These spices enhance the meat’s natural taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper! They balance the flavors and bring everything together.

Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Steak

To start, we need to sear the steak bites. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. While the butter melts, season the steak pieces with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. This mix gives a great flavor base.

Once the butter is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a nice browning. If you crowd the pan, the steak won’t cook well. You may need to do this in batches. After cooking, set the steak aside on a plate.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

Next, we make the garlic butter sauce. In the same skillet, add the other 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not burnt.

Creating the Cream Sauce

Now, we’ll create the cream sauce. Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir it constantly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it melts completely. Check the taste and add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.

Combining Ingredients

Finally, it’s time to combine everything. Add the seared steak bites back into the skillet. Make sure they are well coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Heat everything together for an extra minute. Now, you have a delicious dish ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Steak to Perfection

To cook steak bites just right, focus on doneness. Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 145°F for medium. A quick check will ensure your steak is juicy and tender.

Avoid overcrowding the pan. If you add too many pieces at once, they will steam instead of sear. This can lead to less flavor. Cook in batches to get that beautiful crust on each bite.

Enhancing Flavor

Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. I love adding a bit of fresh thyme or parsley. These herbs add a burst of flavor that pairs well with the steak.

Adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you like it spicy, add more smoked paprika or even some crushed red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Presentation Suggestions

Serve your steak bites in a rustic bowl or on a nice plate. This adds a warm touch to your meal. For an extra pop, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top.

Garnish with fresh parsley leaves for color. It not only looks good but also adds fresh flavor. Pair your dish with crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. Enjoy the meal!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch up the cut of steak for this dish. While tenderloin works great, you can use sirloin or ribeye. These cuts add different flavors and textures. If you want a leaner option, try flank steak. Each cut gives you a unique taste.

You can also use different cheeses. While Parmesan brings a rich flavor, you can try Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite. Another option is to use a mix of cheeses. Combining mozzarella or cheddar can add creaminess. Experiment with what you have on hand to find your favorite mix.

Sauce Variations

To change the flavor profile, add some spices or herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor. You can also use Italian seasoning for an herby twist.

If you like it spicy, try adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you can control the heat and find the perfect balance for your palate.

Side Dish Pairings

This dish pairs well with many sides. Creamy mashed potatoes complement the sauce perfectly. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy side. A simple salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

When it comes to drinks, a glass of red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, works well. It enhances the flavors of the steak. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your garlic butter steak bites fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. They last up to three days. When you store them, make sure they cool down first. This helps avoid extra moisture.

If you want to freeze them, put the steak bites in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. Remember to label the bag with the date.

Reheating Instructions

For the best flavor and texture, reheat your steak bites on the stove. Place them in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Heat for about five minutes. Stir often to ensure even heating.

You can also use the microwave, but it may dry them out. If you do, heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check often, and stir between intervals. To keep the creamy sauce intact, add a bit of cream when reheating. This will help maintain its rich flavor.

FAQs

What is the best steak for this recipe?

The best steak for garlic butter steak bites is tenderloin. Tenderloin is soft, juicy, and cooks quickly. Other good options include sirloin or ribeye. Both of these cuts have great flavor and texture. Choose a steak that has nice marbling. This helps keep the meat tender while cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep some parts ahead. Cut the steak into pieces and season them in advance. You can also make the garlic butter and cream sauce early. Store them in the fridge. Then, when you are ready to cook, just heat the sauce and add the steak bites. This saves time and keeps it fresh.

How do I adjust the spice levels?

To adjust spice levels, change the amount of smoked paprika. If you want less heat, use less paprika. You can also add more for extra flavor. Taste the sauce as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for the perfect balance.

This blog post covered a tasty tenderloin steak recipe with a creamy garlic butter sauce. You learned how to prepare the steak, make the sauce, and combine the flavors. Remember the tips for perfect cooking and presentation. You can also explore ingredient swaps and variations to keep things fun. Try out new sides to pair with your dish. With these insights, you can create a delicious meal that impresses every time. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with flavors!