How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

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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 your answer! This dish features perfectly seared steak bites tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy Parmesan pasta. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. With its combination of flavors and textures, it stands out as an indulgent yet easy-to-make dinner option.

How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Rich Flavor: The garlic butter and Parmesan sauce create a deliciously rich experience that elevates the steak bites.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course for family dinners or impress guests at gatherings.
  • Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust spices and ingredients based on personal preferences.
  • Leftover Friendly: Reheat any leftovers easily without sacrificing flavor, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything at hand will streamline the process and ensure you enjoy making this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large skillet: Ideal for searing steak evenly and creating the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
  • Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that the pasta cooks properly while freeing up space on your stovetop.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
How

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 with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and 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. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

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

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the creamy Parmesan shells with garlic butter steak bites on either side or mixed together. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Now you’re ready to indulge in these juicy steak bites paired with creamy pasta! Enjoy your delicious creation!

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

Serving your juicy steak bites with garlic butter and Parmesan is just as important as cooking them perfectly. The right presentation and accompaniments can elevate this dish to a new level. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Serve on a Platter

  • Arrange the steak bites on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This encourages sharing and creates an inviting atmosphere.

Pair with Garlic Bread

  • Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side. The crispy texture complements the tender steak bites while adding another layer of flavor.

Create a Pasta Bowl

  • For a more casual presentation, mix the steak bites directly into the creamy Parmesan pasta. This makes it easy for guests to serve themselves and enjoy every bite together.

Add Fresh Salad

  • A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the steak and pasta. Consider including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for freshness.

Offer Dipping Sauces

  • Set out small bowls of dipping sauces like chimichurri or a balsamic reduction. This adds an interactive element and allows guests to customize their flavors.

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

Perfecting your juicy steak bites involves attention to detail in both cooking techniques and ingredient choices. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

  • Choose the Right Cut: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip for juicy steak bites that are full of flavor.
  • Pat Dry Before Cooking: Always pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve a good sear by reducing moisture.
  • Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. A high temperature allows for quick browning while keeping the inside tender.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
  • Let It Rest: Allow your cooked steak bites to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute juices for maximum flavor.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water gradually to adjust the creamy Parmesan sauce’s thickness until it coats the pasta perfectly.

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

Complementing your juicy steak bites with delicious side dishes can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.

  1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil and roast until tender.
  2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes made with butter and cream provide a comforting contrast to the savory steak.
  3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness without overpowering the main dish.
  4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brushed with herb butter offers sweet flavors that pair well with savory steak bites.
  5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the richness of both steak and creamy pasta.
  6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese adds a healthy touch to your meal.
  7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender provide a sweet contrast that balances out savory flavors beautifully.
  8. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, making it an excellent side that contrasts nicely with hearty dishes like steak bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking game. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making juicy steak bites.

  • Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the steak dry can lead to steaming instead of searing. Always dry the steak with paper towels before seasoning.
  • Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many steak bites at once can lower the pan’s temperature, preventing a good sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your steak bites adequately can result in bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously before cooking.
  • Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Overcooking pasta can ruin its texture. Follow the package instructions closely to achieve al dente pasta.
  • Rushing the Garlic Butter: Cooking garlic too quickly can make it bitter. Sauté on medium heat and watch it closely for perfect flavor.
  • Not Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, it may not coat the pasta well. Use reserved pasta water to thin it as needed.
How

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

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

  • Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to containers.
  • Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

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

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warm.
  • Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about how to make juicy steak bites with garlic butter & Parmesan.

Can I use different types of meat?

You can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What type of pasta works best?

Small shells or any pasta that holds sauce well are great choices for this recipe.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or adjust according to your preference.

Can I customize the garlic butter sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

How long will the leftovers last?

In the refrigerator, they will be good for 3-4 days stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for juicy steak bites with garlic butter & Parmesan is both indulgent and simple, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s versatile too! Customize it with your favorite herbs or cheeses for a unique twist. Give it a try and impress your family and friends!

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

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How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? This recipe for Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan is the perfect solution! In under 30 minutes, you can whip up tender steak bites seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this indulgent yet easy-to-make dinner option is bursting with flavor and texture. Get ready to elevate your dining experience right from your kitchen!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz small pasta shells
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Pat steak dry; season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear steak for about 2 minutes per side until browned; remove from skillet.
  4. Lower heat to medium; add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then return steak to coat in garlic butter.
  5. In another pan, melt remaining butter; sauté garlic for 30 seconds before adding heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese and seasonings; cook until thickened.
  6. Toss cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well-coated; serve with steak bites on top.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing and Sauce Preparation
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 629
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 643mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 112mg

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