3-Ingredient Steak Bites

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The kind of quick, irresistible dish my dad would throw together whenever company dropped by. It’s pure Midwestern hospitality: good beef seared hard, finished with garlic butter, and served sizzling. With just three ingredients and a hot skillet, you get juicy, browned bites that vanish almost as soon as they hit the platter—perfect for casual entertaining or a weeknight dinner.
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Pile them onto a warm platter with toothpicks or small forks so guests can help themselves. They pair beautifully with crisp sides like a green salad, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans. For something heartier, cauliflower mash or roasted florets soak up the garlic butter. A dry red wine (cabernet or malbec) or a light beer balances the richness, while pickles or marinated olives add a bright, briny contrast.
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3-Ingredient Steak Bites
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sirloin or ribeye steak | 1 ½ pounds | Trimmed, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Divided |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Finely minced |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | Optional |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Optional |
Directions
- Pat steak cubes very dry with paper towels so they sear instead of steam. Season with salt and pepper if using.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high until melted and just starting to brown.
- Add half the steak cubes in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Sear undisturbed for 1–2 minutes until deeply browned, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes to desired doneness.
- Transfer to a warm platter. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet, melt, and repeat with remaining steak cubes.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the last tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Stir constantly for 20–30 seconds until fragrant—do not let garlic brown.
- Pour hot garlic butter over steak bites, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately while sizzling and juicy.




