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First things first, grab your sirloin steak and cut it into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This is where the "bites" part comes in, obviously! Then, and this is super crucial, pat them *really* dry with paper towels. Seriously, don't skip this step. If your steak is wet, it'll steam instead of sear, and you won't get that beautiful brown crust we’re after. I always make sure they're bone dry, or I know I'm setting myself up for a less-than-stellar sear. This little detail makes all the difference for tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
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Next, toss those dry steak bites in a bowl with a good drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix it all up with your hands, making sure every single piece is coated evenly. You want that seasoning to be everywhere! Don't be afraid to season, because this is where a lot of the flavor for your Garlic Butter Steak Bites comes from. I always think, "if it looks like too much, it's probably just right." This step is key for a flavorful result, trust me.
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Now, get a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron if you have one, screaming hot over medium-high heat. Add another tablespoon of olive oil and let it shimmer. You want that pan to be really, really hot before any steak touches it. This is how you achieve that incredible, restaurant-quality sear. I've definitely thrown steak into a lukewarm pan before, and it was a disaster—no crust, just sad, gray meat. Learn from my mistake, a hot pan is your friend!
04 -
Add the seasoned steak bites to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. This is where I messed up that one Tuesday! If you put too many in, the temperature drops, and you won't get a good sear. Work in batches if you need to. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until they're beautifully browned and crusty. You’ll see that lovely caramelization forming, and honestly, the smell is just divine. Flip them and sear on the other sides for another 1-2 minutes until they're cooked to your liking. This creates the perfect texture for your Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
05 -
Once your steak bites are seared, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme to the pan. Let the butter melt and the garlic become fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. Tilt the pan and spoon that glorious garlic butter mixture over the steak bites repeatedly for another minute or so. This basting really infuses every piece with incredible flavor. I love watching the butter bubble and sizzle, knowing all that goodness is getting absorbed. Don't let the garlic burn, though; that's another oops moment I've had!
06 -
Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Garlic Butter Steak Bites to a plate or cutting board. Let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is super important; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making them incredibly tender and juicy. While they rest, you can sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if you’re feeling fancy. Then, serve them immediately! They look so inviting with that golden crust and fresh green herbs. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Garlic Butter Steak Bites!