Description
This Garlic Herb Steak Bites recipe features tender sirloin steak chunks seasoned and cooked in a hot skillet with aromatic garlic, fresh thyme, and rich butter. Perfectly seared to develop a flavorful crust, these steak bites are finished with fresh parsley and flaky sea salt for an irresistible appetizer or main dish that comes together in under an hour.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
Finishing
- Chopped fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley
- Flaky sea salt
- Coarsely ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Season the steak and rest for flavor: Place the sirloin steak chunks on a baking sheet and sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon Kosher salt. Toss the pieces to ensure they are well-coated, then arrange them in an even layer. Let the steak rest uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to enhance flavor and texture.
- Toss with oil and cook in a hot pan: Drizzle the steak chunks with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Heat a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add the steak in an even layer without overcrowding the pan. Season with 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning the pieces to brown all sides and ensuring they release easily from the pan. Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Add the butter, garlic, and thyme to the skillet: Create space on one side of the skillet and add 3 tablespoons butter, the sliced garlic, and fresh thyme sprigs. Tilt the pan to pool the melted butter with garlic and thyme. Move the steak bites through this aromatic butter mixture to coat them thoroughly.
- Transfer to a serving plate and garnish: Remove the steak bites from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter mixture over the top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, flaky sea salt, and coarsely ground black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Resting the steak uncovered in the fridge helps dry out the surface, promoting better searing.
- Use a heavy skillet, like cast iron, for optimal heat retention and browning.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to avoid steaming the meat.
- Adjust cooking time depending on desired doneness; these cook quickly due to small chunk size.
- Fresh thyme and garlic infused in the butter greatly enhance flavor—do not rush this step.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
