If you’re anything like me and love a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that feels a little fancy but comes together quickly, then you’re going to adore my Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe. This dish combines juicy, tender steak bites bathed in a rich garlic butter, perched on top of creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, and all smothered in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that’s both comforting and indulgent, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Stick around—I promise this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy and Satisfying: You’ll have dinner on the table in just about 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights when you want something special.
- Bold Garlic and Parmesan Flavors: The garlic butter and parmesan cream sauce pack layers of flavor that any steak lover will appreciate.
- Versatile and Family Friendly: You can swap out your favorite steak cuts or tweak the spice level to suit your crew’s taste buds.
- Impress Without Stress: It looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, but you won’t need to spend hours or have fancy skills to pull it off.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a crucial role in creating layers of rich, indulgent flavor. I love using avocado oil because it withstands high heat, which is perfect for searing those steak bites to a golden crust. And the blend of seasonings? It makes all the difference, trust me.
- Steak (filet, ribeye, or sirloin): Choose a tender cut with good marbling for the juiciest bites.
- Avocado oil: High smoke point makes it perfect for searing the steak without burning.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps build that luscious garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh is best here for maximum flavor in the garlic butter and sauce.
- Heavy cream: Key for the creamy parmesan sauce that ties it all together.
- Green onions: Add a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color.
- Red pepper flakes: Bring just the right amount of heat—adjust to your taste.
- Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce, offering that unmistakably sharp, savory flavor.
- Russet potatoes: Perfect for creamy mashed potatoes that won’t become gummy.
- Half and half: Lightens up the mashed potatoes and adds creaminess without heaviness.
- Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully into the potatoes for extra gooeyness.
- Seasonings (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, oregano): Together, they build a smoky, savory, slightly spicy blackened seasoning that transforms the steak bites.
Variations
I love how adaptable this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe is. Over time, I’ve played with adding my own twists depending on the mood or occasion, and it’s fun to make it your own.
- Spicy Kick: Sometimes I like to add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for heat lovers in the house.
- Herb Swap: Instead of thyme and oregano, fresh rosemary or parsley can brighten things up beautifully.
- Dairy-Free Version: I’ve tried using coconut cream and vegan butter with good results if you’re looking to avoid dairy.
- Protein Swap: Occasionally, I’ll use chicken thighs instead of steak—adjust cook time accordingly.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Steak and Potatoes Like a Pro
Start by cutting your steak into 2 to 3-inch pieces—you want them bite-sized but not too small or they’ll overcook fast. Rub the pieces evenly with avocado oil, then generously coat them with the blackened seasoning mix (that’s the smoky, spicy blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs). Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This is a game-changer because it helps the steak cook evenly and develop a better crust. Meanwhile, peel and quarter your potatoes, soaking them in cold water for 10 minutes to wash away excess starch—this helps your mashed potatoes stay fluffy, not gluey.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Until Perfectly Tender
Drain the soaking water and boil your potatoes in salted water. You want them fork-tender, easy to pierce but still holding shape well. This usually takes about 15 minutes. While the potatoes cook, you can focus on getting those steak bites seared to perfection.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites with Garlic Butter Magic
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in 2 to 3 tablespoons of avocado oil. You want the pan hot so the steak gets a beautiful golden crust without steaming. Add the steak pieces in batches—don’t crowd the pan or they’ll release moisture and won’t brown properly. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then flip just once. Cook for another minute, then turn the heat to low and sear for an additional minute to get them cooked through but still juicy. Remove steak and set aside. Now add 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to that pan—the smell will instantly fill your kitchen. Toss the steak back in for one minute to coat every piece in garlicky buttery goodness, then remove to a bowl and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In that same skillet with all the leftover flavor from steak and garlic butter, melt 2 more tablespoons of butter and add the remaining minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Toss in the red pepper flakes and green onions for a pop of heat and freshness. Stir in the parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce is silky and rich. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed—you’ll find that the sauce balances savory, creamy, and a hint of spice.
Step 5: Mash the Potatoes with Cheese and Cream
Drain your potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Pour in the warm half and half and melted salted butter, then mash until smooth but still a little rustic (I like a bit of texture). Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the mash. Mix until everything’s incorporated and the cheese melts into those clouds of potatoes. This is the perfect base for your garlic butter steak bites and creamy sauce to sing on.
Step 6: Plate & Serve Your Masterpiece
Spoon a generous helping of cheesy mashed potatoes onto each plate, pile on those beautiful garlic butter steak bites, and drizzle the warm parmesan cream sauce over the top. Every bite should be a balance of textures and flavors—creamy, cheesy, garlicky, with just a bit of spice. I promise your family and friends will be raving about this one.
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Let the Steak Rest: Allowing the steak bites to sit at room temp before cooking helps them sear better and stay tender.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook steak in batches to get that perfect crust instead of steaming the meat.
- Use Warm Dairy Ingredients: Warm your half and half before adding to potatoes to keep everything smooth and creamy.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Especially for the sauce, where a pinch more salt or pepper makes all the difference.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a sucker for fresh green onion slices sprinkled on top—it adds such a lovely color contrast and a mild oniony crunch that lifts the richness. Sometimes I throw on chopped fresh parsley or a little shaved extra parmesan for that restaurant-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty much a full meal on its own, but occasionally I add a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery, bright counterpoint. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic green beans also complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to serve the steak bites on a warm wooden board with small ramekins of the parmesan sauce on the side, letting guests drizzle as they like. Another time, I layered the mashed potatoes in a cast-iron skillet, topped with steak bites and sauce, then broiled it for a minute for a golden crust on top—it was a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The steak bites remain tender, and the potatoes keep their creaminess if you reheat carefully. I recommend separating the sauce if possible to avoid it thickening too much in the fridge.
Freezing
I’ve frozen the steak bites and mashed potatoes separately with decent results. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave. The sauce doesn’t always freeze well, so I usually make it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheating low and slow on the stovetop helps maintain moisture and prevents the steak from getting tough. For mashed potatoes, a splash of warm milk or half and half and a gentle stir helps revive their creaminess.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I prefer tender cuts like filet, ribeye, or sirloin for their juicy texture, you can use almost any steak you like. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts might cook faster and benefit from a little extra butter for moisture.
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How spicy is the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe?
The spice level mostly comes from the red pepper flakes and cayenne in the blackened seasoning. You can easily adjust it to your preference—use less for mild flavor or add more if you love heat.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check that your seasonings and cheeses don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
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What’s the best way to get a good crust on the steak bites?
Make sure your pan is hot before adding the steak, use avocado oil or another high smoke point oil, and don’t crowd the pan—sear the steak in batches if needed. Let the steak sit undisturbed to develop that golden crust before flipping.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe truly feels like a special meal without demanding a ton of effort, which is why I keep coming back to it. It hits all those cozy, indulgent notes with garlic, butter, parmesan, and a little spice, making it a total crowd-pleaser every time I pull it out. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how you customize it or what sides you pair it with—it’s one of those dishes that invites a little cooking adventure. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be a staple in your recipe rotation just like it is in mine!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce recipe features tender steak pieces seasoned with bold blackened spices, sautéed in fragrant garlic butter, and served over creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. The dish is completed with a rich parmesan cream sauce infused with scallions and red pepper flakes, creating a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 lbs steak (filet, ribeye, sirloin, etc)
- 4-5 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Garlic Butter and Cream Sauce
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided
- 10 cloves garlic, minced and divided
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 2 green onions, diced (green and white parts)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated/shredded/shaved
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 lbs russet potatoes
- 1 cup half and half, warmed
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (or mozzarella, pepper jack, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Cut the steak into 2-3 inch pieces. Rub the steak evenly with avocado oil, then season all sides generously with the blackened seasoning mixture (smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano). Let the steak sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take off the chill while you prepare the potatoes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and quarter the russet potatoes. Place them in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and transfer the potatoes to a pot of salted water. Boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes, while you cook the steak.
- Cook the Steak: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, allowing a good golden crust to develop. Flip once and cook for another 1 minute. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 1 minute. Remove steak bites from the skillet and place in a bowl.
- Sauté Garlic Butter with Steak: In the same pan, add 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter, coating evenly and cooking for another minute. Remove the steak and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce: Using the same pan with buttery garlic remnants, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the remaining minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in red pepper flakes, diced scallions, and parmesan cheese. Whisk until the sauce thickens further and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Add melted butter, warmed half and half, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese to the potatoes. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy with no large chunks remaining.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy mashed potatoes, top with garlic butter steak bites, then generously spoon the parmesan cream sauce over the top. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Cajun-inspired steak bites with aromatic garlic butter create a rich and flavorful protein base for this dish.
- The parmesan cream sauce adds decadence and ties the components together with a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Using avocado oil for searing ensures a higher smoke point and better crust formation on the steak.
- Allowing the steak to rest at room temperature before cooking leads to more even cooking and better texture.
- Boiling potatoes in salted water and soaking beforehand helps achieve perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spice for the cream sauce.
- This dish serves 4 people and makes for an indulgent yet approachable dinner option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
