If you’re craving a dinner that’s bold, buttery, and bursting with flavor, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites in Creamy Lemon Sauce are your perfect go-to. Juicy, seared steak pieces smothered in a rich, garlicky butter and finished with a zesty lemon cream sauce—this one-pan wonder brings gourmet taste to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.
🥩 Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites in Creamy Lemon Sauce
the steak bites:
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1.5 lbs (700 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon sea salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the creamy lemon sauce:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream (or cooking cream)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed sauté pan
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Sharp knife for cutting steak
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Cutting board
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Mixing bowl (for seasoning)
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Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
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Lemon zester and juicer
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Measuring spoons and cups
How to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Lemon Sauce (Step-by-Step)
1: Prepare the steak
Pat your steak pieces dry with paper towels to ensure they sear well. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let them rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
2: Sear the steak bites
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. When melted and foamy, add the steak bites in a single layer—avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3: Make the garlic butter base
In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn.
4: Prepare the creamy lemon sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir continuously. Add Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens (about 3–5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5: Combine and finish
Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, just enough to warm the steak through without overcooking.
6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Steak Bites Every Time
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Use room-temperature steak: Cold steak won’t sear well and could become tough.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
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Deglaze with flavor: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth before adding cream for extra depth.
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Balance the lemon: If your lemon is extra tangy, adjust by adding a little more cream or a teaspoon of honey.
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Finish with flair: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or grated lemon zest before serving enhances aroma and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings)
Nutrient | Amount |
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Calories | ~540 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 6 g |
Fat | 42 g |
Saturated Fat | 22 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Sugar | 2 g |
Sodium | 400 mg |
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: Done in under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknights.
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One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, more flavor.
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Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love these creamy garlic butter steak bites.
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Restaurant Flavor at Home: Impress your guests without breaking the bank.
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Flexible: Works well with chicken or shrimp for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Lemon-butter asparagus
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Steamed broccoli
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Herbed couscous or orzo
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy sauce
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Steak Dinner
Whether it’s for a romantic dinner, a dinner party, or just a regular Tuesday, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites in creamy lemon sauce hit every mark—rich, savory, zesty, and satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients meets gourmet flavor in the best way. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.