Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
An indulgent, easy-to-make dinner that brings restaurant flavor to your home kitchen

Introduction

Imagine juicy, seared steak bites coated in golden garlic butter, smothered with a rich, velvety parmesan cream sauce. Sounds like something off a steakhouse menu, right? This garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce recipe brings all that luxurious flavor to your dinner table in under 30 minutes—and all in one pan.

Perfect for date nights, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests, this dish is versatile, keto-friendly, and 100% satisfying. You’ll learn everything from picking the right steak cut to mastering the sauce that makes this recipe unforgettable.

Check out this slow cooker garlic butter steak version with potatoes if you want a hands-off variation!

Why Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Are So Popular

What Makes This Dish Irresistible

There’s something magical about the combination of sizzling steak, fragrant garlic butter, and rich cream sauce. The steak is seared for a golden-brown crust while staying juicy inside, and the parmesan sauce adds a creamy, umami-packed finish that clings to every bite.

Why people can’t get enough:

• One-pan recipe = fewer dishes
• Done in under 30 minutes
• Restaurant-quality results at home
• Crowd-pleasing flavor that works with multiple sides
• Naturally keto and low-carb-friendly

The Magic Combo: Garlic, Butter, Steak, and Parmesan Cream

This flavor quartet works because it balances richness and brightness:

• Garlic adds pungent depth and aroma
• Butter gives richness and smooth texture
• Steak brings umami and savory meatiness
• Parmesan cream sauce ties everything together with nutty saltiness and a silky mouthfeel

If you love bold, creamy, garlicky dishes, this is your ultimate steak night solution.

Don’t miss our classic crock pot version if you want to try a slow-cooked twist on the same flavor profile.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Choosing the Best Cut of Beef for Steak Bites

The quality of your steak bites starts with choosing the right cut of beef. For a melt-in-your-mouth result, go for cuts that have natural marbling and tenderness.

Top beef cuts for garlic butter steak bites:

Avoid tougher cuts like chuck or round—they’re better suited for braising or slow cooking.

Tip: Cut your steak into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and a perfect sear. Pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning to get that golden crust.

Essential Ingredients for the Garlic Butter and Cream Sauce

This dish is all about big flavor with simple ingredients. Here’s everything you need to create steakhouse-level results:

For the Steak Bites:

• 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or nutmeg for extra flavor

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Wilted spinach
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

This ingredient list is budget-friendly, uses staples you likely already have, and leaves plenty of room for variation.

Looking for creamy pairings? Try this Alfredo penne pasta recipe as a side dish or base under your steak bites for a rich, indulgent meal.

With quality beef and fresh, bold ingredients, you’re just minutes away from a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite bistro.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Preparing the Steak Bites for Searing

The key to juicy, flavorful steak bites lies in the prep. Take these steps before you even turn on the heat:

1. Trim and cut your steak.
   Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat or connective tissue. Cut the steak into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
2. Pat dry thoroughly.
   Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use paper towels to pat each steak piece dry—this is crucial for achieving that crisp, golden crust.
3. Season well.
   Toss the steak cubes with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can add a light sprinkle of garlic powder if you want to double down on that savory aroma.
4. Bring to room temperature.
   Let the seasoned steak sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly and prevents a cold center.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions with Sauce Integration

Now it’s time to fire up the skillet and bring everything together into one glorious pan of garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce.

1: Sear the steak bites

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the steak in a single layer—do not overcrowd. You may need to work in batches.
• Let them cook undisturbed for 1.5–2 minutes to develop a crust, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes.
• Remove from pan and set aside.

2: Make the garlic butter

• Lower heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter.
• Add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant (don’t burn it!).
• Return steak to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter.
• Remove from heat temporarily while making sauce.

3: Make the parmesan cream sauce

In the same pan or a separate saucepan:

• Melt 1 tbsp butter, then whisk in 1 tbsp flour (or almond flour for keto). Cook for 30–60 seconds to remove the raw flour taste.
• Slowly whisk in 1 cup heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in ½ cup grated parmesan, ½ tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Continue to stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and serve

• Return steak bites to the pan with the sauce or pour sauce over steak on the plate.
• Toss to coat thoroughly and garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or red pepper flakes.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side.

Looking for a spicier take on beef? Try our spicy halal beef stir fry for an international twist that’s just as bold and savory.

One skillet, one sauce, and endless flavor—this dish proves that you don’t need a culinary degree to create something unforgettable.

Cooking Tips for Juicy, Tender Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Temperature, Timing, and Searing Tips

Cooking garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce to perfection isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about technique. Even the best cut of meat can end up chewy or bland if you skip these pro-level steps.

Here’s how to get steakhouse-quality bites every time:

• Use high heat for searing. A hot skillet ensures a beautiful crust on the outside while locking in juices inside. Cast iron is ideal.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you dump in all the steak cubes at once, they’ll steam instead of sear. Work in small batches for that irresistible caramelized exterior.
• Let the meat rest. After searing and tossing in garlic butter, let your steak bites sit for 3–5 minutes before adding sauce or serving. This redistributes the juices and keeps them from leaking out when you cut into the meat.
• Watch the internal temp. For medium-rare to medium steak bites, aim for an internal temp of 135°F–145°F. A meat thermometer can be your best friend here.
• Cut against the grain. If you’re using a strip steak or larger piece to cube, always slice against the grain for a tender bite.

How to Avoid Overcooking or Dryness

Steak is quick to cook—and even quicker to overcook. Once it’s gone past medium-well, it becomes dry, chewy, and less flavorful.

Here’s how to keep it tender and juicy:

• Start with room temperature meat. Cold steak takes longer to cook and increases the risk of burning the outside while the inside stays underdone.
• Use oil with a high smoke point like canola, avocado, or clarified butter for the initial sear. This prevents burning and maintains the steak’s flavor.
• Sear, don’t stew. Avoid adding butter or liquids before the crust forms. The butter should be introduced after the sear for that signature garlic richness.
• Sauce timing matters. If you add the cream sauce too early, it can reduce too much or break. Keep the sauce and steak separate until the end, or add sauce right before serving.

For more hands-off methods, check out our slow cooker steak bites recipe where all the moisture stays locked in during the cook.

Once you understand these cooking fundamentals, your garlic butter steak bites will always hit the mark—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drenched in that heavenly parmesan cream.

Making the Parmesan Cream Sauce Like a Pro

Ingredients and Techniques for a Smooth, Creamy Sauce

The parmesan cream sauce is what sets this dish apart from basic garlic butter steak recipes. It adds a rich, cheesy depth that elevates each bite into pure indulgence. The key is balancing creaminess with flavor while keeping the sauce smooth and lump-free.

Must-have ingredients:

• Butter – Adds richness and starts the roux
• Flour – Helps thicken the sauce (sub almond flour for keto)
• Heavy Cream – Delivers the velvety texture you want
• Parmesan Cheese – Use freshly grated for better melt and stronger flavor
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory notes
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balance

Optional for a flavor twist:

• Dash of nutmeg for warmth
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat
• Small amount of white wine (reduce before adding cream)

How to make it perfectly:

1. In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 1 tablespoon flour and stir constantly for 30–60 seconds to form a roux.
3. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese and ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
6. Simmer on low until the sauce is creamy and coats the back of a spoon.
7. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Avoid boiling after adding cheese—too much heat will break the sauce.

Adjusting Sauce Thickness and Flavor

Not everyone likes their sauce the same way. Whether you prefer thick, luxurious cream or a thinner drizzle, here’s how to make quick adjustments:

Bonus tip: If you’re making the sauce in advance, let it cool slightly before storing. Reheat gently on low heat, whisking to smooth it out again.

Want more ideas for healthy indulgence? Try Emily Martinez’s Mounjaro-inspired recipe for creamy, low-carb flavor combos that complement steak beautifully.

With this sauce on hand, your steak bites become restaurant-level comfort food—creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and impossible to resist.

Flavor Variations and Add-ins for the Garlic Butter Steak Recipe

Mushroom, Spinach, and Pepper Additions

One of the best parts about garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce is how flexible the recipe is. You can easily transform this dish from a quick dinner to a gourmet experience just by adding a few flavorful ingredients.

Here are some popular and delicious add-ins to mix things up:

Sautéed Mushrooms

• Add sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms to the skillet after searing the steak.
• Cook them in butter until browned and tender, then mix them into the cream sauce.
• They bring an earthy, umami depth that complements the garlic and cheese beautifully.

Fresh Spinach

• Toss a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach into the parmesan cream sauce at the end.
• Let it wilt down gently for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• Great for lightening the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Bell Peppers or Roasted Red Peppers

• Add sautéed bell pepper strips (especially red or yellow for sweetness).
• Or chop up roasted red peppers and stir them into the sauce before serving.
• These add color, texture, and a bit of sweetness that balances the richness.

Spice and Cheese Blend Variations to Try

Want to kick it up a notch or customize the sauce to your personal taste? Here are a few creative variations:

Spicy Cajun Style

• Add ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the steak bites and a pinch to the cream sauce.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of parmesan for a spicy twist.

Italian Herb and Sun-Dried Tomato

• Mix in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce.
• Swap parmesan with a blend of asiago and mozzarella for an Italian-inspired twist.

Smoked Gouda and Thyme

• Replace half of the parmesan with smoked gouda for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Add ½ teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme for herbal balance.

Looking for meals that help communities too? Read about Boynton Soup Kitchen’s impact and discover how food can bring people together.

With endless ways to customize and elevate this steak dish, you’ll never get bored—and your guests will always be impressed.

Side Dishes to Serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Low-Carb, Keto, and Comfort Side Options

The creamy, rich flavor of garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes. Whether you’re aiming for low-carb comfort food or a more indulgent spread, there’s a perfect match for every occasion.

Here’s a breakdown of top sides to consider:

Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Sides

• Garlic Cauliflower Mash
  A creamy, garlicky mash that mimics potatoes without the carbs. Add a splash of cream and butter for richness.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
  Light, spiralized noodles sautéed in olive oil and tossed in extra parmesan.
• Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli
  Crisp-tender veggies roasted in olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Sprinkle with extra parmesan before serving.
• Cauliflower Rice
  Fluffy and neutral, perfect for soaking up that rich cream sauce without overpowering the steak.
• Green Beans Almondine
  Lightly sautéed green beans with slivered almonds and a squeeze of lemon. A bright, crunchy contrast.

Comfort Food Classics

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
  Rich and buttery, they pair beautifully with the savory steak and soak up every drop of sauce.
• Buttered Egg Noodles
  Simple and satisfying, they make a perfect bed for the steak bites and sauce.
• Cheesy Polenta or Grits
  Soft and creamy, with a mild flavor that lets the garlic butter steak shine.
• Macaroni and Cheese
  For ultra indulgence, serve the steak bites over creamy baked mac for a decadent combo.

Plating Tips for a Restaurant-Style Presentation

Want to take things up a notch? A little plating effort can make this dish look like it came out of a five-star kitchen.

Tips for gorgeous presentation:

• Spoon steak bites over mashed cauliflower or polenta, then drizzle with parmesan cream sauce.
• Use a white or dark matte plate to let the food colors pop.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, a sprinkle of fresh parmesan, and fresh cracked pepper.
• For elegance, stack steak cubes in the center and fan out the side dish beneath them.

Craving more meal inspiration? Try this creamy Alfredo penne pasta recipe if you want to double up on comfort food and turn this into a next-level surf-and-turf pasta bowl.

Whether you’re eating low-carb or pulling out all the stops for a steakhouse-style dinner, the right side makes all the difference—and these ideas guarantee your garlic butter steak bites will always steal the spotlight.

How to Store and Reheat Steak Bites and Sauce

Best Practices for Keeping Leftovers Tender and Saucy

Garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce are just as delicious the next day—if you store them properly. The key is preserving both the tenderness of the steak and the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Here’s how to keep everything fresh and flavorful:

• Cool before storing. Let the steak and sauce cool to room temperature before transferring to containers. Don’t leave it out longer than 2 hours.
• Use airtight containers. Store the steak and sauce together if you plan to reheat as a full meal. For better control, keep them separate so you can reheat each component at its ideal temperature.
• Add extra cream or broth. When storing sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream or chicken broth to prevent it from thickening too much or drying out.

Storage timelines:

Avoid freezing the cream sauce if possible—it can break and become grainy when reheated. If you must freeze, do so in a freezer-safe bag and reheat slowly with additional cream stirred in.

Freezing Tips and How to Reheat Without Separating the Sauce

How to Freeze Steak Bites (Only):

• Portion cooked and cooled steak bites into freezer bags.
• Remove as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and use within 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips for the Best Texture:

For the steak bites:

• Reheat in a skillet with a touch of butter or oil over medium heat for 3–5 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to warm through without overcooking.

For the sauce:

• Reheat in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
• Add a splash of cream or milk to smooth it out.
• Avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese to break and the sauce to become oily or gritty.

Microwave option:

• Use medium power and stir every 30 seconds. Cover loosely with a paper towel.
• Add a spoon of cream or broth before heating to maintain moisture.

Meal prepping for the week? Learn about Emily Martinez’s high-protein recipe system for ideas that complement these steak bites and help keep your meals balanced.

With smart storage and gentle reheating, your leftovers will taste nearly as good as when they were fresh—perfect for quick lunches or a repeat dinner with no extra effort.

Is This Recipe Family-Friendly and Meal Prep Approved?

Serving Suggestions for Kids and Picky Eaters

Absolutely—garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce are a huge hit with families, even picky eaters. The flavor is rich but approachable, the texture is tender, and there’s no strange seasoning that kids will turn away from. Plus, the creamy parmesan sauce can turn even steak skeptics into fans.

Ways to make it more family-friendly:

• Serve sauce on the side: Let kids dip steak bites instead of smothering them—this gives them control.
• Use smaller steak cubes: Bite-sized pieces are easier for young kids to eat and feel less intimidating.
• Pair with familiar sides: Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles are safe, kid-approved bases.
• Skip the spice: If your sauce variation includes red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning, hold it back in portions for children.

Want a crowd-pleasing twist? Try our slow-cooked garlic butter steak bites with potatoes—they’re softer, fork-tender, and great for young eaters or meal prep.

How to Batch-Cook for the Week

This dish is an excellent addition to your meal prep rotation. It reheats beautifully and pairs well with a variety of sides you can rotate throughout the week.

Meal Prep Strategy:

• Cook double portions of steak and store half for lunches or dinners.
• Make the sauce separately in a large batch and refrigerate in a jar.
• Pair with different sides each day: cauliflower rice, pasta, sautéed veggies, or mashed potatoes.
• Use leftovers in wraps, steak bowls, or even over a salad for a high-protein lunch.

Meal Prep Tip: Keep sauce and steak bites in separate containers to preserve texture during reheating. Mix just before eating.

Looking to save money on meal prep? Check out this affordable recipe guide for more flavor-packed protein ideas that stretch your grocery dollars.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Can I use a different type of cream or cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. For a richer texture, try cream cheese blended with a splash of milk. As for the cheese, asiago, Romano, or gruyère make great substitutes for parmesan, adding slightly different flavor profiles while still keeping the creamy texture.

What’s the best steak cut for garlic butter steak bites?

The best steak cuts for tenderness and flavor are:

• Sirloin – affordable, tender, lean
• Ribeye – rich, well-marbled, juicy
• New York Strip – firm and flavorful
• Tenderloin – ultra-tender, cooks quickly

Avoid tougher cuts like flank or chuck for this quick-sear recipe.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or keto?

Yes! For dairy-free:

• Use plant-based butter and coconut or oat cream
• Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese

For keto:

• It’s already low in carbs. Just swap all-purpose flour for almond or coconut flour in the sauce
• Stick to heavy cream and freshly grated cheese for the lowest carb count

How do I thicken the Parmesan cream sauce without flour?

If you’re avoiding flour, try one of these:

• Almond flour or coconut flour – a 1:1 swap
• Xanthan gum – use just a pinch to thicken
• Reduce the sauce longer on the stove
• Add more grated parmesan – it naturally thickens as it melts

What’s the best wine pairing for this steak and cream combo?

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Cabernet Sauvignon – bold, full-bodied, complements the richness
• Chardonnay (oaked) – creamy, buttery notes match the sauce
• Merlot – smooth, with enough depth to stand up to steak

Prefer a white wine? Choose something rich and dry to balance the fat from the butter and cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce aren’t just a recipe—they’re a full-on dining experience. From the crispy, seared steak cubes to the rich, velvety cheese sauce, this dish delivers bold flavor, comfort, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for date night, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something satisfying after a long day, this recipe covers all the bases.

The best part? It’s done in one pan, in under 30 minutes, with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Toss in some mushrooms, serve it with cauliflower mash or pasta, and you’ve got a steakhouse-worthy dinner without ever leaving your kitchen.

Discover great pasta pairing ideas like this Alfredo penne pasta recipe or keep it casual with a side of roasted veggies or mashed potatoes. However you plate it, these steak bites always impress.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping dinner simple, this recipe is your new go-to. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

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• Author: Asmaa Nour
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Juicy, tender steak bites seared in garlic butter and smothered in a rich, creamy parmesan sauce. A one-pan, 30-minute meal that feels gourmet but cooks up quick. Perfect for weeknight dinners, keto diets, or entertaining guests with bold flavor and easy cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Steak Bites:

• 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1 cup fresh spinach

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Prepare Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Sear Steak Bites: In a hot skillet, add olive oil. Sear steak in a single layer for 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. Make Garlic Butter: Reduce heat, add 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant. Return steak to skillet and toss in garlic butter.

4. Make Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add flour and whisk 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, garlic powder, and parmesan. Cook until thickened (3–5 mins).

5. Combine & Serve: Pour sauce over steak bites or return steak to pan with sauce. Stir to coat. Garnish with herbs if desired.

Notes

• Sear steak in batches to avoid overcrowding.

• Don’t boil the cream sauce after adding cheese—it can break.

• For reheating, warm sauce gently with a splash of cream to restore smoothness.

• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; freeze steak separately if needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet / One-pan
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ~6 oz steak with sauce
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 39g
• Cholesterol: 135mg