- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Cost per Serving: ~$3.50
- Calories per Serving: ~420 kcal
- Servings: 4
Let me just say — Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce might be one of the most indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly simple dinners you’ll ever make. Think juicy, tender steak bites seared in garlicky butter, then smothered in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce that tastes like it came from a fancy steakhouse. But the best part? You can make the whole thing in under 30 minutes, right in your own kitchen.
This is one of those “treat yourself” kind of meals that somehow feels doable, even on a Tuesday night. I first made it on a whim during a snowstorm when we couldn’t go out — and now, it’s become our cozy go-to when we need something special without the fuss.
Whether you serve it with crusty bread, over creamy mashed potatoes, or straight from the skillet (guilty!), this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with flavor.
Table of Contents
What Makes Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce So Good?
I always choose high-quality sirloin steak, ideally grass-fed when possible, because the flavor is just so much better. It’s naturally more tender, juicier, and doesn’t need a lot of fuss to shine. I grew up in a home where my mom believed in buying better meat and making it stretch with comforting sauces and sides — that stuck with me.
What makes this parmesan garlic steak bites recipe really stand out is that it feels like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant, but it’s made with pantry staples and only a few fresh ingredients. The garlic butter brings a deep, savory richness, and then that Parmesan cream sauce? Oh my goodness — it’s cozy, creamy, and full of flavor without being heavy.
I also love how versatile it is. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or even a simple bowl of sautéed greens or cauliflower mash. My kids love it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce (honestly, I do too!).
And let’s not forget — this recipe is perfect for busy moms who want to cook something warm and special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s rich, satisfying, and always gets rave reviews around our table.
Sometimes the best meals aren’t the ones with the longest ingredient list… they’re the ones that just work — and this one definitely does.
How to make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Ingredients Breakdown
Sirloin steak: I used sirloin because it’s lean, tender, and cooks quickly — perfect for bite-sized steak pieces. You can also use ribeye or strip steak if you prefer a richer cut. Just make sure to cut it evenly so everything cooks at the same time.
Salt and black pepper: A classic combo to season the steak simply but beautifully. I go with freshly ground pepper for that little extra bite.
Unsalted butter: I use unsalted to control the salt level myself — two tablespoons for searing the steak and two more for the creamy sauce. If you only have salted butter, just ease up on the added salt.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds amazing depth to both the steak and the cream sauce. I love garlic, so I use two cloves for each step — but feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and velvety. I don’t recommend subbing with milk, but half-and-half can work in a pinch (just know the sauce will be a bit thinner).
Parmesan cheese: I always grate it fresh — it melts better and gives the sauce that sharp, nutty flavor. Pre-shredded Parmesan won’t melt as smoothly, so if you can, go fresh!
Italian seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme — it gives the sauce a warm, herby base without overpowering the dish.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch for a gentle kick. Totally skip it if you’re cooking for little ones (or add more if you’re like me and want just a bit of heat .
Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of green and freshness at the end. I like sprinkling some over the top right before serving.
To serve: This sauce is begging to be soaked up — so I love serving it with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes. Pasta or rice works too if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Sear the Steak Bites
Season the steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot and shimmering, add the steak in a single layer. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Add the minced garlic during the last 30 seconds, stirring quickly so it doesn’t burn. Remove the steak bites and set aside.
2: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3: Bring it All Together
Return the steak bites (and any juices!) back into the pan. Stir gently to coat them in that luscious sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with mashed potatoes or bread.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe Tips
These little tips can make all the difference — especially when time (and patience) is limited :
- Let the steak come to room temp before cooking – This helps it sear more evenly and get that golden crust without overcooking the inside. I usually take it out about 20 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – If you add too much steak at once, it’ll steam instead of sear. Cook it in two batches if needed — it’s worth it for that nice browned exterior!
- Use a hot skillet – You want that butter bubbling and the pan hot enough so the steak gets a quick, flavorful sear. Cast iron works beautifully here.
- Add garlic at the end of the steak cooking time – Garlic can burn quickly in hot butter. Toss it in during the last 30 seconds just to release its aroma.
- Freshly grate the Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese has added starches that can make the sauce grainy. A block of Parmesan and a grater make all the difference.
- Don’t boil the sauce – A gentle simmer is all you need. If you boil it, the cream might separate or the sauce can become too thick.
- Taste as you go – The Parmesan adds saltiness, so wait until the end before adjusting the salt in the sauce.
- Make it a meal – Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even spoon it over pasta. A side of roasted green beans or steamed broccoli is great too!
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce is rich and creamy, so pair it with simple sides to balance it out:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – Comfort food heaven.
- Roasted veggies – Like broccoli or asparagus.
- Crusty baguette – To mop up every last drop of sauce.
- Low-carb option? Serve it over sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Cast Iron Skillet
A good-quality cast iron skillet is key for getting that perfect sear on your steak bites. It holds heat beautifully and helps develop that golden crust we all love. I use mine several times a week — total kitchen MVP! - Flat Silicone Whisk
For the Parmesan cream sauce, a flat silicone whisk helps you stir without scratching your pan. It’s perfect for combining the cream, butter, and cheese smoothly without clumps.
FAQ about Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! While I love sirloin for its balance of tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribeye, New York strip, or even filet mignon if you’re feeling fancy. Just avoid tougher cuts like stew meat, which need longer cook times.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead (cut the steak, grate the cheese, mince the garlic), but I recommend cooking it fresh — the steak bites taste best right off the pan, and the sauce is creamiest when just made.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Avoid using regular milk, as it may curdle or not thicken properly. For a thicker result with lighter cream, you can add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch.
Can I make it low carb or keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Serve the steak bites with cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, or sautéed spinach instead of potatoes or bread. The sauce itself is naturally low in carbs.
Can I add mushrooms or spinach?
Totally! Sauté sliced mushrooms after the steak and before the sauce for a delicious earthy flavor. Baby spinach can be stirred into the cream sauce at the end until just wilted.
What sides go best with this?
Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, roasted green veggies, or pasta all work beautifully. Check out the Perfect Pairings section above for all my favorites!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce are seared to juicy perfection and served with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. A 25-minute skillet dinner that tastes like something out of a restaurant, but is simple enough for busy weeknights. Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a meal that’s comforting, creamy, and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
For the steak bites:
1 pound (450g) sirloin steak, diced into small, bite-sized cubes
Sea salt and cracked black pepper, for seasoning
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
For the creamy Parmesan sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper, to taste
A small pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional toppings and sides:
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Serve with mashed potatoes or slices of toasted bread
Instructions
Start by letting the steak come to room temperature and seasoning it well with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Add the garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking, then remove the steak and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the garlic and sauté briefly, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir in the Italian seasoning, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly. Don’t skip letting the steak rest at room temp before searing — it helps get that perfect crust. If you’d like a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or broth. Want to sneak in veggies? Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cream sauce!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté / Skillet
- Cuisine: American / Steakhouse-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (without sides)
- Calories: 420kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce, parmesan garlic steak bites, steak bites with creamy sauce, skillet steak dinner, easy steak recipe, weeknight dinner
If this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce recipe hit the spot, you’ll probably love our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta too. Same cozy vibes, just with tender chicken and a pasta twist — another favorite in our weeknight rotation!