Sheet pan dinners have become a weeknight staple in our home, and for good reason! They’re incredibly convenient, minimize cleanup, and deliver delicious results without a ton of fuss. But even among the sheet pan champions, this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe reigns supreme. From the moment the sizzling garlic butter aroma fills the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. The steak bites emerge perfectly cooked – tender and juicy on the inside with a beautifully browned exterior, each piece glistening with that rich, savory garlic butter. My family devoured these! Even my pickiest eater, who sometimes shies away from steak, couldn’t get enough. Served alongside some roasted vegetables and fluffy rice, it transformed a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that’s sure to impress, look no further – these Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a guaranteed winner.

Ingredients

• Steak: 2 lbs sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip steak, cut into 1-inch cubes. Choose a tender cut of beef that cooks quickly and remains juicy when cooked at high heat. Sirloin offers a good balance of flavor and tenderness, while ribeye and New York strip provide richer flavor and marbling.
• Butter: ½ cup unsalted butter, melted. Butter is the heart of the garlic butter sauce, providing richness, flavor, and helping the steak bites brown beautifully in the oven. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Garlic: 6 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic garlic flavor that complements the steak perfectly. Mincing the garlic releases its oils and ensures it infuses the butter fully.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil adds healthy fats and helps to prevent the butter from burning at high temperatures in the oven. It also contributes to the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the finished dish. It also provides a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the garlic butter.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Thyme adds an earthy, slightly peppery flavor that enhances the savory notes of the steak and garlic. Dried thyme is a convenient pantry staple and its flavor intensifies as it cooks.
• Dried Rosemary: ½ teaspoon dried rosemary. Rosemary provides a piney, fragrant aroma and a robust flavor that pairs exceptionally well with steak and garlic. Use dried rosemary sparingly as its flavor is quite potent.
• Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons salt, or to taste. Salt is crucial for seasoning the steak and enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent, slightly spicy kick and enhances the overall seasoning. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat and complexity to the flavor profile. Use sparingly if you prefer a milder dish or omit entirely if you are sensitive to spice.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents sticking and foil makes cleaning up greasy messes simpler. Using a large baking sheet ensures the steak bites are not overcrowded, which is crucial for proper browning and cooking.
2. Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface of the steak will prevent proper browning and searing. Patting them dry allows for a beautiful crust to form when they are roasted. Place the steak cubes in a large bowl.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Melting the butter first allows the garlic and herbs to infuse it evenly. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Cooking the garlic in the butter releases its aroma and flavor, creating a deeply infused garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the olive oil, chopped parsley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). The olive oil helps to prevent the butter from scorching in the oven and adds a layer of healthy fat. The herbs and spices create a flavorful and aromatic sauce that will coat the steak bites.
4. Coat the Steak Bites in Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter sauce over the steak cubes in the bowl. Toss the steak bites thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce. Even coating is key to ensuring each steak bite is flavorful and cooks evenly.
5. Arrange Steak Bites on the Sheet Pan: Spread the steak bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. It is crucial to arrange the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the steak instead of roasting and browning them. Ensure there is space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation and browning.
6. Roast the Steak Bites: Roast in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the steak bites are cooked to your desired level of doneness. The cooking time will depend on the size of your steak bites and your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 8-10 minutes; for medium, 10-12 minutes; and for medium-well, slightly longer. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, 135-140°F (57-60°C); and for medium-well, 140-145°F (60-63°C).
7. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): For extra browning and crispiness, you can broil the steak bites for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them while broiling to prevent burning, as broilers can heat very quickly. Broiling at the end enhances the caramelized crust and adds visual appeal.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the steak bites rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak bites, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Do not skip this step! Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g) steak bites
Servings Per Recipe: 6

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes cutting the steak into cubes, mincing the garlic, chopping the parsley, and measuring out the spices. The prep work is quick and straightforward, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.

Cook Time: 8-12 minutes roasting, plus optional 1-2 minutes broiling. The quick cooking time is one of the biggest advantages of this recipe. Sheet pan cooking at high heat ensures the steak bites cook quickly and evenly.

Total Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes. From start to finish, you can have delicious, flavorful steak bites on the table in under half an hour. This makes it a fantastic option for a fast and satisfying meal.

How to Serve

These Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Steak Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Classic Steak and Potatoes:
  • Serve alongside roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or crispy French fries for a classic and satisfying meal.
  • Consider roasting potatoes on the same sheet pan as the steak bites (adjust cooking times accordingly, potatoes will likely need longer).
  • Add a side of steamed or roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a complete and balanced dinner.
• Steak Bites Bowls:
  • Create flavorful bowls by serving the steak bites over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous.
  • Add a variety of toppings such as:
    • Fresh avocado slices
    • Diced tomatoes
    • Corn kernels
    • Black beans
    • Salsa or pico de gallo
    • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
    • Chopped cilantro
• Steak Bites Tacos or Wraps:
  • Warm up tortillas (corn or flour) or pita bread and fill them with the steak bites.
  • Add your favorite taco toppings:
    • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
    • Diced onions
    • Cilantro
    • Salsa or hot sauce
    • Guacamole or avocado crema
• Steak Bites Salad:
  • Toss the warm steak bites into a fresh salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
  • Good salad bases include:
    • Mixed greens
    • Romaine lettuce
    • Spinach
  • Add other salad components like:
    • Cherry tomatoes
    • Cucumbers
    • Bell peppers
    • Red onion
    • Cheese crumbles (feta, blue cheese, or cheddar)
    • Your favorite salad dressing (vinaigrette, ranch, or blue cheese dressing would all pair well).
• Appetizer or Party Bites:
  • Serve the steak bites as an appetizer or party snack.
  • Provide toothpicks or small skewers for easy grabbing.
  • Offer a selection of dipping sauces such as:
    • Aioli
    • Chimichurri sauce
    • Steak sauce
    • Garlic mayonnaise
    • Horseradish cream sauce
• Steak Bites Skewers:
  • Thread the steak bites onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes before or after roasting for a fun and interactive presentation.
  • Brush with extra garlic butter sauce after roasting for added flavor.
• Steak Bites Sandwiches or Sliders:
  • Use the steak bites to create delicious sandwiches or sliders.
  • Serve them on toasted buns or rolls with toppings like:
    • Caramelized onions
    • Mushrooms
    • Cheese (provolone, Swiss, or cheddar)
    • Garlic aioli or horseradish sauce
• Pasta with Steak Bites:
  • Toss the steak bites with cooked pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or linguine.
  • Add some of the garlic butter sauce from the sheet pan to coat the pasta.
  • Include vegetables like roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for a more complete pasta dish.

Additional Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Steak Bites

1. Choose the Right Cut of Steak: For the most tender and flavorful steak bites, select a tender cut of beef that is well-marbled. Sirloin, ribeye, and New York strip are all excellent choices. These cuts are known for their flavor and ability to remain juicy when cooked quickly at high heat. Avoid tougher cuts like flank steak or brisket, which require longer cooking times and are not ideal for quick roasting.
2. Cut Steak into Uniform Cubes: Ensure that you cut the steak into roughly uniform 1-inch cubes. This is crucial for even cooking. Steak bites that are different sizes will cook at different rates, leading to some being overcooked while others are undercooked. Consistent size promotes even roasting and ensures all pieces reach your desired level of doneness simultaneously.
3. Pat the Steak Bites Dry: Before coating the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the surface of the steak is essential for achieving a beautiful brown crust. Moisture will cause the steak to steam rather than sear in the oven, hindering browning and crisping.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Sheet Pan: Arrange the steak bites in a single layer on the sheet pan, ensuring there is space between each piece. Overcrowding the pan will trap steam and prevent the steak bites from browning properly. Air needs to circulate freely around each piece for even roasting and browning. If necessary, use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding.
5. Preheat the Sheet Pan (Optional but Recommended): For even better searing and browning, consider preheating the sheet pan in the oven while it preheats. A hot sheet pan will help to immediately sear the bottom of the steak bites as soon as they are placed on it, promoting a desirable crust. Be careful when placing the steak bites on a hot sheet pan – use oven mitts and tongs.
6. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness: The best way to ensure your steak bites are cooked to your desired level of doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a steak bite to check the internal temperature. Refer to the temperature guidelines mentioned in the instructions section for your preferred level of doneness (medium-rare, medium, etc.).
7. Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Taste the garlic butter sauce before coating the steak bites and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, garlic, or red pepper flakes depending on your preferences. Personalizing the seasoning ensures the flavor profile perfectly suits your taste.
8. Rest the Steak Bites After Cooking: Allow the steak bites to rest for at least 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. Resting is a crucial step for tender and juicy steak. During resting, the juices redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. If you cut into the steak immediately after cooking, the juices will run out, leading to drier steak bites.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Q1: What is the best cut of steak to use for steak bites?

A: For the most tender and flavorful steak bites, opt for tender cuts of beef like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts have good marbling, which contributes to their juiciness and flavor when cooked quickly at high heat. Sirloin is a great all-around choice, while ribeye and New York strip offer richer flavor profiles. Avoid tougher cuts like flank steak or round steak as they require longer cooking times and are not ideal for this recipe.

Q2: Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?

A: It’s best to use thawed steak for this recipe. Frozen steak will release moisture as it thaws during cooking, which can hinder browning and make the steak bites less tender. If you must use frozen steak, ensure it is fully thawed before proceeding with the recipe. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator is the safest and best method. You can also quick-thaw steak in a waterproof bag submerged in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

Q3: How can I ensure my steak bites are tender and not tough?

A: Several factors contribute to tender steak bites. First, start with a tender cut of steak. Second, don’t overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook them to your desired level of doneness and avoid going beyond medium-well. Overcooking makes any cut of steak tough. Third, pat the steak bites dry before cooking to promote searing and prevent steaming. Finally, rest the steak bites for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

Q4: Can I marinate the steak bites before cooking?

A: Yes, you can marinate the steak bites for added flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder would work well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Discard the marinade before coating the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce and proceeding with the recipe. Marinating is optional but can enhance the flavor and tenderness, especially if using a slightly less tender cut of steak.

Q5: How should I store leftover steak bites?

A: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, in the oven at 300°F (150°C), or in the microwave. Reheating in a skillet or oven is preferable as it helps to maintain the texture of the steak bites better than microwaving, which can sometimes make them a bit tougher. Add a little bit of butter or olive oil when reheating to prevent them from drying out.

Q6: Can I use different herbs in the garlic butter sauce?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the garlic butter sauce to customize the flavor to your liking. Good alternatives or additions include fresh oregano, basil, chives, or a pinch of dried Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs will provide a brighter flavor, while dried herbs offer a more concentrated taste. Consider using a combination of fresh and dried herbs for a more complex flavor profile.

Q7: What if I don’t have a sheet pan? Can I use a different type of pan?

A: While a sheet pan is ideal for this recipe due to its large, flat surface that promotes even cooking, you can use a large baking dish or a roasting pan as a substitute. Ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding. If using a deeper pan, be mindful that it might take slightly longer for the steak bites to brown compared to a sheet pan.

Q8: How can I prevent the garlic from burning in the garlic butter sauce?

A: To prevent the garlic from burning in the garlic butter sauce, cook it over low heat for just 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Garlic burns easily and becomes bitter when overheated. Keep a close eye on it while it’s cooking in the melted butter and remove it from the heat as soon as you can smell the garlic aroma. Alternatively, you can add the garlic to the melted butter off the heat and let the residual heat gently infuse the butter.