Welcome to the mouthwatering world of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms! This dish combines tender sirloin steak and earthy mushrooms in a rich, garlic-infused butter sauce. Perfect for any occasion, these savory bites are easy to make and packed with flavor. I’ll guide you through simple steps and share tips to elevate your cooking. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, halved
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
When making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms, I focus on quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the dish’s flavor.
Sirloin Steak
Sirloin steak is my go-to for steak bites. It is tender and has great flavor. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. This ensures each piece gets that nice sear.
Cremini Mushrooms
Cremini mushrooms add earthiness. They are firmer than regular mushrooms, so they hold up well in the dish. Halving them helps them cook evenly.
Unsalted Butter
Unsalted butter is best for this recipe. It allows me to control the salt level. The butter adds richness that complements the steak and mushrooms.
Minced Garlic
Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. I use four cloves for a strong garlic taste. Mince it finely to release its oils and aroma.
Fresh Thyme and Rosemary
Fresh thyme and rosemary give depth to the dish. I prefer one teaspoon of each. Their herbal notes balance the richness of the butter.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning. I add them to taste. They enhance the natural flavors of the steak and mushrooms.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is crucial for searing the steak. I use one tablespoon to help achieve a golden crust. It also adds a light fruitiness.
Fresh Parsley for Garnish
Fresh parsley brightens the dish. I chop it finely for a pop of color and freshness. It makes the dish look inviting and adds a nice flavor contrast.
With these ingredients, you can create a dish that is both simple and full of flavor. Each component adds to the overall experience, making your meal memorable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Steak Bites
– Preparing the skillet: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the steak. This step helps achieve a nice sear on the meat.
– Searing technique: Add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are browned on all sides. This creates a delicious crust.
– Proper seasoning: After searing, remove the steak bites from the skillet. Set them aside on a plate. This keeps them warm while you prepare the garlic butter sauce.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
– Melting the butter: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt slowly. This allows the butter to develop flavor without burning.
– Sautéing garlic and herbs: Once the butter has melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, and 1 teaspoon of minced rosemary. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
– Cooking the mushrooms: Next, add 8 ounces of halved cremini mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them gently. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften and brown. This step adds depth to the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
– Returning steak to skillet: Now it’s time to bring back the steak bites. Return them to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic butter.
– Tossing with sauce: Gently toss the steak bites with the sauce. Make sure every piece is coated well. This infuses the meat with rich flavors.
– Final cooking adjustments: Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This ensures the steak is warmed through and reaches your desired doneness. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sear
To get a great sear, start with the right steak temperature. Let your sirloin sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat. A hot skillet ensures a nice brown crust. Add a little olive oil before the steak. This helps it not stick and adds flavor.
Enhancing the Flavor
You can boost the flavor of your garlic butter steak bites with more herbs. Try adding oregano or basil for a twist. Fresh herbs work best, but dried ones are fine too. Keep an eye on cooking times for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer for best results. The internal temperature should be 130°F.
Presentation Tips
To make your dish look great, think about garnishing. Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some extra thyme on top. For plate pairing, serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It gives a nice balance to the rich steak bites.
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can swap sirloin steak for chicken or shrimp. Chicken cooks quickly and tastes great with garlic butter. For shrimp, just sauté until they turn pink. Both options keep the dish light and tasty. If you want a vegetarian dish, use hearty vegetables or tofu. Mushrooms can take center stage, or add zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful plate.
Flavor Twists
Different mushrooms can change the dish’s taste. Try shiitake or portobello for a unique flavor. You can also mix in some oyster mushrooms for a fun twist. Adding sauces or marinades can enhance the taste. A splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can add depth. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Pair garlic butter steak bites with mashed potatoes or rice. They also go well with roasted veggies or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve them on skewers. This makes for easy sharing at parties. You can also serve them in small bowls with toothpicks for a delightful appetizer.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your garlic butter steak bites in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. They will last up to three days in the fridge. When you want to eat them, check for any off smells. That’s a sign to toss them.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your steak bites, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they do not touch each other. Freeze them for about an hour. Once they are firm, move them to a freezer bag. Seal it tightly, and label it with the date. They can stay good for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Using Leftovers
You can get creative with leftover steak bites. Chop them up and mix them into a salad for lunch. They also taste great in a wrap with fresh veggies. You can even stir them into a pasta dish for a quick dinner. The flavors will blend nicely, making a tasty meal.
FAQs
How long do I cook the steak bites?
Cook the steak bites for about 3-4 minutes on high heat for medium-rare. If you prefer medium, cook them for an extra minute. For well-done steak, aim for 6-7 minutes total. Always check the internal temperature. It should be 130°F for medium-rare and 160°F for well-done.
Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, you can use frozen steak. First, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting. Once thawed, you can follow the same steps as fresh steak. Just remember that frozen steak may need a minute or two longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for fresh herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work well too. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For thyme and rosemary, 1/3 teaspoon of dried herbs should add nice flavor. Dried herbs can be more potent, so start small and taste as you go.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious steak bites with garlic butter. We covered everything from selecting the right ingredients to precise cooking techniques. You learned tricks for perfect searing and enhancing flavors. Plus, I shared tips for presentation and storage.
In your kitchen, these steak bites can shine at dinner. Don’t shy away from trying variations or using leftovers creatively. Enjoy your cooking journey, and savor every bite!
