Cowboy Butter Steak Bites

Cowboy butter steak bites are bold, buttery, and bursting with flavor. Tender chunks of seared steak are tossed in a zesty, herby garlic butter sauce that’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or devouring straight from the skillet. I love serving them as a quick appetizer, a party favorite, or a weeknight dinner that always impresses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes steak to the next level. The steak bites cook in minutes, but the real star is that cowboy butter—rich, garlicky, spicy, and tangy all at once. It’s the kind of sauce that begs to be scooped up with every bite. Whether I’m making them for guests or just for myself, these bites never last long.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sirloin steak or ribeye (cut into bite-sized cubes)
salt
black pepper
olive oil or neutral cooking oil
unsalted butter
garlic (minced)
Dijon mustard
lemon juice
crushed red pepper flakes
paprika
fresh parsley (chopped)
chives (optional)
thyme (optional)

directions

1. I start by seasoning the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper.

2. I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

3. I sear the steak bites in batches, giving each side a nice crust without overcrowding the pan. This takes about 1–2 minutes per side. Then I remove them and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium and add butter.

5. Once melted, I stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

6. I add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, crushed red pepper, paprika, and a pinch of salt, stirring to create a flavorful cowboy butter.

7. I return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the butter until well coated.

8. I finish with chopped parsley and optional chives or thyme before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a main or up to 6 as an appetizer. It takes about 20–25 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the cowboy butter for more depth. For a smoky touch, I use smoked paprika instead of regular. If I’m feeling indulgent, I serve the bites over mashed potatoes or with toasted bread for dipping into the extra butter.

storage/reheating

I store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat to warm the bites gently without overcooking the steak. I avoid the microwave to keep the steak tender and the butter sauce from separating.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?

I usually go with sirloin or ribeye. Sirloin is lean and affordable, while ribeye offers more marbling and flavor.

Can I make the cowboy butter ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the butter a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. It melts beautifully when reheated in the skillet.

Is cowboy butter spicy?

It has a little kick from the red pepper flakes, but I can adjust the heat to my liking or leave them out entirely.

Can I grill the steak bites instead?

Absolutely. I grill the steak pieces on skewers, then toss them in the warmed cowboy butter just before serving.

What can I serve with cowboy butter steak bites?

I love them with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad. They also pair great with rice or garlic noodles for a fuller meal.

Conclusion

Cowboy butter steak bites are a fast, flavorful, and unforgettable dish that I keep in regular rotation. The juicy steak combined with that rich, zesty butter sauce is pure magic. Whether I’m hosting friends or craving something bold and satisfying, this recipe always delivers.

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