If you are searching for a dish that delivers bold flavor, rich textures, and downright comfort all in one bite, then the Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe features tender, juicy sirloin steak cubes perfectly seared to lock in all their meaty goodness, then generously coated in a luscious, herb-infused butter that adds a smoky, garlicky kick. It’s the kind of dish that’s quick to make but feels downright indulgent, making it perfect for anything from a weeknight treat to a weekend get-together with friends. Get ready to fall head over heels in love with every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this ingredient list; each item plays a vital role in creating the complex layers of flavor and texture that define this dish. From the savory, seared steak to the zesty, aromatic cowboy butter, everything combines harmoniously to make this recipe truly special.
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes: The heart of the dish, delivering juicy tenderness and meaty flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the steak.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect sear and adds a subtle richness.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): The creamy base for the cowboy butter that coats every bite.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a punch of savoriness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Brings a fresh, herbaceous lift to the rich butter.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped): Offers a mild onion flavor with a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that brightens and balances the butter.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Injects just the right amount of acidity for freshness.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat that spices things up pleasantly.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth that complements the steak beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds another layer of peppery spice in the butter.
- â…› teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cowboy butter, tying them together.
How to Make Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
Begin by seasoning the sirloin steak cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering hot. Carefully add the steak pieces in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, which ensures a beautiful crust. Sear the steak bites for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, developing a gorgeous brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. If you have a lot of steak bites, work in batches to maintain that perfect sear.
Step 2: Prepare the Cowboy Butter
While the steak cooks or after you’ve set the steak bites aside, it’s time to whip up the cowboy butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, fresh parsley, chives, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and homogenous. This vibrant butter is packed with layers of flavor that will take the steak bites to the next level.
Step 3: Coat the Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and spoon the cowboy butter over them. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly, letting the warm pan melt the butter and bring all those flavors together. Allow the steak bites to warm through with the butter for 1 to 2 minutes, making sure every morsel is deliciously glossy and infused with that irresistible cowboy butter taste.
How to Serve Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your steak bites with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of vibrant green and added freshness. A light dusting of smoked paprika over the top can also enhance the smoky aroma beautifully. Don’t hesitate to serve extra cowboy butter on the side—it’s perfect for dipping or drizzling!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, which soak up the cowboy butter, or grilled vegetables that add a healthy contrast. Crusty bread is also a fantastic option for mopping up all those buttery juices, ensuring nothing goes to waste. The simplicity of these sides perfectly complements the bold steak bites without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic yet elegant touch, serve the steak bites on a wooden cutting board garnished with herbs and accompanied by small bowls of cowboy butter and dipping sauces. Alternatively, stack the steak bites atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or even fluffy polenta to create a hearty, comforting plate that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover steak bites, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture. Store the cowboy butter separately to preserve its freshness and vibrant taste.
Freezing
You can freeze the cowboy butter on its own by shaping it into a log, wrapping tightly, and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months. Steak bites can also be frozen, but because they’re best enjoyed fresh and juicy, it’s recommended to use frozen steak bites within 1 month for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat your steak bites, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a small spoonful of cowboy butter on top while reheating to restore moisture and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the steak bites.
FAQs
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Sirloin works wonderfully due to its balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or New York strip are excellent alternatives if you want an even more tender and rich bite.
Can I make the cowboy butter without fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs add brightness, you can substitute dried parsley and chives in smaller amounts if needed. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in the Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those avoiding gluten.
How spicy is the cowboy butter?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the buttery richness without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
You can certainly make the cowboy butter up to 5 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. The steak bites are best cooked fresh but can be prepped a few hours ahead and reheated carefully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful steak bites smothered in a vibrant, smoky cowboy butter. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that balances ease and impressive taste perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a delicious meal, the Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe promises to deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor these juicy and tender steak bites perfectly seared and topped with a rich, flavorful cowboy butter made with garlic, fresh herbs, and a kick of smoked paprika. This quick and easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a satisfying main course that pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, grilled veggies, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 ½ pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cowboy Butter
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- â…› teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Generously season the sirloin steak cubes with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
- Heat the Olive Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot, ensuring a good sear on the steak bites.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Arrange the steak cubes in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Avoid overcrowding by working in batches if necessary.
- Prepare the Cowboy Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Coat and Warm Through: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and spoon the cowboy butter over them. Stir gently to coat all the pieces and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the steak bites immediately, offering extra cowboy butter on the side if desired for added richness.
Notes
- For a more tender bite, consider using ribeye or New York strip instead of sirloin.
- Cowboy butter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for future use.
- Pair this dish with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
