
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce are the kind of weeknight feast that feels fancy but comes together in a snap. These juicy steak morsels are pan-seared until golden then swirled in a garlicky herb butter and drenched in a silky parmesan cream sauce. It is one of those recipes I reach for when I want all the steakhouse flavors with barely any fuss or cleanup.
The herby butter and fragrant garlic had my whole kitchen smelling incredible the first time I made this. Now, it is my go-to for steakhouse cravings at home because the kids and adults get excited every single time.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak cubed: about one and a half pounds high-quality steak gives you bite-size pieces with tenderness and flavor look for marbled steak
- Salt and pepper for seasoning: salt brings out natural savoriness and pepper adds a gentle kick always taste before serving
- Olive oil: used to sear the steak gives a golden crust choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Unsalted butter divided: rich base for both pan sauce and cream sauce use fresh butter for richness
- Garlic freshly minced: adds punch to both steak and sauce buy firm bulbs with tight skin
- Fresh thyme leaves: a savory herb that brightens the meat go for vibrant green sprigs
- Fresh rosemary leaves chopped: adds earthy depth use fresh over dried if possible
- Fresh parsley chopped: provides grassy color and flavor choose bunches with bright leaves
- Heavy cream: creamy backdrop for the parmesan sauce should be refrigerated and used within a few days of purchase
- Grated parmesan cheese: lends nutty saltiness fresh parm melts smoother than pre-grated options
- Italian seasoning: a blend of dried herbs that fills out the sauce aroma look for a mix with oregano thyme and basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Steak:
- Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel and sprinkle them thoroughly with salt and pepper on all sides letting them rest for a few minutes while you heat your pan. This ensures a flavorful sear without overcrowding moisture.
- Sear the Steak Bites:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat pour in the olive oil and add half the butter. Once the butter melts and foams lay the steak cubes in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for three to four minutes then use tongs to turn each piece and brown every side. Cook to your desired doneness then transfer the meat to a plate to rest temporarily. This keeps the steak juicy.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the remaining butter to the same skillet lowering the heat slightly. Tip in the garlic thyme rosemary and parsley. Stir constantly for about sixty seconds until the herbs and garlic are fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the butter and brings depth to the whole dish.
- Finish the Steak in Butter:
- Return the steak bites and any juices to the skillet with the herb butter. Gently toss and cook them for one to two more minutes making sure every piece is coated. Take off the heat and keep them warm while you make the cream sauce. This seals in all the flavors.
- Start the Sauce:
- Using a separate skillet set over medium heat melt the butter until foamy. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute stirring so the garlic does not burn. The garlic here is the base of your luscious cream sauce.
- Simmer the Cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream and turn the heat down slightly. Stir gently bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer rather than a boil. This keeps the sauce smooth as it thickens.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Sprinkle in the grated parmesan and Italian seasoning. Stir frequently until the cheese melds with the cream and becomes a velvety sauce without lumps. You want the cheese to melt in gradually for that silky texture.
- Adjust and Finish:
- Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Let the sauce simmer for two to three minutes longer until it reaches your desired thickness. It will coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Either pour the warm parmesan cream sauce right over the steak bites in the skillet or serve it in a bowl for dipping. Shower with a final sprinkle of parsley for color and enjoy while hot.

I always use extra fresh thyme because I love the way it perfumes the whole dish. One night when we made this for a family birthday I let each person pour their own cream sauce and it turned into a mini celebration right at the table.
Storage Tips
Leftover steak bites and sauce should be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The steak keeps well for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to keep it juicy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If sirloin is not available try ribeye or strip steak for similar tenderness. You can use half and half instead of heavy cream but the sauce will be slightly thinner. Dried Italian herbs are fine in the sauce in place of fresh if you are out. Pecorino works if you want to swap for parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these steak bites over mashed potatoes rice or cauliflower puree for a stick to your ribs meal. They are also excellent alongside roasted green beans garlic bread or tossed with pasta for a super indulgent dinner.

Recipe Roots
Garlic butter steak bites are an American favorite but versions of this pairing exist around the world. Combining steak and garlic is classic French steakhouse style while the parmesan cream sauce hints at Italian-American comfort food roots. It is pure weeknight magic built from those traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What cut of steak works best for this dish?
Sirloin steak is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or New York strip can also be used for extra richness.
- → How do I achieve a perfect sear on the steak bites?
Make sure the skillet is hot, and avoid overcrowding the pan to help the steak caramelize, not steam.
- → Can I make the Parmesan cream sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead. Gently reheat and stir to restore its creamy texture before serving.
- → What herbs complement the garlic butter flavor?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley add aromatic depth, while Italian seasoning gives extra Mediterranean flair.
- → Is this dish suitable for low-carb or gluten-free diets?
Yes, this meal is naturally low in carbs and contains no gluten, making it suitable for those dietary needs.
- → How can I thicken the Parmesan cream sauce if needed?
Let the sauce simmer a little longer, stirring occasionally until it reaches your preferred consistency.