Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You are about to discover your new favorite weeknight dinner, guaranteed! This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe is a true game-changer for so many reasons. First, it is incredibly fast.
From prep to plate, you can have this exquisite dish ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules when you crave something substantial and delicious. Second, the flavor profile is simply out of this world. The rich, savory notes of seared steak perfectly complement the sweet, tender shrimp, all bathed in an aromatic garlic butter sauce that you will want to spoon over everything.
Furthermore, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp dish looks utterly impressive. It has that restaurant-quality appeal, making it perfect for entertaining guests or simply treating your family to something extraordinary. You don’t need a culinary degree to master this recipe; it is approachable, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding.
Finally, it is versatile. You can easily adapt it with different sides or slight variations, always resulting in a magnificent meal. This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp truly delivers on both convenience and gourmet taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this delightful Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp dish is a simple task. Fresh, high-quality components ensure the best flavor.
* 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
* 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 1 teaspoon salt, divided
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
* 10 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
* 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
Substitutions & Variations
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for various substitutions and creative twists to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Steak Options: While sirloin steak works beautifully, you can certainly use other cuts for your steak bites. Ribeye offers a richer, more marbled flavor, while tenderloin provides an incredibly buttery texture. For a more budget-friendly option, consider using a good quality top round or even flank steak, just be sure to cut it against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Remember that different cuts will cook slightly differently, so always watch for your desired doneness. This adaptability makes your Garlic Butter Steak Bites always perfect.
Shrimp Alternatives: If fresh shrimp is not available, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and ensure a good sear. You could also experiment with other seafood if shrimp is not your preference. Scallops would be a luxurious addition, or even firm white fish like cod, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Herb Power: Parsley and thyme lend a classic, fresh aroma to this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp. Feel free to swap them out or add other fresh herbs. Rosemary provides a more woody, earthy note, while chives offer a mild oniony flavor.
A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, elevating the savory steak and shrimp combo. For a brighter flavor, a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest incorporated into the garlic butter truly shines.
Garlic Butter Enhancements: The garlic butter is the star of this dish! Beyond the specified ingredients, you might consider adding a dash of smoked paprika for depth, a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding the butter, or a touch of honey for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
For an extra creamy sauce, a tablespoon of heavy cream stirred in at the end can be absolutely divine. This simple addition transforms your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp into an even more decadent experience.
Vegetable Add-ins: Want to make this a one-pan meal? Sauté some cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach right after the steak and shrimp, then toss them in the delicious garlic butter sauce. This not only adds color and nutrients but also soaks up all those incredible flavors, making your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp even more complete.
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for various substitutions and creative twists to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. If you’re looking to switch things up, check out this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe for another tasty option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this amazing Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak.
First, take your sirloin steak. Pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels.
This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Cut the steak into uniform 1-inch cubes. Season the steak bites generously with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated.
Step 2: Sear the Steak.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Ensure the pan is very hot before adding the steak.
Add the seasoned steak bites to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, work in batches. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until a deep brown crust forms and the steak reaches your desired doneness.
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Remove the seared steak bites from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp.
While the skillet is still hot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pat your peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry. Season the shrimp with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp.
Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for only 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery, so watch them carefully! Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and add them to the plate with the steak bites.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter to the same skillet.
Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
Step 6: Combine and Serve.
Return both the seared steak bites and the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the fragrant garlic butter sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure the steak and shrimp are thoroughly coated in the delicious garlic butter.
Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. This makes your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfection with your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp is easier than you think when you keep a few key tips in mind.
* Pat Your Meat Dry: This is perhaps the most critical step for both the steak and the shrimp. Moisture on the surface prevents browning and creates steam, leading to a grey, unappetizing exterior instead of a beautiful, caramelized crust. Always use paper towels to thoroughly pat the steak cubes and shrimp dry before seasoning.
* Hot Skillet is Key: Ensure your skillet is screaming hot before adding the steak or shrimp. A very hot pan creates an immediate sear, locking in juices and developing that coveted crust. You want to hear a sizzle the moment the protein hits the pan.
If the pan isn’t hot enough, the meat will stew rather than sear.
* Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak and shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet lowers the pan’s temperature and releases too much moisture, again leading to steaming instead of searing.
Give each piece space to breathe and brown properly. This is crucial for both the steak bites and the shrimp bites.
* Watch Cooking Times Closely: Steak bites cook quickly, especially when cut into 1-inch pieces.
Shrimp cooks even faster. Overcooked steak becomes tough, and overcooked shrimp turns rubbery. Aim for medium-rare to medium for steak, and remove the shrimp as soon as it turns pink and opaque.
* Rest the Steak: After searing, allow the steak bites to rest for a few minutes before returning them to the pan with the shrimp and garlic butter. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and moist.
* Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic adds incredible flavor, but burnt garlic tastes bitter and unpleasant.
Keep a close eye on it when sautéing in the butter; it only needs about a minute to become fragrant.
* Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use fresh garlic and fresh herbs whenever possible. The vibrant flavors they provide truly elevate this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp dish from good to extraordinary.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end also brightens the entire plate.
* Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of both the steak and the shrimp, making your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp taste truly exceptional.
Achieving perfection with your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp is easier than you think when you keep a few key tips in mind. For additional cooking techniques that will elevate your dishes, explore this recipe for Crispy Bite-Sized Blooming Onions.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers of this incredible Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp (a rare occurrence in my kitchen!), proper storage and reheating will help maintain its deliciousness.
Storage:
Allow any leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Beyond that, the quality of both the steak and shrimp can significantly diminish.
Reheating:
Reheating steak and shrimp perfectly can be a bit tricky, as both are prone to overcooking.
* Skillet Method (Recommended): This method provides the best results for maintaining texture. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp to the pan. Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, just until warmed through. This usually takes 3-5 minutes.
Be careful not to cook for too long, as this will toughen the steak and make the shrimp rubbery.
* Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Again, watch closely to prevent overcooking.
* Microwave (Least Recommended): While convenient, the microwave can easily overcook both the steak and shrimp, making them dry and tough.
If you must use it, heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until just warm. This option is best avoided if you want to preserve the quality of your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
Remember that the texture of reheated shrimp will never be quite as tender as freshly cooked, but these methods will help you enjoy your leftovers as much as possible.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The beauty of Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp lies not only in its ease and flavor but also in its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion.
* Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice! The rich, buttery mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up every last drop of that amazing garlic butter sauce from your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
* Fluffy White Rice or Quinoa: Simple and elegant.
A bed of perfectly cooked rice or quinoa offers a neutral base that lets the robust flavors of the steak and shrimp truly shine.
* Pasta: Toss some al dente linguine or spaghetti with a little extra garlic butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a truly indulgent meal. The sauce from the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp coats the pasta beautifully.
* Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: For a lighter, healthier option, roasted vegetables are fantastic. Their slight crispness and earthy flavor provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the main dish. A squeeze of lemon over the veggies complements the entire plate.
* Steamed Broccoli or Cauliflower: Quick and nutritious, steamed vegetables are an easy accompaniment. You can even toss them with a little of the garlic butter at the end.
* Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp, cleansing the palate beautifully.
* Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a good loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread! It is perfect for mopping up any remaining garlic butter sauce – truly a must for savoring every last bit of your delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
* Wine Pairing: For a drink pairing, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir would complement the flavors of the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp wonderfully.
The beauty of Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp lies not only in its ease and flavor but also in its versatility. If you’re in the mood for something sweet to complement your meal, consider making this Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tart for dessert.
FAQs
What kind of steak is best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
For the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites, I recommend using sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. Sirloin offers a good balance of flavor and tenderness, while ribeye is wonderfully marbled and tender. Tenderloin provides the most luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whichever you choose, ensure it is a fresh cut for optimal results in your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly for this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for about 15-20 minutes. After thawing, pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and prevent them from steaming in the pan.
How do I keep the steak tender and not overcooked?
Several factors contribute to tender steak bites. First, cut the steak into uniform 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly. Second, use a very hot skillet and avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures a quick sear and prevents steaming.
Third, cook for only 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium, then remove them promptly. Finally, allow the steak bites to rest briefly after searing to redistribute their juices before tossing them with the garlic butter and shrimp. This is key for your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
You can certainly prepare parts of the garlic butter ahead of time. You can mince the garlic and chop the fresh herbs a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, I recommend making the actual garlic butter sauce fresh in the pan right before combining it with the steak and shrimp. This ensures the most vibrant and fragrant flavor for your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp.
What’s the best way to get a good sear on the steak and shrimp?
A perfect sear is crucial for delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp. Always pat your steak cubes and shrimp completely dry before seasoning. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it is smoking slightly.
Add oil, then place the steak or shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook without disturbing for the first minute or two to allow a crust to form, then flip. This technique creates a beautiful, flavorful crust on your steak bites and shrimp bites.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp is a delicious dish that highlights the rich flavors of both steak and shrimp, enhanced by the aromatic allure of garlic. Learn more about this culinary delight in the context of modern cooking techniques and recipes on Cooking.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note that these are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. This information is provided for general guidance.
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-500 kcal |
| Protein | 45-50 g |
| Total Fat | 28-32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12-15 g |
| Cholesterol | 250-280 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3-5 g |
| Fiber | 0-1 g |
| Sugars | 0-1 g |
| Sodium | 700-800 mg |
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring tender steak, succulent shrimp, and an aromatic garlic butter sauce. This dish transforms an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds Sirloin Steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
4 tablespoons Olive Oil, divided
1 teaspoon Salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, divided
10 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves, chopped
1 Lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Steak. Pat the steak dry and season with salt and black pepper
- Step 2: Sear the Steak. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the steak until brown and cooked to desired doneness
- Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp. Pat shrimp dry and season with remaining salt and pepper
- Step 4: Cook the Shrimp. Sauté shrimp in the skillet until pink and opaque, then set aside
- Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce. Add butter, garlic, and thyme to skillet, sauté until fragrant
- Step 6: Combine and Serve. Return steak and shrimp to skillet, toss in garlic butter, serve immediately with lemon wedges
Notes
Make sure to pat the steak and shrimp dry for a better sear.
Monitor cooking times closely to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 0-1 g
- Sodium: 700-800 mg
- Fat: 28-32 g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: unknown
- Trans Fat: unknown
- Carbohydrates: 3-5 g
- Fiber: 0-1 g
- Protein: 45-50 g
- Cholesterol: 250-280 mg