Are you ready for a quick and tasty meal? My Minute Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Rice is your new go-to recipe! In just minutes, you can enjoy juicy sirloin steak, bathed in rich garlic butter, served over fluffy jasmine rice. This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Additional Seasonings
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
Serving Suggestions
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Gathering these ingredients is key to making tasty garlic butter steak bites. The sirloin steak is the star here. Its rich flavor pairs well with the garlic and butter.
Unsalted butter gives a creamy taste without added salt. Garlic adds great aroma and depth. Smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness, while dried thyme adds a touch of earthiness.
Salt and pepper are classic seasonings. They help to enhance the flavors of the steak. Soy sauce is optional but adds a nice umami kick.
For serving, jasmine rice is perfect. It’s fluffy and has a subtle sweetness. Sliced green onions make a fresh and colorful garnish. They really brighten up the dish.
This mix of ingredients makes your meal not just delicious but also vibrant. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak
To start, cut your sirloin steak into 1-inch cubes. This size helps the steak cook quickly and evenly. Next, season the steak cubes with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat each piece well. A good tip is to use your hands to rub the spices into the meat. This way, every cube gets a nice flavor boost.
Cooking the Steak
Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Wait for it to melt and start bubbling. This bubbling means it’s ready for the steak. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer. If your skillet is small, work in batches. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them nicely browned. Medium-rare is the best doneness for juicy steak bites.
Adding Flavor
After the steak is cooked, lower the heat. Push the steak to one side of the skillet. In the empty side, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Then, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells great. This step adds rich flavor to the dish. If you want extra depth, drizzle a tablespoon of soy sauce over the steak. Toss everything together so the steak absorbs all the goodness.
Serving the Dish
To serve, create a fluffy bed of jasmine rice on a plate. Spoon the garlic butter steak bites over the rice. For a bright touch, sprinkle sliced green onions on top. This garnish adds color and a fresh taste. If you like, add a sprinkle of salt for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites
For the best steak bites, I recommend cooking to medium-rare. This keeps the meat tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, aiming for about 130°F (54°C). If you plan to cook a lot, work in batches. This helps each piece cook evenly without steaming.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These add brightness and depth. You can also try different seasonings to mix it up. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even chili flakes for some heat. These small changes can make a big difference.
Cooking Equipment Recommendations
Use a heavy skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel. These materials hold heat well, helping with a good sear. Make sure to preheat your pan before adding the butter. This step is key for browning the steak bites. Keep an eye on your heat; too high can burn the garlic, while too low won’t sear properly.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in this dish. For a lighter option, use chicken. Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them just like the steak. Cook them the same way until golden brown and juicy.
Shrimp is another great choice. Use peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook very fast, so watch them closely. Sauté them in garlic butter until they turn pink and opaque.
If you want a vegetarian version, try using hearty mushrooms. Portobello or cremini mushrooms work well. Slice them thick and sauté like the steak. They soak up flavors and add a nice texture.
Flavorful Additions
Adding vegetables makes this dish even better. Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Cut them into strips and toss them in with the steak. Onions also add great flavor. Slice them thin and sauté them until soft.
You might want to play with spices too. Try adding a pinch of cumin for warmth. Or use a bit of crushed red pepper for heat. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
Alternative Serving Ideas
You can pair these steak bites with different rice types. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is more filling. Quinoa is another healthy option. It cooks fast and adds protein.
Serve with side dishes for a complete meal. A crisp salad with lemon dressing works well. Roasted veggies also complement the rich garlic butter flavors. You could even serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage Tips
To store your leftover garlic butter steak bites, cool them at room temp for 30 minutes. Then, place them in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. The rice should also cool before you store it. Make sure both steak and rice are in separate containers to maintain texture.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your steak bites, use a pan over low heat. This keeps them juicy. Add a splash of water or broth to create steam. For the rice, microwave it with a damp paper towel on top. This helps it stay fluffy. You can also add a little butter to the rice for extra flavor.
Freezing the Dish
You can freeze the steak bites, but avoid freezing the rice. The rice may get mushy when thawed. To freeze, place steak bites in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out the air before sealing. When ready, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a pan as mentioned above.
FAQs
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
The best cut for this dish is sirloin steak. It gives great flavor and tenderness. Sirloin is also budget-friendly and easy to find. You can try ribeye for more marbling or tender filet mignon for a luxurious feel. Both cuts will work well, but sirloin is my top pick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Cook the steak bites and rice, then store them separately. Use airtight containers for best freshness. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the steak and rice in the microwave or skillet. It’s a simple way to save time on busy days.
How do I know when the steak is done?
To check if your steak is done, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130°F (54°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for a nice brown crust. The steak should feel firm but still have some give. This way, you can enjoy juicy bites every time.
What can I substitute for jasmine rice?
You can use several alternatives for jasmine rice. Long-grain white rice is a good choice. It cooks in about 15 minutes. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and takes longer at about 45 minutes. Quinoa is another healthy option that cooks in 15 minutes. Each choice brings its unique texture and taste to the dish.
This dish combines simple ingredients like steak, garlic, and spices to create flavor. You can serve it over jasmine rice and garnish with green onions. Following these steps ensures you’ll cook perfect steak bites every time. Experimenting with proteins and seasonings allows for endless variations, keeping your meals fresh. Remember to store leftovers properly so you can enjoy your creation again. With these tips, you can master this recipe and impress everyone at your table. Enjoy your cooking journey and have fun with it!
