Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Ingredients:

For the steak bites:
1 ½ lbs (680g) sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Parmesan cream sauce:

1 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup chicken or beef broth (for thinning the sauce, if needed)

Directions:

Prepare the steak bites: Pat the steak pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Sear the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the garlic butter: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the steak bites to the pan, toss to coat in the garlic butter, then transfer them to a plate.

Prepare the Parmesan cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and serve: Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.