Julia Koch
When you need a weeknight dinner that looks impressive but takes hardly any time, Cowboy Butter Steak Bites deliver big flavor with little effort. These golden-seared beef cubes are drenched in a zesty, garlicky, buttery sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that hits every savory craving you didn’t know you had. Served straight from the skillet or over mashed potatoes, they’re irresistible.
What makes Cowboy Butter Steak Bites special is their bold, tangy coating made with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and fresh herbs. The butter soaks into the seared meat, keeping it juicy and rich while offering an aromatic punch. This dish brings steakhouse vibes to your kitchen in under 20 minutes, without needing a grill or fancy tools.
What Cut of Steak Works Best for Cowboy Butter Steak Bites?
You want a cut that can handle high heat while staying tender. Sirloin is the classic choice—affordable, lean, and flavorful. But if you’re splurging, tenderloin or ribeye offers buttery texture and more marbling. Just be sure to cut the steak into uniform cubes so they cook evenly.
Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Steak Bites
Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye): This is your protein base. Look for good marbling to keep the bites juicy.
Butter: The foundation of Cowboy Butter. It carries the garlic, herbs, and lemon into the meat.
Garlic: Adds sharpness and bite to balance the richness.
Dijon Mustard: Offers tang and depth. It’s subtle but essential.
Lemon Juice: Cuts through the butter with brightness.
Fresh Parsley: A final touch of color and freshness.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a tiny kick, totally adjustable.
Salt and Pepper: Enhance the natural beef flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the steak and prevents sticking.
How To Make the Cowboy Butter Steak Bites
Step 1: Prep the Steak
Cut your chosen steak into bite-sized cubes, around 1 to 1.5 inches each. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear to Perfection
In a heavy skillet (cast iron is best), heat a tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan—you want a deep brown sear. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until golden and crusted. Work in batches if needed. Set cooked steak aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cowboy Butter
Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, stir in minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce emulsifies.
Step 4: Toss It All Together
Return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the cowboy butter until fully coated and heated through, about 1 more minute. Finish with extra parsley if desired.
Serving and Storing Cowboy Butter Steak Bites
These steak bites are best enjoyed right out of the skillet, still sizzling with cowboy butter. Serve them as a main dish over mashed potatoes, rice, or even tucked into a warm baguette for a decadent steak sandwich. They also work beautifully as an appetizer, pierced with cocktail picks and passed around.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the juiciness and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may toughen the steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the steak bites tender?
Pat the steak dry and don’t overcook it. A quick, high-heat sear is key to locking in juices without making the meat chewy.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely. Sirloin is great, but tenderloin or ribeye are excellent alternatives. Just avoid tough cuts like chuck or round unless marinated first.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only slightly. The red pepper flakes add a hint of heat. You can reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like plant-based margarine or olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What else can I add to cowboy butter?
Try mixing in fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of hot sauce for a custom twist.
Want More Dinner Ideas?
You might also like the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta, which uses similar flavors in a heartier pasta format. Or try the Juicy and Tender Pork Tenderloin Roast for an oven-baked classic with herbed richness.
For more spicy options, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta delivers bold heat in a one-pan meal. And if you’re after pure comfort, the Hearty One Pot Beef Stew Recipe wraps up your evening with warmth and depth.
For a seafood spin, don’t miss the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe—buttery, cheesy, and just as indulgent.
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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try a different herb? Did you sear in cast iron or something else? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.
Cowboy Butter Steak Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cowboy Butter Steak Bites are golden-seared cubes of steak drenched in a buttery, garlicky, and zesty sauce that turns weeknight meals into a steakhouse treat. They’re quick, flavorful, and perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1–1.5 inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cut steak into even cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear steak cubes in a single layer, 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Work in batches if necessary.
- Remove steak and reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt butter.
- Stir in garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return steak to pan, tossing to coat in the butter sauce. Heat through for 1 more minute.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
