Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or canola)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Prep the steak. Pat the steak cubes very dry with paper towels — dry meat sears, wet meat steams. Season generously with the salt and black pepper.
- Make the cowboy butter base. In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, garlic, Dijon, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Sear hot and fast. Heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the steak in a single uncrowded layer (work in two batches if needed) and sear 2–3 minutes per side for a deep brown crust.
- Toss in the butter. Reduce heat to medium, add the cowboy butter to the skillet, and toss the steak bites for 1 minute until every piece is glossy and coated.
- Finish with herbs. Shower with the parsley and chives, toss once more, and serve immediately — straight from the skillet, with crusty bread for mopping up the butter.
💡 Steak bite smarts
Room-temperature steak sears better — set the cubes out 20 minutes before cooking. Do not crowd the pan: overcrowding drops the temperature and you will steam instead of sear. For medium-rare, pull the bites at 130°F internal; they carry over a few degrees. The cowboy butter doubles beautifully as a spread for grilled corn, baked potatoes, or shrimp.
Common questions
What cut of steak is best for steak bites?
Sirloin is the sweet spot of flavor, tenderness, and price. Ribeye or New York strip are even more luxurious; avoid stew meat, which stays chewy with a quick sear.
How spicy is cowboy butter?
Medium — the cayenne and red pepper flakes give a warm kick without overwhelming. Halve the cayenne for mild, or add an extra pinch for fire.
Can I make this ahead?
The cowboy butter can be mixed up to a week ahead and refrigerated. The steak bites are best served fresh off the heat, but leftovers reheat gently in a skillet for 2–3 minutes.
What should I serve with steak bites?
Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered rice to catch the sauce — plus a simple green salad to cut the richness. They also make a killer appetizer with toothpicks.
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