Garlic Butter Steak Bites Drizzled with a Rich Parmesan Cream Sauce

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

1. Steak:
   • 2 lbs of steak (filet, ribeye, or sirloin are recommended for tenderness and juiciness).
   • 4-5 tablespoons avocado oil (preferred due to its high smoke point).
2. Parmesan Cream Sauce:
   • 5 tablespoons butter (divided into portions for different steps).
   • 10 cloves garlic, minced (divided into portions for different steps).
   • 1.5 cups heavy cream.
   • 2 green onions, diced (both green and white parts).
   • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste if less spice is desired).
   • 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, shredded, or shaved).
3. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes (Optional Side):
   • 4 lbs russet potatoes.
   • 1 cup half-and-half (warmed).
   • 6 tablespoons salted butter (melted).
   • 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese or other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
   • 3/4 teaspoon salt.
   • Pepper to taste.

Cooking Method for Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak

• Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2-3 inches each. Keep in mind that the steak will shrink slightly during cooking.
• Coat the steak pieces lightly with avocado oil on all sides. This helps achieve a good sear while preventing sticking.
• Season generously with Cajun seasoning or a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure all sides are well coated.
• Let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate and remove the chill from refrigeration.

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes (Optional Side)

• Peel and quarter 4 lbs of russet potatoes. Soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
• Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender while you cook the steak bites.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of avocado oil. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the steak pieces.
• Place the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding the pan; this ensures even browning. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form on one side.
• Flip each piece once and cook for another minute on medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook an additional 2 minutes for medium doneness.
• Remove cooked steak bites from the skillet and place them in a bowl covered with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make Garlic Butter Coating

• In the same skillet used for cooking steak, add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned.
• Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss them in this garlic butter mixture until evenly coated. Remove again from heat and tent with foil.

Step 5: Prepare Parmesan Cream Sauce

1. Using residual butter and garlic left in your skillet:
   • Add an additional 2 tablespoons of butter along with any remaining minced garlic (approximately half of what’s left) into your skillet over low-medium heat. Sauté until fragrant but not burnt.
   • Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer while stirring continuously.
   • Allow it to reduce slightly over about 3–5 minutes, thickening as it cooks.
2. Add flavor enhancers:
   • Stir in diced green onions (white and green parts) along with red pepper flakes (adjust quantity based on spice preference).
   • Gradually whisk in grated/shredded Parmesan cheese (about two-thirds cup) until fully melted into a smooth sauce.
3. Taste-test:
   • Adjust seasoning by adding salt or black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Mash Potatoes & Serve

1. Drain boiled potatoes thoroughly after they’re fork-tender:
   • Mash them using a potato masher or ricer while still warm.
   • Mix in melted butter (6 tablespoons) along with warmed half-and-half (1 cup) until creamy consistency is achieved.
   • Fold in shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or similar) along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Plate your dish:
   • Serve mashed potatoes as a base on each plate if desired.
   • Top with garlic butter-coated steak bites.
   • Drizzle generously with prepared Parmesan cream sauce over both components.

Optional Garnishes:

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan over plated servings for added flavor and presentation appeal.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question

1. Serious Eats:
   A trusted culinary resource offering detailed recipes, cooking techniques, ingredient science, and equipment reviews written by professional chefs and food experts.
2. America’s Test Kitchen:
   Renowned for its rigorous recipe testing process that ensures reliable results every time; their focus on technique makes them an authoritative source for home cooks seeking precision.
3. The Kitchn:
   A popular online food publication providing practical advice on recipes, meal planning tips, kitchen tools, and ingredient selection aimed at home cooks looking to improve their skills step-by-step.