Ingredients
Seasoning Blend
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. steak (strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, etc.)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic (finely minced or grated)
- Minced fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare: Slice the steak into roughly 2-inch pieces and place them in a mixing bowl, ready for seasoning.
- Season: In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning blend ingredients: smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, light brown sugar, and dried thyme. Sprinkle this mixture over the steak pieces in the mixing bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat Skillet: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat without any oil. Heat the skillet for several minutes until you see wisps of smoke indicating it is properly preheated.
- Sear in Batches: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the pan evenly. Add about half of the steak pieces (adjust quantity if skillet is small to avoid overcrowding). Sear the steak bites without moving them for 2 minutes to develop a good crust, then flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes until nicely browned. Remove cooked steak and set aside on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining vegetable oil and steak pieces.
- Make Garlic Butter: Reduce heat to medium-low and use the same skillet—you want to retain the flavorful browned bits. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release all the flavors.
- Combine and Serve: Turn off the heat, return the seared steak bites to the skillet, and stir well to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately, garnished generously with minced fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use a sturdy, heavy-bottomed skillet to achieve the best sear on the steak bites.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; sear in batches to allow the steak to brown properly.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference—use less if you prefer milder bites.
- Let the skillet get sufficiently hot before adding the steak for optimal flavor and crust.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste in the garlic butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American