Steak bites made with tender stew meat are a fun and easy way to enjoy all the rich flavors of a good steak without the fuss of cutting a whole steak yourself. These little pieces are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or snacking while you watch a game or hang out. Using stew meat means you get a tender bite every time, which is something I really appreciate.
I love making these steak bites because they cook up quickly and soak up whatever seasonings or sauces I want to throw at them. A simple sprinkle of pepper and garlic salt works wonders, but sometimes I add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to really bring out the meaty taste. It’s one of those recipes where a few tweaks can make it just right for your mood or guests.
For me, these steak bites are best served with a side of roasted veggies or tossed into a salad for a protein punch. They also make a great appetizer when you’re having friends over—everyone loves grabbing a tasty bite off a toothpick! Whenever I make these, I remember the times friends would gather around the kitchen chatting and snacking, which always makes me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tender Stew Meat: Using tender stew beef is great because it’s often more affordable and already cut into perfect bite-sized pieces. If stew meat isn’t available, try cubed sirloin or chuck roast trimmed and cut yourself for a similar texture.
Garlic and Butter: Garlic adds a nice aromatic punch, while butter gives a rich finish. If you prefer dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Fresh garlic works best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce boosts the umami flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar makes a good alternative.
Fresh Parsley: It adds a fresh, vibrant touch at the end. If you can’t find parsley, fresh cilantro or chives are tasty swaps.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Seared Crust on Steak Bites?
Getting that crust on your steak bites is all about patience and preparation. Here’s what helps:
- Pat your meat dry with paper towels to remove moisture before seasoning. Wet beef won’t sear well.
- Don’t crowd the pan—too many pieces heat drops and steam the meat instead of searing it.
- Use a hot pan and oil that can handle high heat, like olive or vegetable oil.
- Once you add the meat, let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to build a good crust before flipping.
- Finish by adding butter and garlic near the end for flavor, not while searing. This avoids burning the butter or garlic.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan – I prefer this because it gets hot evenly and makes searing easy.
- Paper towels – to pat the meat dry for better browning.
- Tongs or a spatula – helps turn the meat without breaking apart the bites.
- Measuring spoons and knife – for seasoning and chopping garlic and parsley.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar instead of Worcestershire for different umami flavors.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for some heat.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra richness.
- Replace parsley with cilantro or chives for a different fresh note.
Steak Bites Made With Tender Stew Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds tender stew beef (cut into bite-sized cubes if not already)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 20 minutes. It’s quick, perfect for a hearty snack or a fast meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Steak Bites:
Start by patting the stew meat cubes dry with paper towels to help them get a nice sear. Season the beef evenly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you choose to use it.
2. Sear the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Place the beef cubes in a single layer, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a brown crust, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes to brown all sides.
3. Add Garlic Butter and Finish Cooking:
Lower the heat to medium, then add the butter, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, spooning the garlic butter over the beef so all the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the steak bites. Serve them right away as a tasty appetizer, or enjoy them over a fresh salad or your favorite side dish.
Can I Use Frozen Stew Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen stew meat, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat the meat dry afterward to get a good sear.
How Should I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep them tender and juicy.
Can I Substitute the Worcestershire Sauce?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, try soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar umami flavor boost.
How Can I Make These Steak Bites Spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes when seasoning the beef for a nice kick of heat without overpowering the rich flavors.
