If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick to whip up yet bursting with bold flavors, the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection swim in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with fresh, lightly sautéed zucchini noodles that add a bright, healthy touch. It’s an unbeatable combination that feels indulgent yet stays light, perfect for anyone who loves a satisfying meal without the fuss. This recipe makes a fantastic meal prep option, so you can enjoy flavorsome leftovers all week long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe relies on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its magic. From the buttery garlic sauce that infuses each bite of steak, to the fresh zucchini noodles adding crispness and color, every item is thoughtfully chosen for maximum flavor and ease.
- 3 tbsp butter: Provides richness and the essential base for the garlic butter sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with that irresistible, aromatic garlic flavor.
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce: Adds a subtle salty depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor with a touch of seasoning finesse.
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or olive oil): Perfect for getting the steak beautifully seared without sticking.
- 1 lb sirloin steak (cut into bite size pieces): The star protein, tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, applied carefully since soy sauce provides some saltiness.
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the plate.
- 4 large zucchini (spiralized): The healthy, veggie-packed noodles that soak up the garlic butter sauce wonderfully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Start by melting butter and lightly browning the minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. This process allows the butter to become infused with deep, aromatic garlic flavor. Once the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden, stir in the garlic powder and soy sauce. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, then set it aside. This sauce will bring everything together with its rich, savory notes.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Now, heat the canola oil in a large cast iron skillet until it’s smoking hot. Add the bite-sized steak pieces carefully, giving them room to develop that perfect golden crust. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes without rushing, letting the high heat caramelize the edges beautifully. While cooking, season lightly with salt, keeping in mind the soy sauce’s sodium content will further season the beef.
Step 3: Coat the Steak in Garlic Butter
When your steak bites are nearly done, pour in about two-thirds of the garlic butter sauce you prepared earlier. Toss everything together so the steak absorbs all that garlicky, buttery goodness. Let the flavors meld and the steak finish cooking, then sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, herby lift.
Step 4: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Remove the steak from the pan and divide it into meal prep containers if you want to store or freeze. Using the same pan, add the spiralized zucchini noodles along with the remaining garlic butter sauce. Gently toss the noodles until they’re cooked just right — tender yet still holding some bite. Season lightly with salt as needed, and drain any excess water released by the zucchini before adding the noodles to your containers.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
I love finishing off this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a quick zest of lemon for a bright, citrusy pop that cuts through the richness. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a little heat if you’re craving it. These simple garnishes take the presentation and flavor to the next level, making every bite vibrant and well-rounded.
Side Dishes
Even though this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe can stand well on its own, pairing it with a crisp side salad or some roasted cherry tomatoes brings a fresh contrast. If you want a heartier meal, garlic mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread are perfect to scoop up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve your steak bites atop a bed of zucchini noodles twirled into neat nests on each plate. Alternatively, pack it all into lunch containers layered with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of microgreens for a gourmet meal prep. These thoughtful touches make the dish feel special, whether at home or out on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the steak and zucchini noodles in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy, you’ll find the flavors have even deepened as they sit together.
Freezing
While the zucchini noodles don’t freeze as well due to their water content, you can freeze the steak bites separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and prepare fresh zucchini noodles when you’re ready to eat for the best texture and flavor experience.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the steak tender and to warm the zucchini noodles without turning them mushy. Adding a splash of water or extra garlic butter helps maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if you can, as the texture of the noodles may suffer.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and budget-friendly, flank or ribeye steaks can also work well. Just be mindful of cooking times as thicker or tougher cuts might require adjustments.
Is it possible to use another vegetable instead of zucchini noodles?
Yes, spiralized sweet potatoes or carrots provide a nice alternative with a bit more sweetness. Just keep in mind their cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with a dairy-free option such as coconut oil or vegan butter. The garlic and soy sauce flavors will still shine through beautifully without the dairy.
Can this dish be made spicy?
Definitely! Adding red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet while cooking the steak takes this recipe up a fiery notch, perfect for spice lovers.
What’s the best way to spiralize zucchini noodles for this recipe?
Use a spiralizer if you have one for perfect noodles, but a julienne peeler or even a vegetable peeler can create thin strips that cook just as well. Just make sure to remove excess moisture before cooking to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe because it marries simple ingredients with bold flavor in such an effortless way. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this dish delivers on taste and ease every time. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Zucchini Noodles recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal prep option featuring tender sirloin steak bites seared to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Paired with lightly sautéed zucchini noodles, this dish is a low-carb, protein-packed dinner choice that’s perfect for busy weeknights or preparing meals ahead.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Steak and Zucchini Noodles
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or olive oil)
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite size pieces
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 4 large zucchini, spiralized
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low to medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until the garlic begins to brown and infuses the butter with its flavor. Stir in the garlic powder and low sodium soy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, then set aside.
- Heat Oil in Skillet: Add canola oil to a large cast iron skillet and heat over high. Ensure the oil is hot before proceeding to cook the steak to achieve a good sear.
- Sear Steak Bites: Add the sirloin steak pieces to the hot skillet. Cook approximately 1-2 minutes per side, allowing a golden brown crust to form. Lightly season the steak with salt, keeping in mind the soy sauce in the butter sauce adds additional saltiness.
- Add Garlic Butter Sauce: When the steak is nearly finished cooking, pour about two-thirds of the prepared garlic butter sauce over it. Stir to coat the steak evenly and allow the flavors to meld as the steak finishes cooking. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Remove and Divide Steak: Take the cooked steak bites out of the pan and portion them into meal prep containers for storage or serving.
- Cook Zucchini Noodles: Using the same skillet with any remaining sauce and browned bits, add the spiralized zucchini noodles and the remaining garlic butter sauce. Stir-fry the noodles until just cooked through and tender. Season with salt as needed. Drain off any excess water released by the noodles.
- Assemble Meal Prep: Divide the cooked zucchini noodles into the meal prep containers alongside the steak bites. Allow to cool before covering and refrigerating.
Notes
- Use sirloin steak or any tender cut that sears well for best results.
- Spiralize zucchini just before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
- Adjust salt carefully due to soy sauce contribution to sodium content.
- Can substitute canola oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Store meal prep containers in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve texture of zucchini noodles.
