If there’s one dish that delivers big comfort with minimal effort, it’s the Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet. Succulent steak and sweet, tender shrimp soak up a luscious garlic butter sauce, all in one pan and under 30 minutes. With a golden sear on every bite and a zesty burst from fresh parsley and lemon, this skillet shines as a party-worthy centerpiece or a weeknight treat. Every flavor is bold, buttery, and simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of making Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet is just how straightforward the shopping list is. Each ingredient plays a unique role in bringing out the textures and flavors that make this dinner catch everyone’s attention—no extras needed, just pure deliciousness!
- Sirloin steak (1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes): Tender, juicy, and perfect for quick cooking, this is the star protein of the dish.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Adds sweet, briny flavor and a lovely contrast in texture and color to the steak.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Melted butter hugs every bite, giving it that signature richness and glossy finish.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds serious depth and aroma—freshly minced garlic will make your kitchen smell incredible!
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds another layer of savory flavor.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings mild heat and a pop of color, making every bite bold and beautiful.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtly enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essentials for drawing out flavor in both steak and shrimp.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground is best; adds a bit of gentle heat.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): Lively herbs add color and freshness right at the end.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): A squeeze at the table brightens up all the richness—don’t skip it!
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet
Step 1: Season the Steak
Pat your steak bites completely dry with paper towels—this helps them achieve that dreamy golden sear. Sprinkle the cubes generously with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until every steak piece is beautifully coated; this flavorful crust is what makes Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet irresistible from the very first bite.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter starts to sizzle, add your steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid crowding). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, letting them develop a rich, caramelized exterior while staying juicy inside. Lift the steak out of the skillet and set aside—you’ll add them back soon.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp
In that same glorious skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds, until tantalizingly fragrant but not browned. Now, toss in the shrimp, nestling them into the garlic butter. Sauté the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and opaque. Work quickly here for perfect, tender shrimp.
Step 4: Finish and Toss Everything Together
It’s time for the grand finale: slide the reserved steak bites back into the skillet with the shrimp. Give everything a good toss, basting the steak and shrimp in all that garlicky, buttery goodness. Let them cook together for just 1 more minute to warm through and meld the flavors. Finish with a glitter of chopped fresh parsley.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Transfer your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet to a big platter or serve straight from the skillet. Don’t forget those lemon wedges; a quick squeeze over the top will make the flavors absolutely sing. Serve at once for maximum impact!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet
Garnishes
Brighten each plate with a shower of fresh parsley and a few wedges of lemon. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving adds a gourmet finishing touch and really highlights the buttery richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe is a natural with so many sides. Try it over steamed rice to soak up the extra garlic butter, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, or keep things fresh and light with a crisp green salad. Roasted vegetables make another easy and satisfying companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For an appetizer spin, serve the steak bites and shrimp with cocktail picks right from the skillet for a party platter. Or, make it a grain bowl—pile the skillet contents over quinoa or cauliflower rice, top with extra parsley and a drizzle of lemon for a colourful weeknight meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extras, store your Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon wedges separate to keep flavors fresh the next day!
Freezing
While steak and shrimp can both be frozen, shrimp is best enjoyed freshly cooked for optimal texture. If you do freeze, cool the dish completely and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter if needed to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long or they may become rubbery. Serve with a fresh squeeze of lemon and parsley for best flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken for steak in this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the steak cubes for bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or thighs. Adjust the cooking time for the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
What’s the best way to tell if the shrimp are done?
Shrimp cook very quickly—they’re done when they’ve turned from gray to opaque pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly and become a bit tough, so keep a close eye and cook only until just opaque.
How can I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet spicier?
For extra heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes with the seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter while cooking. You can also stir in a pinch of cayenne for a fiery kick!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as all your seasonings are certified gluten-free. It’s a great option for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
Can I use frozen shrimp or steak?
Frozen shrimp and steak work well, just be sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent you from getting that signature golden sear, so drying is key!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to gather your ingredients and bring this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Shrimp Skillet to your table. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier, and every buttery, garlicky bite is pure joy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this skillet dinner again and again!
