If you love dishes that burst with bold flavors and combine sweet, savory, and buttery goodness in every bite, then you are going to adore this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe. Tender cubes of seared steak meet juicy pineapple chunks, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s deeply satisfying and perfect for any night of the week. It’s a quick one-pan wonder that’s equally impressive for a casual dinner or meal prepping ahead of busy days, with flavors that marry American comfort and Asian-inspired flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to effortlessly nailing this dish. Each element plays an important role, from the tender, juicy steak to the sweet and slightly caramelized pineapple that adds a touch of tropical sunshine. The garlic and butter create a mouthwatering sauce that ties everything together.
- 1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak: Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful bites.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a mild richness and helps achieve a perfect sear on the steak.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick of warmth and depth.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star of the sauce, offering a creamy, luscious texture.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts aromatic punch and savory depth.
- 1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks: Bring sweetness and a juicy contrast to the savory steak.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and a subtle saltiness to balance the pineapple’s sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional): Enhances the caramelization and adds a warm, molasses note.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish visually and adds fresh, herbal flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Steak
Start by cutting your chosen sirloin or ribeye into 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking. Season them generously with salt and black pepper, which will help bring out the meat’s natural flavors while preparing it for a fantastic sear in the pan.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding — work in batches if needed! Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until browned and caramelized on the outside but still juicy inside. Once done, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside temporarily to rest.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This buttery garlic base is the flavor powerhouse of the dish.
Step 4: Add Pineapple and Sauce Ingredients
Next, stir in your fresh pineapple chunks along with soy sauce and, if you like a touch more sweetness, brown sugar. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly and meld with the savory, garlicky butter sauce. This melding is what gives the dish its dynamic sweet-savory personality.
Step 5: Recombine Steak and Finish Cooking
Return the steak bites to the pan, tossing everything gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the steak is warmed through and coated in that irresistible garlic butter sauce. This final step ensures every bite is packed with juicy, flavorful goodness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley not only adds a burst of vibrant green color but also contributes a fresh, herbal lift that balances the richness of the butter and steak. These garnishes make the dish look inviting and taste even better.
Side Dishes
Serve these steak bites over fluffy white rice, nutty quinoa, or silky noodles to soak up all the garlicky pineapple sauce. Stir-fried vegetables or a crisp green salad are excellent companions to add texture and an extra layer of nutrition to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the garlic butter steak bites with pineapple inside lettuce wraps or on skewers for a party-ready appetizer. You can also pile them on top of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to balance flavors with some earthy notes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe stay delicious when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without worrying about freshness.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the steak and pineapple mixture separately for optimal texture. Place cooled components in freezer-safe containers or bags, and use within 2 months for the best flavor and quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium heat in a skillet to prevent the steak from drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain the best texture of the garlic butter sauce and pineapple.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like striploin or even tenderloin, just be mindful of cooking times to keep it juicy.
Is fresh pineapple necessary, or can I use canned?
Fresh pineapple is preferred because it caramelizes better and adds bright, fresh flavor. If using canned, drain it well and pat dry to reduce extra moisture for best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari is a great option) to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities without compromising on flavor.
How can I add extra flavor to the steak?
For a flavor boost, try marinating the steak cubes in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of pineapple juice for 30 minutes before cooking. It tenderizes the meat and adds a wonderful depth.
What’s the best way to get the steak bites nice and seared?
Make sure your pan and oil are hot before adding steak cubes, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing, so cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect caramelized crust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, bold flavors and textures that dance together beautifully, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe is a total winner. It’s quick, simple, and endlessly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this sweet-savory delight as much as I have!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Pineapple is a sweet and savory one-pan dish packed with tender seared steak, juicy pineapple chunks, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Steak
- 1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce & Pineapple
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Season Steak: Season steak cubes evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer, cooking them for 2–3 minutes per side until they are nicely browned but still juicy. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Remove cooked steak and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, then add unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, careful not to burn.
- Cook Pineapple Mixture: Stir in the fresh pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and brown sugar if using. Sauté this mixture for 2–3 minutes until the pineapple starts to caramelize slightly, adding a sweet and tangy depth to the sauce.
- Combine and Finish: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully for another 1–2 minutes so the steak heats through and becomes fully coated in the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley over the dish for a fresh finish and serve immediately while hot. Ideal over rice, noodles, or your choice of sides.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of pineapple juice for 30 minutes prior to cooking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired
