Step-by-Step Preparation

First Step: PREPARE THE STEAK

1. Cut the Steak into Bites: Start by selecting your favorite steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak are great choices). Trim off any excess fat and cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. This allows the steak to cook quickly and evenly.
2. Season the Steak: Place the steak cubes in a bowl and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the soy sauce to enhance the umami flavor and give the steak a deeper richness. Toss the steak cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Second Step: COOK THE STEAK BITES

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to become hot, but not smoking. You want the oil to shimmer, but it should not burn.
2. Sear the Steak Bites: Add the steak cubes to the pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the steak bites sear properly. Let the steak cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side to get a nice brown crust.
3. Flip and Finish Cooking: After 2-3 minutes, flip the steak bites over to cook the other side. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the steak reaches your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C). If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Remove and Rest: Once the steak bites are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Let the steak rest for a few minutes to retain its juices and maintain tenderness.

Third Step: MAKE THE GARLIC BUTTER SAUCE

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to add extra flavor to the sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and fresh thyme or rosemary (if using). Let the sauce simmer for another minute to meld the flavors together.

Final Step: COMBINE THE STEAK WITH THE GARLIC BUTTER

1. Return the Steak to the Pan: Add the cooked steak bites back into the pan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the steak bites in the sauce to coat them evenly, making sure every piece is covered in the fragrant, buttery goodness.
2. Finish with Parsley: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the steak bites for added color and freshness. The parsley also provides a pleasant contrast to the richness of the garlic butter.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the garlic butter steak bites immediately while they’re still hot. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus if desired. These steak bites pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.