Cheesy Butter Steak Bites

Texas Roadhouse-Inspired Cheesy Butter Steak Bites bring the bold, savory flavors of a Texas steakhouse right into your kitchen. These tender, juicy pieces of sirloin are perfectly seared, coated in rich melted butter, and topped with gooey cheddar cheese for an easy yet impressive dish. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe delivers satisfying, flavorful steak bites in under 30 minutes.

I first tried this recipe one busy evening when I craved restaurant-quality steak without the hassle. Now it’s a regular in my dinner rotation because it tastes indulgent but is so straightforward to make.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak: 1 pound, tender and flavorful, opt for well-marbled meat for juiciness
• Unsalted butter: half a cup adds richness and smooth coating, fresh butter from a trusted brand melts best
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons helps prevent butter from burning and aids in searing
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon infuses the steak with savory depth, use a quality, finely ground version
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon enhances umami and balances flavors
• Salt and black pepper: to taste, essential for seasoning, freshly ground black pepper offers the best taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup creates the gooey, cheesy topping, grate fresh cheese for optimal melt
• Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (optional) adds vibrant color and a fresh finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Skillet:

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the olive oil which prevents sticking and ensures a nice sear on the steak pieces.

Season the Steak:

Pat the sirloin steak dry with paper towels to promote browning. Cut the steak against the grain into uniform bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over all sides of the steak bits.

Sear the Steak Bites:

Place the seasoned steak pieces in the skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes until a golden-brown crust develops. Flip the steak bites and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. Work in batches if needed to maintain space.

Add the Butter:

Turn the heat down to low and carefully pour the melted butter over the seared steak bites. Gently toss or stir to coat every piece in butter, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes so the buttery flavor infuses thoroughly.

Add the Cheese:

Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the steak bites in the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat and allow the cheese to melt smoothly. This usually takes about a minute.

Serve and Garnish:

Remove the skillet from heat once the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for color and serve immediately to enjoy the steak bites at their juiciest.

Bookmark

Cheddar cheese plays a starring role here, contributing that irresistible gooey texture which enhances the buttery steak. One memorable dinner was a celebration where these steak bites stole the show, proving that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to two months. When reheating, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a pat of butter or in a covered dish in the oven to maintain juiciness. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ribeye or New York strip steaks if you want a fattier, richer taste. Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you want to reduce richness, halve the butter amount or use a lighter cheese variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Pair with fresh green salad or roasted asparagus for balance. For appetizers, place steak bites on a platter with toothpicks alongside dipping sauces such as ranch or garlic aioli.

Cultural Context

This recipe captures the hearty, bold flavors popularized by Texas Roadhouse restaurants, known for their generous butter sauces and rich cheeses paired with tender steak. It’s inspired by Southern comfort food traditions that highlight simplicity without sacrificing flavor.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Which steak cuts work best for this dish?

Sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, though ribeye or New York strip can add more marbling and richness.

→ How can I keep the steak bites juicy and tender?

Bring steak to room temperature before cooking, cut uniformly against the grain, and avoid overcooking to retain moisture.

→ What is the best method to melt the cheese evenly?

Sprinkle freshly shredded cheddar over the steak, then cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes to allow gentle, even melting.

→ Can I add a spicy twist to these steak bites?

Yes, substitute pepper jack cheese or sprinkle red pepper flakes during cooking for a flavorful kick.

→ How do I avoid burning the butter while cooking?

Lower the heat before adding butter and combine it with olive oil to stabilize cooking temperature and prevent burning.

→ Are there alternative cheeses that melt well with steak bites?

Mozzarella, gouda, and Monterey Jack offer smooth melting and unique flavors for variation.