Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a romantic and delicious dinner for two? My Valentine’s low carb garlic butter steak bites recipe is the perfect solution! These juicy steak bites are incredibly easy to make, ready in minutes, and packed with flavor. Best of all, they’re keto-friendly, so you can indulge without the guilt. The bright lemon-thyme twist elevates these steak bites from simple to spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Valentine’s Low Carb Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
This recipe is more than just steak and garlic butter; it’s an experience.
Quick to Prepare: You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy Valentine’s Day!
Romantic and Intimate: These steak bites are portioned perfectly for a cozy dinner for two.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while sticking to your dietary goals. Each bite is packed with flavor and healthy fats.
Unique Lemon-Thyme Twist: The addition of lemon juice balances the richness of the garlic butter, preventing it from being too heavy, and the fresh thyme adds an unexpected layer of aromatic complexity. This brightens up the whole dish.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ¼ lb. steak cut into 1-inch pieces (sirloin, tenderloin, ribeye, tritip)
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Let’s talk about some of the ingredients and how you can customize them to your liking.
Steak Cuts: You can use sirloin, tenderloin, ribeye, or tritip. Ribeye will have the most fat and flavor, making it incredibly juicy. Tenderloin (also known as beef tenderloin or filet mignon) will be the most tender but also the most expensive. Sirloin and tritip are more cost-effective options that are still delicious.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish. For those with dairy sensitivities, ghee or coconut oil are great dairy-free alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. I don’t recommend using garlic powder as a substitute; the flavor just isn’t the same.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor and health benefits. Look for a good quality brand readily available in the US.
How to Make Valentine’s Low Carb Garlic Butter Steak Bites for Two
Step 1: Sear the Steak
In a large skillet (I love using my cast iron skillet), heat olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer in the pan. Generously season your steak with salt and pepper – don’t be shy! This is crucial for developing a flavorful crust. Steak seasoning also works great if you want to add more flavor.
Step 2: Cook to Perfection
Cook the pieces of steak for 1-2 minutes per side or to your desired doneness. The goal is to get a beautiful sear on each side, thanks to the Maillard reaction! Try not to move the steak around too much; let it cook in a single layer, allowing it to develop a good crust. If your skillet is crowded, cook the steak in batches to maintain high heat and ensure even browning.
Achieving Doneness: Remember, the internal temperature is key. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 3: Garlic Butter Bliss
Reduce heat to low and add the butter and minced garlic. Stir until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. If it starts browning too quickly, remove the skillet from the heat temporarily.
Step 4: The Unique Twist
Right before serving, here comes the magic: squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steak bites and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. This bright, aromatic finish is what sets this recipe apart!
Achieving Perfect Steak Doneness
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat (carryover cooking), so pull it off a few degrees before your target temperature.
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-140°F (54-60°C)
- Medium: 140-150°F (60-65°C)
- Medium-Well: 150-160°F (65-71°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
- Use a hot skillet: Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the steak for a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches to maintain high heat and achieve even browning.
- Season generously: Properly season the steak with salt, pepper, or steak seasoning.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and thyme provide the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic: Add the garlic when the heat is low to avoid burning. Monitor constantly and remove from heat if browning too quickly.
- Rest the steak: Allowing the steak to rest briefly before serving helps retain juices.
- Lemon-Thyme Twist: Don’t skip the lemon and thyme, they make the dish really shine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the garlic: Keep heat low and stir constantly.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches.
- Using dull knives: Dull knives can result in an uneven steak cut.
- Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is essential for flavorful steak.
- Overcooking the steak: Use a meat thermometer.
- Skipping the resting period: Resting allows the juices to redistribute.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
- Low-Carb Sides: Cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, green beans, broccoli are all great choices.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley, extra thyme sprigs, and lemon wedges add a pop of color and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Storing: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating can help maintain moisture.
Conclusion
These Valentine’s low carb garlic butter steak bites are a surefire way to impress your loved one without spending hours in the kitchen. Quick, easy, low-carb, and incredibly flavorful, with that special lemon-thyme twist, this recipe is a winner. Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can easily master this dish. Feel free to experiment with different steak cuts or side dishes to make it your own. Happy Valentine’s Day! Share this recipe with your friends and be sure to explore my other delicious recipes. Speaking of delicious, if you’re looking for a delightful appetizer to start your romantic dinner, consider trying this creamy homemade hummus recipe.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about making the best garlic butter steak bites:
What’s the best cut of steak for garlic butter steak bites, and why?
Ribeye is a great choice due to its rich marbling, which results in a juicy and flavorful bite. Tenderloin is incredibly tender but pricier. Sirloin and tritip are more affordable options that still offer great flavor.
How do I ensure the steak bites are cooked to my desired doneness?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Refer to the temperature guide in the recipe for accurate doneness levels.
What are some easy low-carb side dishes to serve with this?
Cauliflower mash, zucchini noodles, green beans, and roasted broccoli are all excellent low-carb choices that complement the richness of the steak bites.
How should I store and reheat leftover steak bites to keep them tender?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating helps maintain moisture.
How can I prevent the garlic from burning while cooking?
Keep the heat low when adding the garlic and stir constantly. If it starts browning too quickly, remove the skillet from the heat temporarily.
What are the specific internal temperatures for rare, medium-rare, medium, and well-done steak bites?
Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C), Medium-Rare: 130-140°F (54-60°C), Medium: 140-150°F (60-65°C), Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+).
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. Steak is naturally low in carbs, and the added butter and olive oil contribute healthy fats. Just be mindful of your side dish choices to keep the overall carb count low. For another fantastic keto-friendly option, why not try our perfect roasted butternut squash?
Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
While you can use dried garlic in a pinch, fresh garlic provides a much more robust and complex flavor that’s essential to the recipe’s success. I highly recommend using fresh garlic for the best results. You can learn more about the characteristics and uses of garlic at Simply Recipes.
Valentine’s Low Carb Garlic Butter Steak Bites for Two
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet (I love using my cast iron skillet), heat olive oil over medium-high heat until the oil starts to shimmer in the pan.
- Generously season your steak with salt and pepper – don't be shy! Steak seasoning also works great if you want to add more flavor.
- Cook the pieces of steak for 1-2 minutes per side or to your desired doneness, until you get a beautiful sear on each side.
- Try not to move the steak around too much; let it cook in a single layer, allowing it to develop a good crust. If your skillet is crowded, cook the steak in batches to maintain high heat and ensure even browning.
- Reduce heat to low and add the butter and minced garlic. Stir until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. If it starts browning too quickly, remove the skillet from the heat temporarily.
- Right before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steak bites and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
Notes
Lia Monet is a food blogger, recipe developer, and the founder of EasyAsMeals, a food blog focused on easy recipes, quick dinners, and everyday home cooking. She creates tested, family-friendly recipes using simple ingredients to help busy families cook affordable and delicious meals at home.
