Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Gnocchi is a rich and satisfying dish featuring tender, seared steak bites and golden, pan-fried gnocchi tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. With just one pan and 25 minutes, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors, making it perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients.
- One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes and more convenience.
- Crispy & Tender – Golden gnocchi and juicy steak bites create the perfect texture contrast.
- Garlic Butter Perfection – The sauce enhances the flavors with rich, savory goodness.
- Customizable – Add vegetables or swap proteins for a versatile meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Sear the Gnocchi: Heat 1 tablespoon butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add gnocchi and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Steak Bites: In the same skillet, add steak bites. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return crispy gnocchi to the pan and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Steak Gnocchi – Stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella for a melty, cheesy twist.
- Vegetable Addition – Add mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- Different Proteins – Try shrimp or chicken instead of steak.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter for best results. Microwave in short bursts if needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as gnocchi may become soggy when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, but thaw it first or cook directly in the skillet, adding an extra minute or two.
What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak work best for tender, flavorful bites.
How do I keep the gnocchi crispy?
Use a hot skillet, avoid overcrowding, and let the gnocchi brown before stirring.
Can I use pre-cooked gnocchi?
Yes, but fresh gnocchi will crisp up better in the pan.
What should I serve with this dish?
Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan cheese.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer—medium-rare is 130-135°F, medium is 135-145°F.
Can I make this in advance?
For best results, cook fresh. However, you can prep the steak and gnocchi separately and combine them when reheating.
What’s a good wine pairing?
A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or a light Pinot Noir pairs well with the steak.
How do I prevent steak from drying out?
Sear at high heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Gnocchi is the ultimate one-pan meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in under 30 minutes. With tender steak, crispy gnocchi, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal!
