Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While top sirloin, sirloin tips, and tenderloin work best for their tenderness, you could use ribeye, New York strip, or even chuck roast (though chuck will need longer cooking). The key is cutting the meat into uniform pieces and not overcooking. For tougher cuts, consider marinating beforehand to help tenderize.

My sauce isn't thickening properly. What went wrong?

The most common issue is not bringing the sauce to a complete boil after adding the cornstarch mixture. Cornstarch needs to reach boiling temperature to activate its thickening properties. Another possibility is that your cornstarch mixture wasn't well combined before adding it to the pan. Always mix cornstarch with cold liquid until completely smooth before adding to hot liquids.

Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

You can prepare components ahead, but I recommend final assembly just before serving. Cook the steak bites and store them separately from the prepared sauce (without the cornstarch). When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken, then gently warm the steak bites in the sauce just until heated through.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute tamari for the soy sauce and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten-free (most commercial Worcestershire contains gluten). Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Steak Bites and Onion Garlic Sauce Recipe

Name: Steak Bites and Onion Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Beef; 1 ½ pounds top sirloin, sirloin tips, or beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sauce; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced (about ½ cup); 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 ¼ cups (18 ounces / 540 g) beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Thickener; ¼ cup cold water; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; Garnish; parsley, chopped for garnish

Tender, juicy cubes of steak swimming in a rich, savory onion-garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Steak Bites recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight into a restaurant-quality dinner experience in just 35 minutes. The melt-in-your-mouth beef paired with a silky, flavor-packed sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Satisfying: From prep to plate in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: These steak bites deliver the flavor and texture you’d expect from a steakhouse, but at a fraction of the cost.
Versatile Serving Options: Works beautifully over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, giving you multiple meal options with one fantastic recipe.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist these savory, tender steak bites swimming in that incredible sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Steak: Top sirloin, sirloin tips, or beef tenderloin works best here. The higher quality cut you use, the more tender your bites will be. Look for good marbling for the best flavor.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These simple seasonings allow the natural flavor of the beef to shine while enhancing its natural savoriness.
Vegetable Oil: Has a high smoke point that’s perfect for searing the steak at high temperatures without burning.
Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. The milk solids in butter contribute a nutty flavor that oil alone can’t provide.
Yellow Onion: Creates a sweet foundation for the sauce. Yellow onions develop a wonderful sweetness when cooked down that balances the savory elements.
Garlic: Provides that aromatic punch that makes the sauce irresistible. Fresh is always best for maximum flavor.
Beef Broth: Forms the base of our sauce, adding meaty depth and richness. Use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity with its unique blend of vinegar, molasses, and anchovies. It’s the secret ingredient that makes people ask, “What’s in this?”
Soy Sauce: Brings umami and saltiness that enhances the beefiness of the dish.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a silky, coat-the-back-of-a-spoon consistency that clings beautifully to the steak bites.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color to the final dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Protein Options

Swap the beef for chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Add Some Heat

Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.

Mushroom Lover’s Version

Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms when cooking the onions for an earthy, umami-packed variation that’s absolutely divine.

Wine-Enhanced Sauce

Replace ¼ cup of the beef broth with dry red wine for a more complex, sophisticated flavor profile.

How to Make Steak Bites and Onion Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak

Pat your beef cubes dry with paper towels – this is crucial for achieving a good sear! Season them evenly with salt and pepper, making sure each piece gets some love.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil, and wait until it’s shimmering hot. Place your steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed – don’t crowd the pan!) and let them sear for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re looking for a beautiful brown crust on all sides while keeping the center juicy. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the pan. Once melted, add your diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for just one more minute until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Use your spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s pure flavor! Let it simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly drizzle this mixture into the skillet while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a boil to activate the thickening power of the cornstarch.

Step 6: Reunite and Serve

Once the sauce is bubbling, return your steak bites (and any accumulated juices) to the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer just until the steak is heated through, about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over your favorite starch.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Dry Meat = Better Sear: Always pat your steak cubes completely dry before seasoning and cooking. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing, robbing you of flavor and texture.
Meat Temperature Matters: For the juiciest results, let your steak come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
The Resting Period: While it’s tempting to dig in immediately, letting the finished dish rest for 3-5 minutes allows the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.
Cut Against the Grain: When cutting your steak into cubes, be sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.

How to Serve

The beauty of this versatile dish is how well it pairs with so many sides:

Starchy Companions

Serve over buttery mashed potatoes, allowing that luscious sauce to mingle with every bite. Egg noodles make an excellent bed for these steak bites, catching every drop of sauce. Steamed rice or creamy polenta also work wonderfully.

Veggie Sides

Balance the richness with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Bread Options

Don’t forget some crusty bread or dinner rolls for sopping up every last bit of that incredible sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop nicely as they sit, making for excellent next-day leftovers.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. The texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating

The key to reheating without overcooking the steak is gentle heat. Warm leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave at 50% power in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While top sirloin, sirloin tips, and tenderloin work best for their tenderness, you could use ribeye, New York strip, or even chuck roast (though chuck will need longer cooking). The key is cutting the meat into uniform pieces and not overcooking. For tougher cuts, consider marinating beforehand to help tenderize.
My sauce isn’t thickening properly. What went wrong?

The most common issue is not bringing the sauce to a complete boil after adding the cornstarch mixture. Cornstarch needs to reach boiling temperature to activate its thickening properties. Another possibility is that your cornstarch mixture wasn’t well combined before adding it to the pan. Always mix cornstarch with cold liquid until completely smooth before adding to hot liquids.
Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

You can prepare components ahead, but I recommend final assembly just before serving. Cook the steak bites and store them separately from the prepared sauce (without the cornstarch). When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken, then gently warm the steak bites in the sauce just until heated through.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute tamari for the soy sauce and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten-free (most commercial Worcestershire contains gluten). Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Steak Bites and Onion Garlic Sauce recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a meal that feels special enough for company but easy enough for weeknights. The combination of tender beef and that velvety, flavor-packed sauce creates pure comfort food magic that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Give it a try tonight and watch as it quickly becomes a regular request in your home!