Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites

Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites are tender, caramelized, and packed with bold flavors. Seared to perfection and coated in a deliciously sticky sauce, these steak bites make a quick and satisfying meal or appetizer. Serve them over rice, alongside veggies, or enjoy them as a protein-packed snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfectly Tender – A quick sear locks in juices while the sauce adds incredible flavor.
• Sweet & Savory Balance – The sauce combines brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic for the perfect sticky glaze.
• Versatile Dish – Serve as a main course, appetizer, or meal prep option.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A guaranteed hit for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Steak Bites:

• Sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak), cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Butter

For the Sweet & Sticky Sauce:

• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Honey
• Rice vinegar
• Cornstarch (for thickening)

Directions

1. Prepare the Steak

1. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Sear the Steak Bites

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Sweet & Sticky Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic (and ginger, if using) for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir it into the sauce to thicken.

4. Coat the Steak & Serve

1. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the sticky sauce.
2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
3. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Teriyaki Style – Add pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
• Garlic Butter Version – Increase the garlic and add extra butter for richness.
• Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly – Swap honey and brown sugar for a sugar-free alternative.
• Different Meats – Try with chicken, pork, or shrimp for variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts.

FAQs

What’s the best steak for this recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are great choices for tenderness and flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the steak bites and sauce separately, then combine when ready to serve.

Can I use pre-cut stew meat?

Stew meat is tougher and better suited for slow cooking, so a more tender cut is recommended.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slurry or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the steak bites at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, then toss in the sauce.

What can I serve with steak bites?

Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or noodles all pair well.

Can I grill these instead?

Yes! Skewer the steak bites and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?

Cook over high heat quickly and remove from the pan as soon as it reaches medium-rare or medium doneness.

What’s the best way to get a good sear?

Make sure the steak is completely dry before cooking and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely! Just adjust seasoning as needed for balance.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites are a fast, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. With a rich, caramelized sauce and juicy steak, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!

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