Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites

These Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites are tender, caramelized, and packed with bold flavor! Seared to perfection and coated in a sweet-savory glaze, they’re perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even for meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in under 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – A delicious steak dish in just 20 minutes.
  • Sticky & Caramelized – The glaze thickens into a rich, glossy coating.
  • Tender, Juicy Steak – Bite-sized pieces seared to perfection.
  • Versatile – Great as an appetizer, over rice, or in wraps.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

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

For the Steak Bites:

  • Sirloin steak (or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes)
  • Salt & black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Cornstarch (helps with crispiness)
  • Olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • Butter (for extra richness)

For the Sweet and Sticky Glaze:

  • Soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • Brown sugar (or honey)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Ginger (grated, optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (for a slight kick)
  • Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Sesame oil (adds depth)
  • Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water, to thicken)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Green onions (chopped)
  • Sesame seeds
  • Red chili flakes

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

  1. Season the Steak – Toss steak pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
  2. Heat Oil in a Skillet – Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the Steak – Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sticky Glaze

  1. Sauté Garlic & Ginger – In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds.
  2. Add Sauce Ingredients – Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  3. Thicken the Sauce – Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 3: Combine & Serve

  1. Return Steak to the Pan – Toss steak bites in the glaze until fully coated.
  2. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and extra red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version – Add extra red pepper flakes or Sriracha for heat.
  • Garlic Butter Steak Bites – Skip the sweet glaze and toss in garlic butter.
  • Teriyaki Style – Add pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
  • Asian-Inspired Bowl – Serve over steamed rice or noodles with stir-fried veggies.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Ribeye, NY strip, or tenderloin work well for extra tenderness.

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

Pat steak bites dry before cooking and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! Swap brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free alternative.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use all olive oil instead of butter.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

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

What can I serve with steak bites?

Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or garlic noodles.

Can I marinate the steak first?

Yes! Marinate in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor.

How do I keep steak from getting chewy?

Use a quick, high-heat sear and don’t overcook past medium-rare to medium.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Stir-fry bell peppers, onions, or broccoli along with the sauce.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan gives the best sear.

Conclusion

These Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites are packed with bold, savory-sweet flavors, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal or party appetizer. Whether you serve them over rice, with veggies, or as finger food, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality steak at home!

Print

Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites are juicy, caramelized, and packed with flavor, coated in a savory-sweet garlic honey glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak Bites:

  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye, strip steak), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crispiness)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sweet and Sticky Sauce:

  • ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for depth of flavor)

For Garnish:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

  1. In a bowl, toss steak cubes with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cornstarch (if using).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear steak bites in a single layer for 2 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sticky Sauce

  1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until thick and glossy.

Step 3: Coat & Serve

  1. Return steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce.
  2. Cook for 1-2 more minutes, until heated through.
  3. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Step 4: Enjoy!

  • Serve over rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
  • Pair with a side of garlic butter potatoes or a crisp salad!

Notes

  • Want it spicier? Add Sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Extra crispy? Use cornstarch before cooking.
  • Meal prep friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a pan.


Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star