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
- Season the Steak – Toss steak pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
- Heat Oil in a Skillet – Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 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
- Sauté Garlic & Ginger – In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add Sauce Ingredients – Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Thicken the Sauce – Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Return Steak to the Pan – Toss steak bites in the glaze until fully coated.
- 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!
PrintSweet and Sticky Steak Bites
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!
- 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
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
- In a bowl, toss steak cubes with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cornstarch (if using).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 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
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until thick and glossy.
Step 3: Coat & Serve
- Return steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes, until heated through.
- 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.