Short Description
Garlic butter steak bites with lemon zucchini noodles is a quick, flavorful, and low-carb meal featuring tender, juicy steak bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over fresh, zesty zucchini noodles. This one-pan dish is packed with protein and perfect for a healthy, satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Packed with flavor – Juicy steak with a buttery garlic sauce and tangy zucchini noodles.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly – A healthy alternative to traditional pasta.
- One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup with simple ingredients.
- Versatile – Customize with different proteins or veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Steak Bites:
- Sirloin or ribeye steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Lemon Zucchini Noodles:
- Zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
- Lemon juice and zest
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, optional)
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Prepare the zucchini noodles – Spiralize the zucchini and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cook the steak bites – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce – Reduce heat to medium and add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant.
- Sauté the zucchini noodles – Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and Parmesan (if using).
- Combine everything – Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss with the zucchini noodles.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Herb-infused – Use fresh thyme or rosemary in the garlic butter sauce.
- Extra protein – Toss in shrimp or grilled chicken.
- Creamy twist – Add a splash of heavy cream to the butter sauce.
- Cheesy version – Top with crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as zucchini noodles may become soggy.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon all work well.
How do I keep zucchini noodles from getting soggy?
Pat them dry before cooking and sauté them briefly to prevent overcooking.
Can I use frozen zucchini noodles?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Can I cook the steak bites in an air fryer?
Yes! Air-fry at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Can I use pre-spiralized zucchini?
Yes! Store-bought zucchini noodles save time but may have more moisture.
What other veggies go well with this dish?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter or extra olive oil instead of butter.
What can I serve with this meal?
Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of cauliflower rice.
Can I use lemon pepper seasoning instead of fresh lemon?
Yes! Lemon pepper seasoning adds extra zest and flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic butter steak bites with lemon zucchini noodles is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week. With juicy steak, zesty zucchini noodles, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Try it tonight for a low-carb, restaurant-quality meal at home!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak Bites with Lemon Zucchini Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Lemon Zucchini Noodles recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful low-carb meal. Juicy, tender steak bites are seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, then served over fresh zucchini noodles with a hint of lemon. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Lemon Zucchini Noodles:
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Steak Bites
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak cubes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes, and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 3: Cook the Zucchini Noodles
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini noodles, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and sauté for 2 minutes until just tender.
- Remove from heat, toss with lemon juice, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Plate the zucchini noodles and top with garlic butter steak bites.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, then serve immediately!
Notes
- Make It Creamier: Add 2 tbsp heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce.
- Zucchini Alternative: Use spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice for variety.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the zucchini.