Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Lemon Zucchini Noodles

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

  1. Prepare the zucchini noodles – Spiralize the zucchini and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. 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.
  3. Make the garlic butter sauce – Reduce heat to medium and add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant.
  4. 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).
  5. Combine everything – Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss with the zucchini noodles.
  6. 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!

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Lemon Zucchini Noodles

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  • Author: clara
  • 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

Units Scale

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

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. 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

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter for 1 minute.
  4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini Noodles

  1. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the zucchini noodles, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and sauté for 2 minutes until just tender.
  3. Remove from heat, toss with lemon juice, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Plate the zucchini noodles and top with garlic butter steak bites.
  2. 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.

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