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Garlic Herb Steak Bites High-Protein Meal Prep – Simple, Flavorful, and Ready for the Week

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds beef sirloin, New York strip, or top round, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1/2 lemon, for finishing
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
  • Optional sides for meal prep: steamed green beans or broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes or rice, and a squeeze of extra lemon

Method
 

  1. Trim and cube the steak: Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Trim any large bits of fat and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
  2. Season generously: In a bowl, toss the steak with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Preheat your pan: Heat a large heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat until hot. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  4. Work in batches: Add steak bites in a single layer with space between pieces. Don’t crowd the pan. Sear for 2 minutes without moving, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until browned outside and medium-rare to medium inside. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining steak.
  5. Make the garlic herb butter: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the pan. Once melted, add garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant (not brown). Stir in parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Coat the steak: Return steak bites (and any juices) to the pan. Toss to coat in the garlic herb butter for 30–60 seconds. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Taste and adjust salt.
  7. Prep your sides: While the steak rests, steam green beans or broccoli until crisp-tender, and cook rice or roast sweet potatoes. Keep it simple and lightly seasoned so the steak shines.
  8. Portion for the week: Divide steak and sides into 4–5 meal-prep containers. Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge if you like.