Description
Ready for an explosion of flavor? These Firecracker Steak Bites are a quick dinner idea that hits all the right notes — spicy, sweet, and incredibly savory. Perfect for busy weeknights, game-day spreads, or protein-packed snack cravings. With tender steak cubes coated in a sticky glaze, this easy recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite. It’s one of the best dinner ideas when you want something fast and fiery, and it easily fits into both party platters and low-effort meal prep. Fire up your skillet — this is food that excites!
Ingredients
1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip)
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water (for slurry)
2 tbsp oil (for searing)
2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 sprig fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes and season lightly with salt and pepper. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high and add oil. Sear steak in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, and 2 tbsp water.
4. Heat the sauce in a pan until it simmers, then stir in a slurry made with cornstarch and a little water. Cook until thick.
5. Return steak to the skillet and pour sauce over. Toss to coat and cook for 2–3 minutes until glossy.
6. Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, marinate steak in a tablespoon of soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
Don’t crowd the pan when searing or the steak will steam instead of brown.
Want more heat? Add a dash of hot sauce or finely diced chili to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: easy recipe, dinner ideas, steak bites, firecracker sauce