Can I make Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites without a smoker?

Yes, but the flavor will be different. You can use a low oven and finish the steak bites in a cast iron skillet, but you’ll miss the gentle smoke that gives these BBQ steak bites their depth. If you go this route, add a small pinch of smoked paprika to the rub to compensate slightly.

What cut of steak works best if I don’t have filet?

Filet is ideal because it stays tender during the long, low cook, but a well-trimmed sirloin is a solid substitute. Expect a firmer bite and a slightly beefier chew, which some people actually prefer in smoked steak bites. Avoid very fatty cuts unless you’re willing to trim aggressively.

Why did my steak bites turn out sweet but not smoky?

This usually means the sauce went on too early or the smoke time was rushed. The steak needs time in the smoker on its own so the surface can absorb smoke before any sugar is added. Once the glaze is on, the smoke becomes background, not the main flavor.

Can I prep Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites ahead of time?

You can cut and season the steak a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated, uncovered. Don’t add the sauce or sugar until cooking day, or the surface will soften and won’t smoke properly. These are best cooked fresh, but they hold well for short periods once finished.

Is it normal for the glaze to look loose at first?

Yes, that’s normal. The sauce tightens as the butter melts and the sugar cooks down, especially in a cast iron pan. If you pull it too early, it will look thin; give it a little more time until it coats the steak bites instead of pooling.

Sweet and Sticky Steak Bites – 5-Star Easy Dinner Recipe You’ll Love

Description

Tender steak bites smoked low and slow, then finished in a glossy BBQ glaze with butter and brown sugar. Built for deep beef flavor, sticky edges, and confident home cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

4 beef filet steaks, about 2 inches thick, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons beef rub or equal parts salt, pepper, and garlic powder
2 tablespoons sweet BBQ-style rub
2 tablespoons charcoal or pepper-forward rub
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup butter

Cook Mode Keep your screen awake while you cook

Instructions

Preheat the smoker to 225°F and allow it to stabilize.
Trim any silverskin from the steaks and cut into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking.
Season the steak bites, coating the tops and bottoms first, then the sides, and place them on a cooling rack.
Smoke the steak bites until they reach about 120°F and the exterior feels firm but springy.
Transfer the steak bites to a cast iron skillet and add the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and butter.
Return the skillet to the smoker and cook until the glaze tightens and the steak reaches about 130°F.
Remove from heat once the sauce coats the steak bites cleanly and serve warm.

Notes

Do not add the sauce too early or the sugar may burn.
If substituting sirloin for filet, expect a firmer texture.
Let the glaze tighten fully before removing from heat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 730
Sugar: 26 g
Sodium: 585 mg
Fat: 45 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 47 g
Cholesterol: 168 mg