These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy pieces of steak cooked to perfection and tossed in a buttery, spicy sauce. They’re bursting with flavor from garlic and Cajun seasoning!
You’ll love how quick and easy this dish is. I often serve them with toothpicks for a fun appetizer. Just be careful—they disappear fast when friends are around! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are perfect choices for this dish. They both have great flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try flank steak, or for a more budget-friendly choice, chuck steak works well too.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust it to your spice level! It’s a great way to add some personal touch.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is a fantastic option for cooking this recipe, you could substitute it with canola or avocado oil. Both have good smoke points and will hold up well under high heat.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal as it gives you control over the saltiness. You can use ghee or plant-based butter as alternatives for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Steak Bites?
Getting a nice sear on your steak bites is all about preparation and technique! Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure to pat your steak cubes dry. This removes excess moisture that can prevent a good browning.
- Heat your skillet until it’s very hot. A shimmering oil indicates it’s ready. Don’t rush this step!
- When adding the steak bites, arrange them in a single layer. Overcrowding them will cause steaming instead of searing.
- Let them cook without moving for 2-3 minutes. This forms a nice crust. Flip them only once to get a uniform cook.
Feel free to experiment with cooking times based on your doneness preference! Enjoy your delicious steak bites!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 lbs steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes for cooking. In just about 20-22 minutes, you’ll have delicious Cajun garlic butter steak bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps to achieve a nice sear on the meat. Once dry, place the steak cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the steak and toss to coat evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every piece is well-seasoned.
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer—make sure not to overcrowd them. Allow them to sear without moving them for about 2-3 minutes to create a beautiful crust.
3. Flip and Add Flavor:
After 2-3 minutes, carefully flip the steak bites and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare is delicious!). Once done, reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir the mixture well, basting the steak bites with the melted butter and garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the steak bites with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a tasty main dish or appetizer. Enjoy the rich flavors and buttery garlic sauce—they’re sure to impress!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye works great for this recipe, you can also use flank steak, tenderloin, or even sirloin tips. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut and thickness of the pieces.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes, you can amp up the heat! Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or toss in some chopped jalapeños when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference for a kick that suits your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a bit of butter to keep them juicy and flavorful!
What Can I Serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites are versatile! Serve them over a bed of rice, alongside mashed potatoes, or with a fresh salad. You can also use them as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps for a fun twist!
