These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch! Juicy pieces of steak are seared and then tossed in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a dash of Cajun spice.
You won’t believe how easy they are to make! I love serving them with a side of veggies or just popping them in my mouth straight off the pan. Who says dinner can’t be a little fun? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great for steak bites, as it’s tender and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, consider using flank steak or tenderloin. For a budget-friendly choice, try chuck steak, but it will need to be cooked longer to ensure tenderness.
Cajun Seasoning: This mix adds fantastic flavor. If you don’t have it, make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Adjust the heat to your liking! If you prefer milder flavors, try Italian seasoning instead.
Olive Oil: A standard in cooking, it adds healthy fats. You can replace it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even butter for a richer flavor—just be careful not to burn it.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here, but you can swap it for ghee or even a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. In a pinch, use garlic powder, but about a teaspoon will do. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Steak Bites?
Searing steak bites perfectly is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a hot skillet to create that nice crust. Medium-high heat works best.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Each piece needs contact with the skillet for a good sear.
- Let the steak cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side. Resist the urge to move them around too much!
- Cook until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 130°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Following these tips will help you achieve flavorful, well-cooked steak bites every time!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnishing:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 10 minutes cooking the steak bites to juicy perfection. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by placing the bite-sized cubes of sirloin steak in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the steak. Toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning. This is where your steak gets its flavorful kick!
2. Sear the Steak:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Make sure not to crowd the pan; if you have too many, it’s better to cook them in batches. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they form a nice brown crust and are cooked to your liking.
3. Add the Garlic Butter:
After the steak bites are cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the garlic cook for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—this will bring out that lovely garlic flavor!
4. Toss and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the garlic butter over the steak bites, tossing them gently to make sure they’re all coated. Finish off by garnishing with chopped parsley for a fresh, bright touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin works great, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or flank steak. Just keep in mind that different cuts have varying levels of tenderness and fat, which can affect cooking time and flavor.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re looking for less heat, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend. Alternatively, for extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce while cooking!
Can I Make These Steak Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture. If you want to prep ahead, you can marinate the steak cubes in the seasoning for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just sear and prepare them when you’re ready to serve!
What to Serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites go well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious garlic butter. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables make for a nice, balanced meal as well.
