Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are flavorful little pieces of steak cooked to perfection. They are tossed in a tasty garlic butter sauce with a touch of Cajun spice. Yum!
These bites are great for a quick dinner or as snacks for friends. I always end up eating way more than I planned. Who can resist that buttery goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great for steak bites due to its tenderness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, consider using flank steak or chicken breast instead. Both work well with the Cajun seasoning.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy Cajun seasoning, but making your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano is easy. If you prefer, try another spice blend like Creole seasoning for a different kick.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for searing, but you can use canola or avocado oil as substitutes if needed. Both have high smoke points and will work just fine.
Unsalted Butter: This is key for the garlic butter sauce. If you want to make it dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can be great alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Can You Sear Steak Perfectly?
Searing steak is essential for great flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil—this ensures a good sear. Test by sprinkling a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary. This keeps the temperature steady and helps you achieve that nice brown crust.
- Once added, don’t move the steak bites around too much. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes on each side for even browning.
Mastering the sear is the key to flavorful steak bites that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking experience.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 20-25 minutes. Quick and delicious, you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak Bites:
Start by placing the bite-sized steak pieces in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the steak. Toss everything together until the steak bites are well-coated in the seasoning. This step is key to packing in that flavorful Cajun taste!
2. Sear the Steak:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; this helps them sear nicely. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Once the steak bites are nicely browned, lower the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well and let the butter melt while the garlic cooks for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. This will create a delicious sauce!
4. Toss in the Sauce:
Gently toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce until they’re all coated. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so they soak up all those yummy flavors. Don’t rush this step; good things take time!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your steak bites with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them immediately, and feel free to add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin works great for this recipe, you can use ribeye, flank steak, or even tenderloin for a more tender bite. Just adjust cooking times if using a thicker cut, ensuring it’s cooked to your desired doneness.
What if I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. Alternatively, try using a mix of Italian seasoning and a pinch of cayenne for a different flavor profile. Adjust to your heat preference!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Leftover steak bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter or oil to maintain the moisture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To increase the heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce when tossing the steak bites in the garlic butter, or increase the amount of Cajun seasoning. Just be cautious and taste as you go to find your ideal spice level!
