Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy pieces of steak cooked to perfection with a kick of Cajun spice. The garlic butter adds a rich flavor that makes this dish irresistible!
These bites are perfect for a quick dinner or a game day snack. I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can grab one while saying, “Just one more!” 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye give great flavor, but you could switch to flank steak for a leaner option. If you’re on a budget, look for chuck steak—it’s still delicious when cooked right.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy pre-made Cajun seasoning, or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme. This lets you adjust the spice to your liking!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, but feel free to use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. They work fine for high-heat cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control of saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based alternative like olive oil or coconut oil.
How Do I Sear Steak for the Best Flavor and Texture?
Searing is key to getting that nice brown crust full of flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet before adding any oil; it should be hot enough that the oil shimmers.
- Add the steak in a single layer—cooking in batches if needed helps prevent steaming.
- Don’t move the steak around while it cooks; let it sear for 2-3 minutes per side until it’s browned.
- After searing, you can adjust the heat if needed to avoid burning.
Perfectly seared steak bites make every bite taste incredible, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 pound steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll need 5 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing your bite-sized steak cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the steak, then add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the spices. This will give your bites a nice kick of flavor!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step adds a delicious garlic flavor to the sauce.
4. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and add in the Worcestershire sauce. Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce so they are well coated. Cook everything together for an additional minute, just to heat everything through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them immediately and enjoy this flavorful dish!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use filet mignon, flank steak, or even skirt steak. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on the cut and desired doneness, so keep an eye on them!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick alternative by combining equal parts of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. For a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste. This will give you a flavorful substitute!
How Can I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to help maintain moisture.
Can I Make These Steak Bites Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some hot sauce to the butter sauce for extra kick. If you like a smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of chipotle powder or smoked paprika as well!
