These Easy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are packed with flavor! Tender steak pieces are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a zesty Cajun kick that makes your taste buds dance.
Seriously, who can resist those yummy, buttery bites? I love serving them with some crusty bread to soak up that sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to lick the plate! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great because it’s both flavorful and tender. If you want alternatives, try ribeye for more fat and richness, or tenderloin for a leaner option. Cube steak or flank steak can work too, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times.
Cajun Seasoning: This spices up the dish with its bold flavors. You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you prefer less heat, go easy on the cayenne or use Italian seasoning for a different take.
Unsalted Butter: I always opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If you need dairy-free options, use ghee or a vegan butter substitute. Just remember, it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the strongest flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but the taste will be less potent. Adjust to your preference!
How Do I Get the Steak Bites Perfectly Searing?
To achieve that beautiful golden crust, proper searing is key! Here’s how to do it effortlessly:
- First, dry the steak well. Moisture creates steam, which prevents browning.
- Heat the pan until it’s hot before adding oil. This creates a sear rather than a simmer.
- Cook the steak pieces in a single layer. Overcrowding lowers the temperature, leading to steaming.
- Only flip them once for a good sear – about 2-3 minutes per side is ideal. Feel free to check for doneness using a meat thermometer!
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously seared steak bites that will impress anyone!
Easy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients:
- 1½ lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 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 takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10-15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 20-25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Next, in a large bowl, toss the steak cubes with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if you like it!), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, making sure each piece is well coated.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottom pan and place it over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and watch for it to shimmer—this means it’s ready for the steak!
3. Sear the Steak Bites:
Carefully add the seasoned steak cubes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so if it’s too full, cook in batches. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Add the Garlic Butter:
After searing, lower the heat to medium and push the steak bites to one side of the skillet. Add the butter and minced garlic to the other side. Let the butter melt, and stir the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
5. Combine and Garnish:
Mix the steak bites in the garlic butter so they are well coated. Once done, remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a lovely finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are best enjoyed right away! Serve them on their own or with some crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
FAQ for Easy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use ribeye for a richer taste or tenderloin for a leaner option. Just adjust your cooking time if using a different cut!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by combining equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking for a milder flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the steak by seasoning it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before cooking for even searing!
