Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a tasty treat! They’re tender chunks of steak coated in a flavorful Cajun spice mix and cooked in rich garlic butter. Yum!
These bites are perfect for a quick dinner or an awesome snack while watching your favorite show. Trust me, it’s hard to just eat one! 😋
I love making these when I want something simple yet impressive. They cook up super fast and pair well with veggies or bread. Happy cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best here for tender, juicy bites. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use flank steak, but try to cook it less to avoid toughness.
Cajun Seasoning: The star of this dish! If you’re out, mix equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a homemade version. Make it milder by reducing the cayenne if you prefer less heat.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter for better control over seasoning. You could also swap in olive oil if you want a lighter option or make it dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor! If you’re in a rush, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh is always better for taste.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
A great sear locks in flavor and makes your steak bites delicious! To achieve this:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the butter. A hot pan creates that appealing brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This allows each piece to sear properly rather than steam.
- Let the steak sit without moving it for the first 2-3 minutes on each side. Patience pays off with a perfect crust!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 pounds steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes around 15 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes of cooking, making a total of about 30 minutes to whip up these tasty Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized pieces of steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to toss the steak so that every piece gets coated evenly in the seasoning. This will give your bites that yummy Cajun flavor!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. If your skillet isn’t big enough, it’s better to cook them in batches so they sear nicely instead of steaming. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a delicious brown crust and are cooked to your liking.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Once the steak bites are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine and Serve:
Next, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and return the cooked steak bites back to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the steak is well-coated in the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through. Finally, take it off the heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use cuts like filet mignon, flank steak, or even top round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut and thickness of the meat.
What if I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own blend using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano. Start with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, and a pinch each of the other spices to taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
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 to maintain their tenderness, or you can microwave them for a quick fix, adding a splash of water to help rehydrate the meat.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the steak bites and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Store them separately in the fridge and warm them up together in a skillet when you’re ready to eat.
