These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are little pieces of joy! Tender steak cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of Cajun spice makes for an exciting dish.
Honestly, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or game night. I love serving them with toothpicks—it’s like sharing bites of happiness with friends! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are great choices for this recipe. Sirloin is leaner, while ribeye is richer and more flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try flank steak or even chicken for a different twist.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a lovely kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can work just fine. You can adjust the spice level to your taste.
Butter: I recommend unsalted butter for better control over saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can replace it with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute!
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing, but if you run out, any other cooking oil like canola or avocado oil will do. They have high smoke points, which is great for frying.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
Searing the steak bites creates a mouthwatering crust and locks in juices. First, ensure your skillet is hot enough to seal the meat. Here are some tips for great searing:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high. A hot pan is key!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Let them sear without moving them for 2-3 minutes to form a crust.
- Flip only once to prevent them from losing juices.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook the steak bites. So in total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing the bite-sized steak pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the meat, and add salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the steak is well-coated in the spices—this is what gives it that delicious Cajun flavor!
2. Cook the Steak Bites:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook them in batches. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking.
3. Add the Garlic Butter:
Once the steak bites are cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic into the skillet. Stir everything together until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Make sure all the steak bites are coated in the lovely garlic butter mixture.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the steak bites to a serving plate. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye work best for tenderness and flavor, you can use cuts like flank steak or tenderloin. Just adjust cooking time as needed for thinner cuts, ensuring they don’t overcook.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Of course! If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce when mixing the garlic butter. You can also use a spicy Cajun blend to amp up the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them from drying out.
What Should I Serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These delicious steak bites pair wonderfully with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with sautéed vegetables or garlic bread to soak up the buttery sauce!
