These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are packed with flavor! Each tender piece of steak gets a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and a buttery richness that makes it irresistible.
Cooking these little bites is a quick way to impress dinner guests. Just sear them up in a pan and let the garlic butter do its magic—simple and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I recommend using sirloin or ribeye for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak or tenderloin also works well. For a budget-friendly alternative, go for chuck steak, but remember to cut it against the grain for tenderness!
Cajun Seasoning: Makes this dish pop! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level based on your preference!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil or vegan butter can be great substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly elevates the flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove), but fresh really is better for this recipe.
Fresh Parsley: It adds a nice touch of color and freshness. If parsley isn’t available, cilantro or green onions can make a good replacement.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust on My Steak Bites?
Searing the steak bites just right is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak bites. Medium-high heat is key!
- Add the steak in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook in batches.
- Let them cook without moving them for about 3-4 minutes to get that nice brown crust.
- Flip only once; resist the urge to keep moving them around!
Following these tips will give you steak bites that are perfectly seared, juicy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy cooking!
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 pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Garnishing:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in just about 20-25 minutes, you’ll have delicious Cajun garlic butter steak bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
In a medium bowl, take your bite-sized steak pieces. Sprinkle them with the Cajun seasoning, along with some salt and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated with the spices. This will give the meat great flavor!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Now, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. It’s best not to overcrowd the pan, so you might need to do this in batches. Sear the steak bites for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful brown and reach your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, take them out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In that same skillet (don’t clean it!), reduce the heat to medium and add the 4 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Next, return the delicious steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until they’re all nicely coated and warmed through.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites to give them a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Cajun garlic butter steak bites immediately while they’re still hot. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use cut from flank, tenderloin, or even cheaper cuts like skirt steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut’s thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the cayenne to your spice preference. This homemade mix will add a lovely kick to your steak bites!
How Should I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat to warm through, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough!
Can I Make These Steak Bites Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a dash of red pepper flakes as you cook. You could also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha or a spicy aioli, for an extra kick!
