These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are packed with yummy flavors! Juicy pieces of steak are coated in a tasty Cajun spice blend and sautéed in rich garlic butter. What’s not to love?
Cooking them is super easy! I like serving these bites as a fun appetizer or a quick dinner. Don’t be surprised if they disappear fast—everyone loves them! 🥩✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is a great choice for its tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider flank steak or ribeye. These cuts also work well but may have different cooking times.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds kick to the dish. If you prefer milder flavors, swap it out for a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. You can also make your own blend for freshness!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for searing, but you can use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have. They have a higher smoke point and won’t alter the flavor much.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your dish. However, if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt to taste. You could also try coconut oil for a dairy-free option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder or jarred minced garlic can work as substitutes. Just remember to adjust the amount since garlic powder is more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites?
Cooking the steak bites to perfection is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to do it right:
- Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before seasoning. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Heat the skillet thoroughly before adding the steak. You want that sizzle when the meat hits the pan!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This ensures a nice sear instead of steaming.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes, adjusting based on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer if you have one: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
By following these tips, you’ll have tender, juicy steak bites every time! Enjoy creating this dish!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of approximately 20 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak Bites:
Start by placing your bite-sized steak pieces in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over them, along with some salt and pepper. Toss everything together until all the pieces are well-coated in seasoning. This step adds a wonderful kick to the steak!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so you might need to do this in batches. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and reach your preferred doneness. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, turn down the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely. After the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can taste bitter.
4. Toss Steak Bites in Garlic Butter:
Now, it’s time to add the steak bites back into the skillet. Toss them around in the garlic butter for about another minute, letting them soak up all those tasty flavors. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Cajun garlic butter steak bites hot alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for this recipe, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut, so adjust accordingly to achieve your desired doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own by combining equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne to control the heat level based on your preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Avoid using the microwave if you can, as this can make the steak tough.
What Can I Serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, a simple green salad works great too!
