These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of heaven! Juicy steak is cooked to perfection and tossed in a buttery garlic sauce with a kick of Cajun spice.
You won’t believe how fast they disappear once you serve them. I can’t help but pop a few before dinner, and let’s be real, you’ll probably do the same! 😄
Cooking these bites is super easy. Just sear the steak, whip up the sauce, and toss them together. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is tender and works great in this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, ribeye or tenderloin also work well. For a budget-friendly option, try chuck steak, though it may need a little longer to cook completely tender.
Cajun Seasoning: If you want to adjust the spice level, you can make your own blend with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper. Alternatively, store-bought spices like Creole seasoning will also impart lovely flavors.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter because it allows me to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can use olive oil or vegan butter instead.
Olive Oil: This is great for searing, but if you don’t have it, avocado oil or canola oil are good substitutes due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Steak Bites?
Searing steak bites correctly is key to achieving that delicious crust. The trick is to listen to your skillet! Ensure it’s hot enough before adding the steak.
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add steak bites in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side without moving them, allowing a nice crust to form.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to maintain high heat for that perfect sear! Enjoy this process; it makes the bites wonderfully tasty!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish—quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing the cubed sirloin steak in a large bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the meat. Toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the spices. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the steak but not smoking. If your skillet is too small, you might need to cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding—this helps to get a nice sear.
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
Once the skillet is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes so they can brown nicely. After that, flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet you used for the steak. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Toss in the Steak:
Now it’s time to add the steak bites back into the skillet. Toss them around in the garlic butter to ensure they’re all coated and infused with that delicious flavor. Let them cook for one more minute to bring everything together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them hot and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can use other cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so adjust accordingly to achieve your desired doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own blend with equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for some kick. Adjust the cayenne to your spice preference. Alternatively, you can use other seasoning mixes like Creole or even a simple steak seasoning if that’s what you have on hand!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the steak’s tenderness and to avoid drying it out. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the meat.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding extra cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning. You could also include some chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to bump up the spice level. Just be careful to taste as you go!
