Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy little pieces of steak cooked to perfection. Tossed in a spicy garlic butter sauce, they’re packed with flavor and sure to please any meat lover!
You won’t believe how quickly these bites disappear at dinner. They’re so tasty, I usually have to make a double batch! Just pair them with some veggies or bread for a satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin Steak: This cut is perfect for bite-sized pieces due to its tenderness. If you want to substitute, flank steak or tenderloin would work well too. Ground meats might not hold up as nicely, so stick with steak cuts.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds that special kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper can replicate the flavor. Customize it based on how spicy you like your food!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for searing, but you could also use canola or avocado oil if you prefer. Both have high smoke points and are good alternatives.
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish. You can substitute with ghee or vegan butter if you’re looking for dairy-free options. They add richness, just like real butter!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use one-third of a teaspoon for each clove.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
Getting that perfect brown crust on your steak bites is key—it seals in flavor and moisture! Here are some steps to follow:
- Start by patting the steak cubes dry; moisture creates steam, preventing that beautiful sear.
- Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. The seasoning not only flavors the steak but also helps with browning.
- Heat the skillet until it’s hot, but not smoking. Adding the steak when the oil is too cool will cause it to steam rather than sear.
- Add the steak in a single layer; avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook in batches to maintain high heat.
- Let it sear without moving it for a couple of minutes. This helps to form a nice crust.
- Flip only once; constant flipping can prevent that nice browning you want. Cooking for 2-3 minutes per side usually gives a lovely medium-rare finish!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb beef sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 20 minutes. You’ll have mouthwatering steak bites ready in no time, perfect for a quick meal or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better when cooked. In a bowl, season the dried steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they’re browned, then flip them over and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until they reach your desired level of doneness. Medium-rare is recommended for the juiciest results!
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Once the steak bites are cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the garlic cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This is where the magic happens!
4. Combine and Serve:
Gently toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the delicious bites with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your Cajun garlic butter steak bites with a side of your choice, or over rice or salad. Dive in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sirloin, cuts like ribeye or filet mignon work wonderfully too. Just remember that different cuts may require different cooking times based on their thickness and fat content, so keep an eye on them while searing.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking to amp up the heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the Cajun seasoning. You can also serve the steak bites with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the steak cubes in the Cajun seasoning for a few hours (or overnight) in the fridge to enhance the flavors. However, it’s best to cook them fresh for optimal taste and texture. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before searing for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can make the steak tough.
