These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are packed with flavor! They’re super tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight treat or a fun appetizer.
Just imagine juicy steak pieces coated in buttery garlic goodness! I love serving them with toothpicks for easy munching. One bite, and you’ll be hooked! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are fantastic for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use tenderloin. For a budget-friendly choice, flank steak or skirt steak can also work, just make sure to slice them against the grain for tenderness.
Cajun seasoning: This is key for flavor! If you don’t have Cajun spice, you can make your own using paprika, cayenne, thyme, and garlic powder. For a milder kick, pick a Creole seasoning instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but you could use salted butter if that’s what you have. Just adjust the salt you add to the steak mixture.
Parsley: For garnish, fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you’re out of it, chives or cilantro can be great substitutes too!
How Do I Get A Great Sear On The Steak Bites?
Searing the steak bites is key for that delicious flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot. Use medium-high heat and let the oil shimmer before adding the steak.
- Cook the steak in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Avoid flipping too soon! Let one side get a nice brown crust before turning.
Following these steps will help you enjoy those perfect golden-brown steak bites that are bursting with flavor!
How to Make Easy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 10-15 minutes of cooking time. So, in just around 25 minutes, you can enjoy mouthwatering Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Steak:
In a large bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Once the spices are well combined, add the cubed steak to the bowl and toss gently until all the pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This step is essential for pumping up the flavor!
2. Searing the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Once sizzling, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Leave them alone for about 2-3 minutes to achieve a beautiful sear. Avoid stirring too soon so you get that lovely crust!
3. Finishing Cooking:
After the initial sear, flip the steak bites and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness. The time will slightly vary depending on how you like your steak!
4. Adding the Garlic Butter:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir gently around the steak bites in the melting butter and garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the steak is beautifully coated. That buttery flavor is what takes this dish to the next level!
5. Garnishing and Serving:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve those flavorful steak bites immediately, and if you’d like, provide toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak or tenderloin for a leaner option. Just remember that different cuts may vary in tenderness, so adjust your cooking time accordingly!
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, cut back on the Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder Creole seasoning instead. You can also add some sugar to balance the spices if you like a little sweetness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the seasoned steak in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cook it fresh when you’re ready for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Enjoy your leftovers!
