These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are packed with flavor! Juicy pieces of steak are seared to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, giving them a mouthwatering taste.
Honestly, they’re so good, you might find yourself eating them straight from the pan! With how easy they are to whip up, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for its balance of flavor and tenderness. However, you can swap it for ribeye or flank steak if you prefer richer taste or leaner cuts. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary!
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a spicy kick! If you’re out of Cajun seasoning, mix equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder for a quick homemade version. Adjust based on how spicy you want it.
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, olive oil adds flavor. You can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you want a higher smoke point. Each will deliver a slightly different taste.
Unsalted Butter: This helps create the rich garlic butter sauce. You could substitute with ghee or even a vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Just remember that ghee has a higher smoke point too!
Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or green onions work nicely as substitutes and will still give a lovely garnish.
How Do I Get My Steak Bites Perfectly Browned?
Getting that perfect sear on your steak bites is key to enhancing their flavor. Start by making sure your skillet is hot enough and avoid overcrowding. Here are some tips:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the oil; you want it hot!
- Cook in batches; don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of brown.
- Let them sit for a minute or so without stirring; this helps form that nice crust.
- Flip the steak cubes only when they’re browned on the bottom; patience will pay off!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your choice of steak), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of 20 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your flavorful steak bites in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing the cubed steak into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the steak pieces. Toss everything together until all the cubes are evenly coated in the seasoning. This will give the steak a wonderful flavor!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer. If your skillet is small, you might want to cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s nicely browned on all sides.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Once the steak bites are browned, lower the heat to medium and push the steak to one side of the skillet, creating room on the other side. In the empty space, add the butter and the minced garlic. Allow the garlic to cook for about 1 minute, stirring often to prevent it from burning.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, mix the cooked steak bites with the garlic and butter in the skillet. Stir everything together well until the steak is nicely coated with the flavorful garlic butter. This step adds a rich taste that you’ll love!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the steak bites to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve these tasty bites immediately as a main dish or appetizer, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is a great choice, you can use other cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, or flank steak. Just remember that cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and tenderness of the steak you choose, so adjust accordingly for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried oregano, along with 1/2 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper and black pepper. This mix will capture the spicy, zesty flavor that Cajun seasoning is known for!
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, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little butter or olive oil to keep them moist. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the steak chewy.
Can I Cook the Steak Bites in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After seasoning, spread the steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach your desired doneness. Then, toss them with the garlic butter as stated in the recipe!
