These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are small pieces of juicy steak, perfectly seasoned with a kick of Cajun spice. The garlic butter takes it to another level of yum!
Who can resist these tasty chunks of meat? I love serving them with toothpicks for easy snacking. Just don’t forget to keep a napkin handy for the buttery goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great for tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use ribeye for extra marbling or tenderloin for a leaner option. For a budget-friendly choice, flank steak or even chicken can work too!
Cajun Seasoning: Cajun seasoning gives these steak bites a nice kick. If you’d like a milder flavor, try using creole seasoning or simply mix paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also make your own seasoning with spices you have at home!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for this recipe, as it brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I enjoy using fresh garlic for the best taste!
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling salt levels in cooking. If you only have salted butter at home, just reduce the salt you add to the dish. You can also try ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
Getting that perfect sear on steak bites is a key technique that makes a big difference in flavor and texture. The sear locks in juices and builds a tasty crust. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by making sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak—this helps with browning.
- Place the steak cubes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding as this will steam instead of sear the meat.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Resist the urge to move them; this allows those delicious crusty bits to form.
- Flip the steak bites and repeat until they reach your preference for doneness.
For extra flavor, always allow the garlic to cook briefly after the steak is done searing, as burnt garlic can turn bitter!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your preferred cut), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes to whip up these delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by taking a medium bowl and placing your bite-sized steak cubes inside. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, along with some salt and pepper, over the steak. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything around until the steak is well coated with the seasoning. This will give your steak a bold and flavorful kick!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is nice and hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites into the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes. This will help create a nice sear on the steak. After that, flip the steak bites and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked to your liking. The cooking time can vary depending on how thick your steak bites are and how well-done you prefer your meat.
3. Add Garlic and Butter:
Now it’s time to add that delicious garlic flavor! Sprinkle the minced garlic over the steak bites and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. Once it’s fragrant, lower the heat and toss in the butter. Let it melt and mix up with the steak and garlic, stirring to ensure each bite is coated in the tasty garlic butter.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the steak bites for a fresh finish. These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are now ready to enjoy! You can serve them warm as an appetizer or over rice, potatoes, or salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can substitute with ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just remember that the cooking time might vary based on the cut and thickness of the pieces, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked to your desired doneness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add more heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier Cajun seasoning blend. You can also add slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat to preserve the flavor and texture, adding a little extra butter if needed to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While these steak bites are best served fresh, you can prepare the steak by seasoning it in advance and storing it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just cook them right before serving for the best flavor and texture!
