Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are little pieces of heaven! Juicy steak cubes cooked to perfection and tossed in a garlic butter sauce with a spicy Cajun twist make every bite delicious.
You won’t believe how quick they are to make, and the smell filling your kitchen is just amazing! I love serving them with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for steak bites due to its tenderness. If it’s pricey or you want a different flavor, consider flank steak or even chicken breast as alternatives.
Cajun Seasoning: You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning for convenience, but making your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano can give a fresher taste. Adjust spice levels according to your preference!
Olive Oil: This is a healthy choice for cooking, but you can use vegetable oil or canola oil if you want something with a higher smoke point.
Unsalted Butter: I recommend unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan butter or olive oil for a similar richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; however, if you’re in a rush, garlic powder works too. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Cook the Steak Bites Perfectly?
Cooking steak bites just right is key for the best taste. Here are some tips:
- Allow the steak pieces to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil and steak. A hot pan gives a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too many pieces at once, they will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Check for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and cook. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Steak:
Start by placing the bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak into a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, along with some salt and pepper, over the steak. Toss everything together until the steak pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning. This will give them lots of flavor!
2. Cooking the Steak:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—if it’s too crowded, the steak won’t sear properly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to how you like them. Once done, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt and bubble gently. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma—be careful not to burn it!
4. Combining Everything:
Next, bring back the cooked steak bites to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss them around gently to ensure they are nicely coated in the buttery goodness. Let them cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. Mmm, so good!
5. Garnishing and Serving:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your wonderful Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites! Perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or even flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut and thickness of the pieces. Adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano. Alternatively, you can use a blend of chili powder and Italian seasoning for a similar flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the steak bites before cooking. You can also sprinkle some extra Cajun seasoning for an additional kick once you toss them in the garlic butter.
