These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a tasty treat! Made with juicy steak pieces cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, they’re perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Who can resist tender steak in butter? I just skewer them and serve with toothpicks for easy munching. Trust me, they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is a great choice for tenderness and flavor. You can also use ribeye or filet mignon for a richer taste. If you’re on a budget, try flank or skirt steak, which can still be delicious when cooked right.
Cajun Seasoning: For a homemade touch, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. If you prefer milder flavors, use less cayenne or substitute with Italian seasoning.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan butter or ghee, which gives a nutty flavor without the milk.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Adjust to your taste, as garlic can be quite potent!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on My Steak?
Getting that beautiful sear on your steak bites is all about heat and timing. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the oil. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high for several minutes. A drop of water should sizzle if it’s hot enough.
- Cook steak in one layer. Overcrowding the pan can steam the meat, preventing a good sear.
- Let the steak cook undisturbed on one side for 2-3 minutes before flipping. Resist the urge to move them around!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound sirloin steak (or your preferred cut), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need 15-20 minutes for marinating the steak, followed by about 10-15 minutes for cooking. Easy and quick for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak Bites:
Start by taking your bowl and add the bite-sized pieces of steak. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper. Give it a good toss, so every piece is nicely coated in flavor. Let the steak marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will really enhance the taste and make it extra delicious!
2. Sear the Steak:
Now, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the steak pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will help them sear beautifully. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re nice and brown and at your desired doneness—medium-rare is a tasty choice!
3. Add the Garlic Butter:
With the steak cooked to perfection, reduce the heat to medium and gently push the steak bites to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, drop in the butter and the minced garlic. Let the butter melt and cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring it around so it doesn’t burn. The aroma will be amazing!
4. Toss and Combine Flavors:
Once you can smell that fragrant garlic, take the steak bites and toss them in the delicious garlicky butter until they’re well-coated. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes for all the flavors to meld together, making sure they’re heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take your skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the steak bites for a pop of color. Serve these amazing Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites immediately! They can be enjoyed on their own or as a great side with rice or vegetables. Enjoy your flavorful feast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for its balance between tenderness and flavor, you can use cuts like ribeye, flank, or even tenderloin. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time based on thickness and fat content.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make a homemade version by mixing equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the spices to your taste to keep it as spicy or mild as you like!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently to avoid overcooking the steak pieces.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in your Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. Just be cautious with the heat levels to maintain a balance of flavors.
