These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are packed with flavor and super easy to make! Tender pieces of steak are sautéed in a tasty garlic butter sauce and spicy Cajun seasoning.
Who doesn’t love a dish that cooks up quickly and smells amazing? I like to serve these with rice or veggies, and they always impress! Your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: For this recipe, I recommend sirloin for its balance of flavor and tenderness. However, ribeye gives a nice richness, and tenderloin is the most tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak works well too!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix adds a great kick. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder can mimic its flavor. You can adjust the spiciness according to your preference.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the seasoning in your dish. If you want a slightly different flavor, you can use ghee or even a plant-based butter as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic has a robust flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder.
How Do I Cook Steak Bites Without Overcrowding the Pan?
Cooking steak bites in batches is key for keeping them juicy and perfectly browned. If you crowd the pan, they’ll steam instead of sear. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large skillet and heat the oil until it’s nice and hot before adding the steak bites.
- Add the steak pieces in a single layer; leave space between them. If necessary, cook them in two or more batches.
- Don’t move the steak around too much; let them sit to sear for 2-3 minutes before flipping.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a great sear and cook your steak bites evenly to that delicious flavor and texture you’re after!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 pound steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 15-20 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and seasoning the steak, and then about 5-10 minutes cooking it in the skillet. Quick and savory!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Steak:
Start by cutting your steak into bite-sized pieces if it’s not already done. In a large bowl, mix the steak bites with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Heating the Skillet:
Place a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Wait for it to get hot—this usually takes a minute or two. Be careful not to let it smoke!
3. Cooking the Steak Bites:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until browned, then flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer them more or less done.
4. Adding Garlic and Butter:
In the last minute of cooking, toss in the butter and minced garlic. Stir well to make sure the steak bites are coated in the melting butter and garlic. Allow the flavors to blend for that delicious garlic butter taste!
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the chopped parsley for a fresh twist. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
6. Serving:
Serve your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites right away, drizzled with the buttery garlic sauce from the skillet. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are recommended for their tenderness, you can also use flank or skirt steak. Just ensure they are sliced thinly against the grain for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and salt. Adjust the spice levels to your taste for a personalized kick!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a little extra butter or olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! You can cook the steak bites ahead of time and portion them out with sides like rice or veggies. Just reheat everything together for a quick, delicious meal!
