These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy pieces of steak cooked to perfection, tossed in a spicy garlic butter mix. They’re full of flavor, making them a tasty treat!
I love whipping these up for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer! Plus, they make your kitchen smell amazing—who needs a candle when you have steak bites? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for this recipe because it’s tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for alternatives, flank steak or ribeye are good options. They add their unique taste and texture as well.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend packs a punch of flavor. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning at home, you can mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme for a quick substitute. Adjust it to your spice preference!
Olive Oil: I prefer using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you need a substitute, canola or vegetable oil works fine. Just make sure it’s stable for high heat cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If needed, you can swap it with ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings great flavor and aroma. You could use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always better for this recipe!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
A perfect sear is key to locking in flavor and ensuring your steak bites are delicious. The secret is high heat and following these steps:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. A drop of water should sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the steaks their space. This helps them sear instead of steam.
- Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side to get that brown crust, and resist the urge to move them around too much!
With this technique, you’ll have steak bites that are juicy inside and crispy outside every time.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In just around 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Steak:
Start by taking your bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak and placing them in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the pieces and make sure each one is well-coated. Allow the seasoned steak to sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in so every bite is packed with taste!
2. Heat the Oil:
While the steak is marinating, grab a large skillet and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up until it shimmers. This is important for getting a good sear on your steak.
3. Cook the Steak:
Carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer. If you have a lot of pieces, it’s best to cook them in batches so the pan doesn’t get overcrowded. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a nice, brown crust and make sure they reach your preferred level of doneness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Add Garlic and Butter:
Once your steak bites are cooked to perfection, lower the heat to medium and slide them to one side of the skillet. Add the butter and minced garlic into the empty space in the pan. Let the butter melt completely, and then stir the garlic into it. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
5. Combine and Serve:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter, making sure they’re all evenly coated. Then remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely, vibrant garnish.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your Cajun garlic butter steak bites right away! They’re great on their own or paired with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Substitute the Sirloin Steak with Another Cut?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use tender cuts like ribeye or filet mignon for a richer flavor, or even flank steak for a lean option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as thinner cuts will cook faster.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’d like to tone down the spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. Conversely, for extra heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using a spicy Cajun mix. You can also serve with a side of sour cream to cool down the flavors!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the meat. A splash of broth or water can help keep them juicy while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the steak bites and season them in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even searing!
