These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy and packed with flavor! The tender steak is cooked to perfection and tossed in a buttery, spicy sauce that wakes up your taste buds.
Just thinking about them makes my mouth water! They’re great for a quick dinner or as a fun snack for game night. I love serving them with toothpicks—it’s like a mini steak party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try flank steak or even chicken if you want to keep it lighter.
Cajun Seasoning: Homemade is easy! Mix paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne for a quick blend. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne or use a milder spice mix.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for better control over salt levels. However, you can substitute with ghee or a plant-based butter if you want a dairy-free version.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder, but the taste won’t be as intense. Dried garlic flakes can also work in a lesser amount.
How to Get Perfectly Sear Your Steak Bites?
Searing is key to creating a delicious crust on your steak bites. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough. You should see a little shimmer in the oil when it’s ready.
- Space out the steak pieces in the skillet. Avoid crowding to ensure they brown instead of steam.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Let them cook for 2-3 minutes untouched. This builds that lovely crust.
Remember, for best results, work in batches if necessary. You want each piece to shine!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil (for cooking)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 15 minutes marinating the steak and another 15 minutes cooking it up. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized steak pieces with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the steak is well-coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb into the meat. This step is key to making your steak bites extra tasty!
2. Heat the Skillet:
While the steak is marinating, grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add about a tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer.
3. Sear the Steak Bites:
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook them in batches. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked to your preference. After cooking, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, or it will turn bitter!
5. Combine and Toss:
Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet with the garlic butter. Gently toss them for about 1-2 minutes to warm through and soak up all that buttery goodness. This step makes the bites even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the steak bites with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve them hot. Enjoy your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites with toothpicks or as a tasty appetizer!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great options, you can also use other cuts like flank steak or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and tenderness of the cut, so adjust accordingly for the ideal doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can make a simple substitute by combining 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Mix well and use it in place of the Cajun seasoning for a similar flavor!
How Do 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 gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the skillet when you sauté the garlic. Just chop them up and cook them until tender before adding the steak bites back in. This adds extra flavor and nutrition!
