These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are juicy and full of flavor! Seasoned with a tasty blend of spices, they are quick to prepare and perfect for any meat lover.
If you’re like me, you’ll want to enjoy them with toothpicks—just easy bites of deliciousness! Trust me, they disappear fast at parties. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I love using ribeye for its rich flavor and tenderness, but sirloin works nicely too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try flank steak or even chicken for a lighter dish.
Cajun seasoning: This adds great flavor! If you don’t have it, make a quick blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. This way, you can control the spice level to your liking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can swap it for olive oil or vegan butter. For extra flavor, consider using garlic-infused olive oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punchy taste, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Fresh parsley: This is used for garnish and adds a nice touch of color. If you don’t have parsley, fresh cilantro can be a fun alternative with a different flavor profile.
How Do I Cook Steak Bites to Get the Perfect Crust?
Getting a great crust on steak bites helps lock in flavor and moisture. The trick is all about the heat and timing! Here’s how to achieve a delicious sear:
- Use a hot skillet and let it heat up well before adding oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Add the steak in a single layer; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if needed.
- Don’t move the steak bites around too soon. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on each side without touching them to form a crust.
- For less chewy steak, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness; this keeps them tender.
Following these tips will help you serve perfectly seared Cajun garlic butter steak bites every time!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by placing the cubed steak pieces into a big bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the steak. Toss everything together until the steak is nicely coated with the seasoning. For the best flavor, let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you get everything else ready.
2. Heat the Pan:
Take a large skillet and put it on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up until it’s nice and shimmering. This means it’s hot enough to start cooking the steak!
3. Cook the Steak Bites:
Now, add the seasoned steak pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Depending on the size of your skillet, you might need to cook them in batches. Sear the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they get a lovely crust. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are cooked to your liking. Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic while stirring continuously. Cook for about 30 seconds or until the garlic is fragrant—this will give your butter a delicious garlic flavor!
5. Combine:
Bring the steak bites back into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss everything together to coat the steak in the buttery goodness. Let it cook for an additional minute to warm the steak through and help the flavors combine beautifully.
6. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the steak bites to a serving platter. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm and enjoy your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites!
Can I Use a Different Type of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can substitute with other cuts like flank steak, tenderloin, or strip steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thinner steaks may cook faster!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make a substitute by mixing together paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Start with 1 tsp each of paprika and garlic powder, then add cayenne to taste for heat!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to retain their juicy flavor or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to toss in some veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the steak. Just ensure they’re cut into small pieces and cook them in the same skillet, starting them a couple of minutes before adding the steak for even cooking.
