These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are packed with flavor! Juicy pieces of steak are cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of spice.
You’ll love how quick they are to make. I often whip these up when I want something tasty in no time. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun appetizer—just grab a toothpick and enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is perfect for tender steak bites. If you need a substitute, flank steak or ribeye also works well. Just make sure to cut against the grain for tenderness!
Cajun Seasoning: For a homemade mix, combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. If you prefer less heat, use a mild seasoning blend or Italian seasoning instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative if you’re out of fresh. Use about 1 teaspoon of powder for each clove needed.
Unsalted Butter: Feel free to use salted butter if that’s what you have. The dish will be seasoned, so it should still taste great. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a good substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites?
Cooking steak bites can be tricky, but it’s all about the temperature and timing! Here are some tips:
- Heat the skillet before adding oil and steak to ensure a good sear.
- Cook the steak in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which steams instead of sears.
- Use a meat thermometer: aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Rest the steak bites for a minute after cooking; this helps retain juices.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll be tossing the steak cubes, searing them to perfection, and mixing in a delicious garlic butter sauce. Quick and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing the cubed sirloin steak in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the steak and add salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning. This will give it that delicious spicy kick!
2. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—it’s best to cook in batches if necessary. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking. After searing, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat on your skillet a bit and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the butter and cook for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells amazing, but be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Toss in the Steak Bites:
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the garlic butter. Gently toss them around in the butter for about 2-3 minutes, making sure they’re well coated and heated through. This is where the magic happens!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the steak bites. This adds a nice touch and some color! Serve them up hot and enjoy your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites. They make a fantastic appetizer or main dish!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Yes! While sirloin is a great choice, you can also use ribeye, tenderloin, or flank steak. Just remember that different cuts may have varying cooking times based on their thickness and fat content, so adjust accordingly for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Adjust the amounts based on your spice preference, and it’ll give you a similar flavor kick!
How Should I Store Leftover Steak Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of butter if desired to keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions make great additions. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic and butter, or cook them alongside the steak bites for added flavor and nutrition.
