These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, they make for a perfect appetizer or main dish!
Honestly, there’s nothing better than the smell of these sizzling bites filling your kitchen! I love serving them with a side of veggies—so delicious and fun to share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great for steak bites due to its tenderness and flavor. If you want a more budget-friendly option, consider using flank steak or even chicken if you prefer a different protein.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend brings a kick of flavor! If you want a milder taste or can’t find it, make your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust it to your heat tolerance.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you want a buttery flavor without dairy, try using a plant-based butter. For a richer taste, mix in some ghee if you have it.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is perfect for that aromatic punch. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder; just reduce the amount to around 1 teaspoon, but beware—it won’t have the same freshness!
How Do I Get the Perfect Brown on My Steak Bites?
A good sear on the steak bites is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. A hot pan ensures a nice crust.
- Cook the steak bites in a single layer to allow proper browning. If crowded, they’ll steam instead.
- Give them space! Cook in batches if necessary. Avoiding overcrowding is key.
- Avoid moving the steak bites around too much. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to form that crust.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 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 delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a quick 15 minutes marinating the steak, followed by cooking it in a skillet for about 5 minutes. It’s super quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
Start by taking your cubed sirloin steak and placing it in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the steak, then toss everything together until the cubes are evenly coated. Let this marinate at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors stick to the steak!
2. Cook the Steak Bites:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated steak cubes in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, aiming for a nice brown color while keeping them medium-rare to medium in doneness. If you have a lot of steak, cook them in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.
3. Add Garlic Butter:
After browning the steak, reduce the heat to medium and push the steak bites to one side of the skillet. Now, add the butter and minced garlic to the empty side. Stir the garlic in the melted butter for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Then, combine the steak bites back into the buttery garlic side, stirring to coat them well.
4. Finish Cooking and Serve:
Keep stirring everything together for about another minute, making sure the steak bites are fully coated with that delicious garlic butter. Once done, remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve immediately. Enjoy your tasty Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great option, you can also use cuts like ribeye or tenderloin for a juicier bite. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and fat content of the meat.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. On the other hand, if you like the heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to amp it up!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! While these steak bites are best served fresh, you can marinate the steak cubes in the seasoning for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until just heated through to maintain their juiciness.
