Juicy, tender morsels of Cajun-spiced steak, seared to perfection, then finished in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or as a fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer. With bold flavors, a tender texture, and minimal prep time, this is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or appetizer
- Budget-Friendly: A little steak goes a long way
- Bold and Garlicky: A flavor explosion in every bite
If you’re a fan of steak and garlic, this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe will soon become one of your favorites. Let’s dive in.
Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick and delicious dish:
For the Cajun Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp packed light brown sugar
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
For the Steak Bites
- 1 ½ lbs. steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak work best)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Steak
Slice the steak into 2-inch bite-sized pieces. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
Make the Cajun Seasoning
Combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Add the mix to the steak and toss to coat evenly.
Preheat the Skillet
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat until very hot. Look for wisps of smoke to ensure it’s ready.
Sear the Steak
Add 1 Tbsp of vegetable oil to the skillet. Sear half the steak bites for 2 minutes without flipping, then flip and cook another 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining steak.
Make the Garlic Butter
Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds while scraping the flavorful browned bits from the pan.
Combine and Serve
Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
FAQ Section for Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with sirloin, ribeye, strip steak, or even filet mignon. Choose a tender cut for the best results.
How spicy are these Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
The spice level depends on the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Can I make this recipe without Cajun seasoning?
While the Cajun seasoning adds a distinctive flavor, you can substitute it with your preferred seasoning blend or a simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Can I prepare these steak bites in advance?
Yes, you can season the steak bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to deepen. However, the searing and garlic butter step should be done fresh for the best taste and texture.
What should I serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?
These steak bites pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a Cajun-inspired meal, consider serving them with dirty rice or cornbread.
Can I make this recipe in a different pan or cooking method?
For the best sear, use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron. If you don’t have one, a stainless steel pan works as well. Avoid non-stick pans as they don’t create as much caramelization. Alternatively, you can cook these on a grill or in an air fryer for a different texture.
Variations and Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes for more heat, or omit cayenne for a milder flavor
- Change the Herbs: Try garnishing with chopped chives or cilantro instead of parsley for a unique twist
- Make it a Meal: Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is essential for a good sear. Work in batches if needed
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a touch of butter or in the microwave until heated through
Related Recipes to Try
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes Recipe
Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are not just a recipe—they’re an experience. Whether you’re making them as a quick dinner or a party appetizer, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
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PrintCajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, tender steak bites coated in bold Cajun seasoning, seared to perfection, and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp packed light brown sugar
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
For the Steak Bites
- 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice steak into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients in a bowl, then toss with steak to coat evenly.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 Tbsp vegetable oil.
- Sear half the steak pieces for 2 minutes per side without overcrowding the pan. Remove to a plate and repeat with the rest of the steak.
- Lower the heat, melt butter in the same skillet, and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
- Return steak bites to the skillet, toss in garlic butter, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For milder spice, reduce cayenne pepper.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, for the best sear.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 449
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Cajun garlic butter steak bites recipe, Cajun steak bites, garlic butter steak bites