These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are filled with flavor and super easy to make! Juicy pieces of steak are cooked until tender and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a kick.
Who wouldn’t love quick bites of steak that are both tasty and fun to eat? I often serve them with toothpicks—perfect for parties or a cozy night in. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are great choices for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using filet mignon or flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the cut you choose.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a vibrant kick! If you don’t have it on hand, you can easily make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste—no need to hold back if you like it hot!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over salt levels. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try olive oil or a dairy-free butter option like coconut oil. However, butter adds rich flavor that’s hard to replicate, so I usually stick with it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is wonderful, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. Fresh garlic brings more depth and sweetness that truly enhances the dish.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Steak Bites?
A good sear is key for flavor in this dish! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil—medium-high heat is ideal.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the steak in batches if necessary to get that nice brown crust.
- Let the steak sit without stirring for a few minutes on each side. This builds that delicious caramelized exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure about doneness; 130°F for medium-rare is perfect!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 pound steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick 25-minute meal! Perfect for a busy weeknight or as a fancy appetizer for your friends and family.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing the bite-sized steak cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on top. Mix well until every piece of steak is evenly coated with the seasoning. This gives your steak a delicious flavor!
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan!
3. Sear the Steak:
Cook the steak bites for about 3-4 minutes on one side. You’ll want them to develop a nice brown sear. Flip the steak bites over and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium-rare. If you prefer your steak more done, just add a minute or two extra!
4. Add Butter and Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and toss the butter and minced garlic into the skillet. Stir everything together, giving the garlic a moment to become fragrant and letting the butter melt.
5. Toss with Sauce:
Continue cooking for an extra 1-2 minutes, tossing the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce to make sure they’re all coated and extra tasty.
6. Serve:
Once cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the steak bites to a serving platter, making sure to get all that delicious garlic butter sauce out too!
7. Garnish and Enjoy!
Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the steak bites for a lovely touch of color. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites as a quick meal or a fantastic appetizer!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great options, you can also use cuts like flank steak or tenderloin. Just ensure they’re cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking. Each cut has a different flavor and tenderness, so feel free to experiment!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels based on your taste preference. This will give you a similar flavor profile!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover steak bites 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 the butter flavor, or microwave for about 30 seconds, checking to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for an added kick. If you like heat, feel free to customize it to your liking!
