These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are packed with flavor! Tender pieces of steak are cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of spice.
Pair these tasty bites with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that impresses! I love serving them with fresh veggies for that perfect balance. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is affordable and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using flank steak or tenderloin. Both will work well but be aware that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness. However, if you’re out, canola or avocado oil can be used. Both have high smoke points and will keep your steak bites sizzling without burning.
Spices: The mix of paprika and cayenne pepper gives a warm kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. You can also replace cayenne with chili powder for a milder heat.
Unsalted Butter: This adds creaminess and richness to the dish. You can substitute with ghee for a dairy-free option or use a plant-based butter if you’re vegan.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Nice Crust on Your Steak Bites?
Getting that delicious crust on your steak bites is crucial for flavor. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the oil. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. It should be hot enough to sizzle when the oil is added.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed so the steak pieces can sear properly.
- Let them be! Once in the pan, avoid moving the steak bites for the first few minutes. This helps develop a nice 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 pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10-12 minutes to cook. In just 20-22 minutes, you’ll have juicy, flavorful steak bites ready to impress your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by taking a large bowl and mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss the bite-sized steak pieces in this flavorful spice blend until they are evenly coated. This step makes sure every piece of steak is packed with flavor!
2. Cook the Steak:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches if your skillet is small. Let them cook without moving for about 2-3 minutes to get a nice crust on them.
3. Flip and Continue Cooking:
Once they’ve got a good sear, flip the steak bites over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness. If you like your steak medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the steak. Stir everything together, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on the garlic to make sure it doesn’t burn. This garlic butter sauce will add a rich flavor to the steak bites!
5. Toss and Serve:
Once the garlic has softened and everything is well mixed, take the skillet off the heat. Toss the steak bites in the garlic butter sauce to coat them nicely and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve these tasty Cajun garlic butter steak bites immediately, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sirloin steak, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or flank steak as alternatives. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and fat content of the cut. Aim for pieces that are about the same size for even cooking!
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for a little extra heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the spice mix. Alternatively, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the garlic for a flavorful kick!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While these steak bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the steak in the spice mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors, making for a tastier dish when you’re ready to cook!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can add a little extra butter or oil to revive the flavor and keep them juicy!
