These Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are tender and super tasty! They’re loaded with garlic and zesty spices that really wake up your taste buds.
Who doesn’t love a good steak that cooks fast? I whip these up for a quick dinner, and they always get devoured. Serve them with some veggies, and you’ve got a winner! 🥩✨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: This cut is perfect for steak bites due to its tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, flank steak or filet mignon can also work well for a similar texture. For a leaner option, try sirloin tip or top round.
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, and oregano. Just adjust the spice levels to suit your taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for cooking as it lets you control the salt. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter instead. However, the butter adds a rich flavor that I really enjoy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can substitute, but it won’t give the same aroma. I love using lots of fresh garlic when I make this dish!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Steak Bites?
Cooking steak bites to the right doneness can be tricky. Here are some quick tips to help you out:
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the steak. This helps you get that nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures each piece gets perfectly browned.
- Use a meat thermometer! For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C). For medium, go for 140°F (60°C). This way, you’ll know exactly how cooked your steak bites are.
Using these tips, you can enjoy steak bites that are flavorful on the outside and juicy on the inside. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 pound beef sirloin (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This exciting dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 10 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be serving up delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal or a tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by placing your bite-sized beef sirloin pieces in a bowl. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning along with a pinch of salt and pepper over the beef. Toss the pieces with your hands or a spoon until every piece is nicely coated with the spices. This step is crucial for that flavorful kick!
2. Cook the Steak Bites:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully lay the seasoned steak bites in the pan in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet—you want them to sear nicely, so cook them in batches if necessary. Brown the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a lovely crust and have reached your preferred doneness. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Now, return the cooked steak bites back into the skillet. Toss them around in the garlic butter until they’re all nicely coated.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them immediately, and enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or as part of a main meal. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have sirloin, you can use ribeye, flank steak, or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content, so adjust accordingly to achieve your desired doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. Adjust the spices based on your heat preference, or use any other seasoning blend you enjoy!
How to Store Leftover Steak Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a little splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them juicy!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a couple dashes of hot sauce to the garlic butter. Just be cautious—start with a little and taste as you go to achieve your preferred heat level!
