These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are a delicious treat! Juicy pieces of steak are coated in a flavorful mix of spices and buttery goodness that will make your taste buds dance.
Cooking them is a breeze! Just sear the steak bites and pour the buttery sauce over them. I can guarantee you’ll be sneaking bites right off the pan! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for this dish due to its flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, ribeye or tenderloin work well too. For a budget-friendly choice, flank steak or chuck can be used, but they may require more cooking time for tenderness.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend gives the steak its unique kick. If you can’t find it, you can make your own with equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs like oregano or thyme. Adjust the heat based on your preference!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat choice for cooking. You can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil, but I personally love the flavor olive oil adds to the dish. For a bit of a twist, avocado oil is another excellent choice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic clove is preferred for its strong flavor, but you could use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand. However, fresh always gives the best taste!
How Do I Properly Sear the Steak for Flavor?
Searing your steak bites is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- **Get the Pan Hot:** Start by preheating your skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s ready.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Cook the steak in a single layer. Too many pieces will lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.
- **Timing is Everything:** Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side. You want a nice brown crust, which boosts the flavor.
- **Let it Rest:** After cooking, allow the steak bites to rest for a few minutes; this helps keep them juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll enhance the overall taste and texture of your Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
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 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
In a large bowl, take the bite-sized pieces of sirloin steak and add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the steak is nicely coated with the seasonings. This step packs in the flavor!
2. Cook the Steak Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as we want a nice sear. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until nicely browned on one side.
3. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Flip the steak bites over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. You want them browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but be careful not to let it burn—it can turn bitter!
5. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Give it a quick stir and cook for another minute to heat everything through. This is where the magic happens!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the steak bites for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Cajun garlic butter steak bites!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for this recipe, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or even tenderloin. Just keep in mind that different cuts may have varying cook times. Flank steak is leaner, so be careful not to overcook it!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning using a mix of paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust the spice level according to your taste. About 1 tablespoon of the mix should work well!
How Do I Know When the Steak is Done?
The best way to check steak doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. If you prefer it more cooked, aim for 145°F for medium. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the heat!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the steak bites ahead of time by marinating them with the seasonings. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and texture!
