Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Few things satisfy a comfort food craving like Cajun garlic butter steak bites seared to caramelized perfection and dripping in a spicy herb butter sauce. This recipe delivers a bold weeknight dinner or party appetizer using basic pantry spices and quick-cooking steak. Each bite is juicy and packed with the kind of flavor I can never resist when craving something special but easy.

This simple skillet dinner became a go to during busy weeks when I wanted to treat myself without a hassle. The first time I served these steak bites at a family game night I barely got any because everyone inhaled them so fast.

Ingredients

• Strip steak sirloin or ribeye: The key is using well marbled cuts for juicy bites Look for bright red meat with fine marbling and avoid cuts with a rainbow sheen or excessive liquid
• Smoked paprika: This spice brings warmth and depth Opt for Spanish smoked paprika for the best flavor and check labels to avoid ones with added colors or preservatives
• Kosher salt: Ensures every steak bite is well seasoned Larger crystals stick better to the meat use coarse over fine salt
• Garlic powder and onion powder: These staples add savory backbone Choose jars with a strong fresh aroma not clumpy or faded
• Black pepper: Use freshly cracked for a bold finish Whole peppercorns ground at home make a difference
• Dried oregano and dried thyme: These herbs round out the Cajun flair Pick dried herbs that are green not brown with a strong fragrance
• Cayenne pepper: Adds the heat You can always adjust for more or less kick Good cayenne is bright red not dull brown
• Light brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the spice Look for moist not hard packed sugar
• Vegetable oil: Choose a neutral high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed for searing steak
• Unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce Always use butter with a fresh clean scent avoid any that smells sour
• Fresh garlic: Finely minced for intense garlicky flavor Choose firm plump cloves with no soft spots or green shoots
• Minced fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color Use leaves only for best flavor and appearance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Steak:

Cut steak into roughly two inch pieces for substantial meaty bites Place pieces in a large mixing bowl and pat dry with paper towels to ensure browning

Mix Cajun Seasoning:

In a small bowl stir together smoked paprika kosher salt garlic powder onion powder black pepper dried oregano cayenne pepper light brown sugar and dried thyme Mix thoroughly so no clumps remain

Season the Steak:

Sprinkle the prepared Cajun seasoning blend over the steak pieces Toss them until every surface is well coated with the spice mix

Preheat the Skillet:

Set a large heavy bottomed skillet ideally cast iron over medium high heat Heat until just starting to smoke faintly This high heat jump starts the steak sear

Sear the Steak Bites:

Add one tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the base Place half the steak in a single layer without crowding Sear without stirring for two minutes to form a crust Flip and sear for two more minutes until browned Remove and repeat with remaining oil and steak

Make the Garlic Butter:

Lower the skillet heat to medium low Add the butter and let it melt Quickly add minced garlic Stir constantly for about thirty seconds scraping up any browned bits for deep flavor Take care not to burn the garlic

Coat and Serve:

Turn off the heat and return all steak bites and any juices to the skillet Toss everything so the bites are blanketed in garlicky butter Serve topped with minced parsley for color and pop

Pin

I always make extra garlic butter since my family scrapes every drop off the plate The rich savoriness of fresh garlic with a touch of heat and that silky herb butter makes these steak bites unforgettable in our house especially for celebrations or poker night

Storage Tips

Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They reheat beautifully in a skillet over low heat Add a splash of broth or butter to restore moisture and revive the flavors Leftovers also work great sliced onto salads or tucked into wraps for lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If strip steak is not available try sirloin for a lean yet flavorful bite Ribeye gives extra richness Avoid tough cuts like round steak which can get chewy For butter free diets swap in olive oil and finish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast Use your favorite Cajun spice blend if you are short on individual seasonings but taste and adjust for salt and heat

Serving Suggestions

Serve steak bites with roasted potatoes over rice or on top of a crisp green salad They shine alongside cornbread or creamy grits for a Southern touch For party appetizers spear bites on skewers with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice

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Cultural Spotlight

Cajun spices hail from Louisiana s vibrant food culture bringing together flavors from French African and Spanish traditions This recipe captures that signature zesty warmth while staying easy and approachable for home cooks The garlic butter element adds a hint of steakhouse luxury to the rustic Cajun bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best?

Strip steak, sirloin, or ribeye all work well for tender, flavorful bites. Choose a well-marbled cut for extra juiciness.

→ How do I avoid tough steak bites?

Use high heat to sear and avoid overcrowding the pan. Serve immediately for best tenderness.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, reduce or increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning to match your preference for heat.

→ What are good side dishes for this?

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad to balance the bold flavors.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead?

You can prep and season the steak pieces in advance, but sear and finish with garlic butter just before serving.