Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

These Cajun garlic butter steak bites deliver everything you crave from a steakhouse in one skillet and half an hour. That melting pool of garlic butter transforms everyday steak into something next-level. Whether you need a speedy appetizer or a playful weeknight main, this dish always disappears fast at my table.

My family asks for these anytime steak goes on sale. I started making them for game day snacks and now they are a regular dinner treat with crispy potatoes.

Ingredients

• Strip steak or sirloin steak: Offers juicy tenderness and cooks quickly Choose a cut with good marbling for maximum flavor
• Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness Use Spanish smoked paprika if you find it
• Kosher salt: Brings out the meat’s natural flavor Always use coarse salt for best distribution
• Garlic powder and fresh garlic: Both deepen the savory notes Fresh garlic caramelizes for extra punch
• Onion powder: Lends classic roundness to the spice blend
• Black pepper: Brings the right level of mild heat Try freshly ground for better aroma
• Dried oregano and dried thyme: Add a warm herbal background Select jars with a strong aroma for best results
• Cayenne pepper: Controls the spice level Adjust to your heat preference or omit for mild
• Packed light brown sugar: Balances out the spice with just a hint of sweetness
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the skillet hot for a golden sear Use a neutral high-heat oil
• Unsalted butter: Forms the base of that luscious sauce Look for European style for richer flavor
• Minced fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Steak:

Carefully cut steak into even two inch cubes If you prefer smaller morsels cut to one inch This ensures even searing

Mix the Cajun Seasoning:

Blend smoked paprika kosher salt garlic powder onion powder black pepper dried oregano cayenne pepper light brown sugar and dried thyme in a bowl This guarantees the flavors distribute evenly

Season the Steak:

Toss steak bites thoroughly with the spice blend Coat each piece well so every bite has Cajun flavor

Heat the Skillet:

Set a heavy bottomed skillet over medium high heat Wait until the pan is very hot and you see light wisps of smoke This maximizes that sizzle and crust

Sear the Steak Bites:

Pour in about half the oil then add half the steak pieces keeping space between them Sear for two minutes on each side without moving them This achieves a deep brown crust Remove to a plate and repeat with remaining steak and oil

Make the Garlic Butter:

Reduce heat to medium low Add butter directly into the same skillet Once it melts stir in minced garlic letting it gently cook for about thirty seconds Scrape up any browned bits for extra flavor

Combine and Serve:

Return all steak bites to the skillet Stir to coat them in the garlic butter Serve hot garnished with minced parsley

Pin

I love the final drizzle of garlic butter It reminds me of backyard steak nights with my dad when every last drop of sauce was soaked up with bread My kids fight for the crispiest caramelized steak bites

Storage Tips

Store cooled steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag Reheat gently in a hot skillet with a dab of butter for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

Choose almost any tender steak cut like ribeye New York strip or even filet Try swapping parsley for chives or a little fresh thyme No smoked paprika Use hot Hungarian paprika plus a dash of liquid smoke

Serving Suggestions

Pile steak bites over rice or mashed potatoes or serve them in lettuce cups as a fun appetizer They also shine tossed in pasta or alongside roasted vegetables

Cajun Influence in Cooking

Cajun cuisine comes from Louisiana and uses bold seasoning often featuring paprika cayenne and garlic The punchy blend brings both warmth and richness making every bite of steak sing

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak is best for steak bites?

Sirloin, strip steak, or ribeye all work great for steak bites. They cook quickly and remain tender.

→ Can I make it less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to keep the seasoning milder.

→ How do I get a good sear on the steak?

Use a heavy skillet and ensure it's very hot before adding steak. Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning.

→ Can I prepare steak bites ahead of time?

You can slice and season the steak ahead, but sear it just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ Are there substitutes for Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own blend with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne.

→ What sides pair well with steak bites?

Try serving with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.