Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a flavorful and quick-to-make dish that’s perfect for satisfying any steak craving. These bite-sized pieces of tender steak are seasoned with a robust Cajun spice blend, then seared to perfection and finished with a luscious garlic butter sauce. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne gives the steak bites a delicious kick, while the butter and fresh parsley add richness and brightness to each mouthful. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, appetizer, or even game day snack, these steak bites come together quickly and require minimal ingredients. Whether you prefer sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak, this recipe adapts easily and delivers consistently juicy and flavorful results. Paired with your favorite sides or enjoyed on their own, these Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, smoky, and spicy flavors from a perfectly balanced Cajun seasoning blend.
- Quick and easy preparation that fits well into busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- Tender, juicy steak bites that sear beautifully and retain rich flavor.
- Garlic butter finish adds a decadent, savory richness to every bite.
- Versatile and customizable—use any favorite steak cut and adjust spice levels to taste.
Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning Blend
- Smoked paprika
- Kosher salt
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Dried oregano
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Light brown sugar
- Dried thyme
Steak Bites
- Steak (strip, sirloin, ribeye, or preferred cut)
- Vegetable oil
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
- Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Herb-Infused Butter: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the garlic butter for an herbal twist.
- Citrus Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest to the butter sauce for brightness.
- Smoky BBQ: Substitute smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a smoky, smoky flavor.
- Creamy Dip: Serve alongside a creamy horseradish or garlic aioli dip.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients: smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and dried thyme. Mix well.
Step 2
Cut your steak into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
Step 3
Toss the steak bites in half of the vegetable oil and then coat evenly with the Cajun seasoning blend.
Step 4
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining vegetable oil.
Step 5
Add the seasoned steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust, then stir and cook another 2-3 minutes until browned but still juicy inside.
Step 6
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir frequently to coat the steak bites in garlic butter and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 7
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Pat steak dry before seasoning to get a better crust during searing.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear and flavor.
- Let the steak rest briefly after cooking if desired for extra juiciness.
- Freshly minced garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
How to Serve
- Serve these Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a hearty meal.
- Serve over a fresh green salad or sautéed vegetables for a lighter option.
- Use as a filling for steak sandwiches or wraps with spicy aioli.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon for brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled steak bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze steak bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain moisture, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
FAQs
1. What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, or any tender cut you prefer works well.
2. Can I use pre-made Cajun seasoning?
Yes, pre-made seasoning blends can be used, but making your own lets you control spice levels.
3. How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate but can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.
4. Can I cook these steak bites in the oven?
They are best seared on the stovetop for the crust, but you can finish in a hot oven if needed.
5. How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?
Avoid overcooking and cook steak bites quickly on high heat to keep them juicy.
6. Can I omit the garlic butter?
You can, but the garlic butter adds richness and flavor that enhances the dish.
7. What sides go well with Cajun steak bites?
Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad all complement well.
8. Can I use frozen steak?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed steak for even cooking.
9. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Skip the butter and use a high-smoke-point oil with garlic for flavor.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Conclusion
Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites bring bold, smoky, and garlicky flavors to your table in an easy and fast recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a shareable appetizer, or a satisfying snack, these steak bites deliver on every level. With a versatile spice blend and rich butter finish, they’re perfect for customizing to your taste and serving alongside your favorite sides. Try this recipe to enjoy tender, juicy, and flavorful steak bites any night of the week.
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Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender, juicy steak bites tossed in a bold, smoky Cajun seasoning and finished with rich garlic butter. Perfect for a quick and flavorful appetizer or main dish that packs a punch.
Ingredients
Cajun Seasoning Blend:
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1 Tbsp smoked paprika
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1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
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1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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1/2 tsp packed light brown sugar
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1/4 tsp dried thyme
Steak Bites:
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1 1/2 lbs steak (strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, or similar), cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided
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3 Tbsp unsalted butter
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5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
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Minced fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Cajun seasoning: Mix smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne, brown sugar, and thyme in a bowl.
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Season the steak: Toss the steak bites in half of the vegetable oil and coat with the Cajun seasoning blend evenly.
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Cook the steak: Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak bites and set aside.
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Make the garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
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Combine and finish: Return steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
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Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spice level.
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Use a cast iron skillet for best sear and flavor.
- Let steak rest a few minutes before serving for juicier bites.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American