Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste); ½ teaspoon packed light brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic (finely minced or grated); 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There is something incredibly satisfying about bite-sized steak pieces, seared to perfection and coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a last-minute dinner idea, and I was worried about getting the steak just right. But with a few simple steps, I ended up with juicy, flavorful steak bites that felt like a restaurant-quality meal.

This Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe is perfect for beginners because it is quick, easy, and nearly foolproof. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious and protein-packed meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, the homemade Cajun seasoning adds a punch of bold flavor without requiring special skills. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe delivers.

Why This Recipe is Special

This recipe stands out because it turns affordable cuts of steak into something extraordinary. By cutting the steak into smaller pieces, you get more surface area for that perfect sear, which locks in flavor and juiciness.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can customize the spice level, adjust the garlic to your preference, or even swap out ingredients to match what you have in your kitchen. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients Explained

Steak – The star of the dish. Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak all work well because they have good marbling, which keeps them juicy. Avoid tougher cuts like chuck or round steak.
Vegetable oil – Helps achieve a good sear on the steak, preventing it from sticking to the pan.

Butter – Adds richness to the garlic butter sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
Garlic – A key player in the sauce, giving the dish its irresistible aroma and depth.
Fresh parsley – Used as a garnish, adding a fresh contrast to the bold Cajun flavors.

Cajun seasoning – A mix of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and cayenne. It provides a smoky, slightly spicy kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

Steak substitutes: If steak isn’t available, you can use chicken breast or shrimp.
Oil options: Instead of vegetable oil, try olive oil, avocado oil, or even ghee.

Butter alternative: If avoiding dairy, use ghee or plant-based butter.
Less spicy version: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
More heat: Add extra cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Steak
Slice the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 2 inches in size. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture—this ensures a perfect sear.

Step 2: Season the Steak
In a bowl, mix the steak pieces with the Cajun seasoning blend, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.

Step 3: Preheat the Skillet
Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Let it get very hot before adding oil. This step is crucial for getting that restaurant-style crust on the steak.

Step 4: Sear the Steak Bites
Add half of the steak pieces to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2 minutes without flipping to get a nice crust. Flip the pieces and cook for another 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining steak.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Cook for another 30 seconds, then remove from heat.

Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy as-is or with your favorite side dishes.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Know the Steak is Cooked: For medium-rare, the steak should feel slightly firm with a warm red center. Use a meat thermometer—130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many steak pieces at once lowers the pan temperature and prevents a good sear.

Let the Steak Rest: After cooking, let the steak sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re unsure about spice, start with half the cayenne and taste before adding more.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Carbs: Serve over garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful butter sauce.
Veggies: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
Dipping Sauces: A side of ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a creamy Cajun aioli makes for an extra indulgent touch.

Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to maintain juiciness.

Freezing: Not recommended, as steak can become tough when reheated.

Join the Conversation

I hope this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen! If you try it, leave a comment below—let me know how it turned out and if you made any fun variations. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

What is the best cut of steak for steak bites?

The best cuts for steak bites are sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts have the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Avoid leaner cuts like round steak, as they can be tough.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes! To make it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. You can also swap it with smoked paprika for a smoky but non-spicy alternative.

How do I get a perfect sear on the steak bites?

Make sure your pan is very hot before adding the steak, and do not overcrowd the skillet. Cooking in batches ensures each piece gets a good crust instead of steaming.

Can I cook steak bites in an air fryer?

While possible, cooking them in a skillet gives the best flavor because of the browned bits in the pan that enhance the garlic butter sauce. If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

More Relevant Recipes