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These Cajun garlic butter steak bites are bite-sized pieces of perfectly seared steak tossed in a bold blend of rustic Louisiana-inspired seasoning and finished in a pool of garlicky, velvety butter. This is my answer whenever I crave steak with a little kick but want something more casual and weeknight friendly.
After making these steak bites for a game night, I was amazed at how fast they disappeared. My friends now ask for it every time they come over it is a regular crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Strip steak or similar cut: choose well-marbled steak for juicy bites
- Smoked paprika: gives smoky depth try to find Spanish style paprikas for best flavor
- Kosher salt: boosts all other flavors always use fresh salt for best seasoning
- Garlic powder: for savory hints and balance
- Onion powder: rounds out the spice blend and mellows sharpness
- Black pepper: a spicy background note grind fresh if possible
- Dried oregano: earthiness and fragrance look for oregano with a strong aroma
- Cayenne pepper: adds heat use less if you prefer it mild
- Light brown sugar: helps caramelize and balances spice pick the softest you can
- Dried thyme: herbal touch with a sharp scent
- Vegetable oil: for a high-heat sear use a neutral one like canola
- Unsalted butter: creamy richness without too much salt
- Fresh garlic: pungent flavor that shines in the butter use firm fresh bulbs
- Fresh parsley: a clean finish and splash of color choose bright leafy bunches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Steak:
- Slice the steak into pieces about two inches each. Use a sharp knife for even sizes so all the bites cook the same. Place in a mixing bowl.
- Mix and Season:
- Stir together all the spice mix ingredients in a separate bowl. Sprinkle the blend evenly over the steak pieces. Toss well using your hands or tongs to coat every piece fully.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Put a large heavy skillet on medium high heat. Do not add oil yet. Let it heat until you see faint wisps of smoke. This ensures a great steak sear.
- Sear the Steak:
- Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and tilt the pan so it coats the bottom. Place in half the steak pieces in one layer with space between each piece. Do not crowd the pan. Let them sear without moving for two minutes. Flip each piece and cook another two minutes until nicely browned. Remove to a plate. Repeat with the rest of the oil and steak.
- Build the Garlic Butter:
- Turn heat down to medium low. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about thirty seconds. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits left on the pan.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return all steak bites to the skillet. Stir well so each piece gets coated in the garlic butter. Take off the heat and sprinkle with plenty of fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
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The smoked paprika in this recipe is my secret weapon. Its deep red color and woodsy aroma add magic to every bite. My family still talks about the time I first used paprika from a trip to Spain and how much it changed these steak bites.
Storage Tips
Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep them juicy. If you want to freeze them, cool them down then freeze in a single layer before storing in bags for up to two months.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter or surf and turf version. If you are out of smoked paprika, regular paprika with a pinch of cumin gives a similar effect. Olive oil can replace vegetable oil in a pinch for a slightly fruitier taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these steak bites over fluffy rice for a bold bowl dinner, or tuck them into warm tortillas with a quick cabbage slaw. For parties, stick them with toothpicks and pass them as hearty appetizers with extra parsley on top.
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A Taste of Cajun Cooking
Cajun cuisine is all about celebrating bold spices and making simple ingredients sing. This dish packs in classic Cajun flavors with a modern butter sauce twist. Inspired by the food of Louisiana’s French Creole heritage, this recipe brings the festive feeling of New Orleans right to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of steak works best for steak bites?
Sirloin, strip steak, or ribeye are great choices as they remain tender and juicy when quickly seared in the skillet.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning blend to make the dish milder. Add more for extra heat if you prefer.
- → Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, you may use pre-made Cajun seasoning if you're short on time. Adjust salt levels if needed, as blends vary in saltiness.
- → What is the best way to get a good sear?
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet heated until it just starts to smoke, and avoid crowding the pan so the steak browns properly.
- → How do I keep the steak bites tender?
Sear the steak bites quickly over high heat and avoid overcooking to ensure they stay juicy and tender inside.
- → Is there a recommended side dish?
Roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad pair well with the flavors of Cajun garlic butter steak bites.