Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

If you’re craving bold flavor, juicy steak, and a quick cooking process, these Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites deliver on all fronts. Perfectly seared chunks of steak are tossed in a zesty homemade Cajun seasoning and finished with rich garlic butter, creating a dish that’s equal parts comforting and exciting. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal prep. The Cajun spice blend brings heat, depth, and a smoky edge, while the garlic butter mellows and enriches each bite. Best of all, you can use your favorite cut of steak—whether it’s ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak—making it versatile and adaptable. Pair it with a simple side like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even rice, and you’ve got a well-rounded, craveable meal that’s sure to impress. If you love steak and bold Southern flavors, this recipe will become a staple in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes with straightforward steps.
  2. Packed with Flavor – Smoky, spicy, garlicky, and buttery all in one bite.
  3. Versatile Cuts of Steak – Works with ribeye, sirloin, strip steak, or your favorite cut.
  4. One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup with all the cooking done in a single skillet.
  5. Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for weeknights, parties, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Cajun Seasoning Blend:

  • Smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper
  • Dried oregano
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Light brown sugar
  • Dried thyme

Steak Bites:

  • Strip steak, sirloin, or ribeye
  • Vegetable oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic (finely minced or grated)
  • Fresh parsley (minced, for garnish)

Variations

  • Make it Mild: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a less spicy version.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • Different Protein: Try with chicken or shrimp using the same seasoning.
  • Creamy Sauce Finish: Add a splash of cream to the skillet at the end for a creamy Cajun twist.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1:

In a small bowl, mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients together. Set aside.

Step 2:

Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

Step 3:

Toss the steak bites with about half of the Cajun seasoning to coat evenly.

Step 4:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add half of the steak bites in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and repeat with the second batch using the remaining oil.

Step 5:

Once all the steak is seared and removed, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6:

Return the steak bites to the skillet, toss to coat with the garlic butter, and sprinkle with the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste.

Step 7:

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Make sure the skillet is very hot before adding the steak for a great sear.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the steak in batches for even browning.
  • Use a meat thermometer if needed; steak is best cooked to medium or medium-rare.
  • Let the steak rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Garlic burns quickly—add it after searing the meat to avoid bitterness.

How to Serve

Serve these Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted veggies, or over a salad for a lower-carb meal. They also make great appetizers—just serve them with toothpicks and a dipping sauce like ranch or aioli for party bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled steak bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

1. What cut of steak is best for this recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak all work well. Choose one with some marbling for tenderness and flavor.

2. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but homemade allows you to control the spice level and sodium.

3. Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a kick! Reduce cayenne for a milder version.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

5. How do I get the perfect sear?

Dry the steak cubes thoroughly and cook them in a hot pan in batches.

6. Can I use pre-cut stew meat?

You can, but it’s often tougher. Stick with more tender cuts for best results.

7. What can I serve this with?

Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or even pasta.

8. Can I cook this in advance?

Yes, but steak is best freshly seared. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

9. Can I grill the steak bites instead?

Absolutely! Skewer them and grill for a smoky version.

10. Is this keto-friendly?

Yes—just skip the brown sugar in the Cajun seasoning and avoid high-carb sides.

Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the ultimate combination of bold flavor, juicy steak, and quick cooking. With their zesty seasoning, rich butter finish, and tender texture, they’re sure to become a favorite for busy nights and special occasions alike. Whether you’re pairing them with sides, serving them as appetizers, or enjoying them solo, these steak bites are an easy win packed with flavor in every bite.

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Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites


  • Author: Norah
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Juicy, seared steak bites coated in a smoky Cajun spice blend and finished in a rich garlic butter sauce. A bold and satisfying dish that comes together quickly—perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for guests.


Ingredients

Scale

Cajun Seasoning Blend:

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon light brown sugar

  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

Steak Bites:

  • pounds steak (sirloin, strip, or ribeye), cut into 1.5–2 inch cubes

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced or grated

  • Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Make the Cajun Seasoning:
    Combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.

  2. Season the Steak:
    Pat steak pieces dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.

  3. Sear the Steak Bites:
    Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in batches (do not overcrowd) and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining steak.

  4. Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
    Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining oil and butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Combine & Finish:
    Return the steak to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Heat for another minute until everything is hot and well combined.

  6. Garnish & Serve:
    Sprinkle with minced parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

You can adjust the heat by reducing the cayenne pepper or omitting it altogether.

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Great for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Sear
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Keywords: cajun steak bites, garlic butter steak, skillet steak bites, easy steak recipe

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