Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp smoked paprika; 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or less, to taste; 1/2 tsp packed light brown sugar; 1/4 tsp dried thyme; 1 1/2 lbs. steak (strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, etc.); 2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided; 3 Tbsp unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated; Minced fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving a sizzling, flavor-packed dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are about to become your new obsession. This recipe packs juicy steak morsels with smoky Cajun spices and finishes them in a dreamy, garlicky butter sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making these as an appetizer for friends or a quick weeknight dinner, the aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the kitchen in anticipation. Let’s dive in and make your steak night unforgettable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites is just how simple and approachable the ingredients list is. Each element brings something special—bold flavor, tender texture, or a pop of color—that makes the final dish so much more than the sum of its parts.

Cajun seasoning blend: The backbone of the recipe, offering smoky, peppery heat and deep Southern flavor.
1 Tbsp smoked paprika: Adds a rich, earthy smokiness you can taste in every bite.
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Essential for drawing out the steak’s natural juices and sharpening all those bold flavors.
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Layering garlic powder with fresh garlic means extra dimension and depth.
1 tsp onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
1/2 tsp black pepper: For just the right amount of mild heat and bite.
1/2 tsp dried oregano: Infuses the dish with a gentle, woodsy herbiness.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste): Gives the steak bites their Cajun kick—use less for a milder result.
1/2 tsp packed light brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to highlight the savory flavors.
1/4 tsp dried thyme: Another aromatic herb that adds an earthy, savory undertone.
1 1/2 lbs. steak (strip, sirloin, or ribeye): Pick your favorite cut for ultimate tenderness and beefy flavor.
2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided: High smoke point oil ensures a perfectly seared crust on your steak.
3 Tbsp unsalted butter: The magic ingredient that makes the sauce so velvety and decadent.
5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated: For that rich, fragrant garlic flavor that infuses the butter.
Minced fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a vibrant finish and a fresh, herbal pop just before serving.

How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Step 1: Slice and Set Up

Start by slicing your steak into hearty, bite-sized pieces—about two inches each gives you juicy centers with lots of seared edges to soak up the sauce. Place them in a large mixing bowl so they’re ready for their Cajun transformation.

Step 2: Mix the Cajun Seasoning and Coat the Steak

In a separate small bowl, combine all the seasoning blend ingredients. This is where the flavor journey begins! Sprinkle the blend generously over your steak bites, then toss them well so every single piece is beautifully coated. Don’t be shy; you want all those nooks and crannies full of smoky, spicy goodness.

Step 3: Preheat the Skillet

Heat your largest, heaviest skillet over medium-high—it should literally be almost smoking before anything touches it. This ensures you get that irresistible caramelized crust. A hot, dry pan makes all the difference for steak bites!

Step 4: Sear the Steak Bites in Batches

Add half of the vegetable oil, swirl to coat, then lay in about half your seasoned steak bites. Don’t crowd the pan; this lets them sear, not steam. Sear for two minutes on one side, flip, and cook another two minutes for deeply browned, juicy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Remove to a plate, then repeat with the rest.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and, without washing the skillet (all those browned bits are flavor gold!), add the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty bits stuck to the pan.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Turn off the heat and return all the steak bites to the skillet. Toss them thoroughly so every piece is coated in that fragrant garlic butter sauce. Finish with a generous sprinkle of minced parsley and serve right away—don’t let anyone miss out on this sizzle!

How to Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garnishes

A shower of freshly minced parsley goes a long way, adding color and a hit of freshness that balances the richness. If you want to go the extra mile, try a pinch of flaky sea salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness that enhances every Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these steak bites with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery corn on the cob to soak up all that luscious garlic butter. A crisp green salad or garlicky sautéed green beans are also excellent choices to lighten things up and offer contrast to the bold Cajun flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the steak bites on skewers as a playful appetizer at parties, or set them atop a toasted baguette slice for a decadent steak crostini. For a hearty main, spoon the Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites over creamy polenta or make them the star of a steak bowl layered with grains and fresh veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites can be cooled and transferred to an airtight container, then stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors get even richer as they sit, making leftovers almost as exciting as the first serving.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled steak bites (with their sauce!) into freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep their boldness and texture for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites gently in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of water or an extra pat of butter to refresh the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the steak and flatten the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made Cajun seasoning instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Store-bought Cajun seasoning is a quick shortcut if you’re short on time. Just taste and adjust the salt and heat level, since spice blends can vary a lot between brands.

What’s the best cut of steak for Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Sirloin, strip, or ribeye all work wonderfully for this recipe—they’re tender with enough marbling to stay juicy under high heat. Choose what looks best at your butcher or grocery store.

How spicy are these steak bites?

They have a mild to medium kick, thanks to the smoked paprika and cayenne, but you can use less cayenne pepper or skip it altogether if you want them milder. Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are very forgiving!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You sure can. Simply swap the butter for your favorite dairy-free alternative. It won’t be quite as rich, but you’ll still have that mouthwatering garlic-scented sauce.

Are Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites good for meal prep?

Definitely. These steak bites reheat well and stay tender, making them great for packing into lunches or using for meal prep bowls throughout the week. Just keep the sauce separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow friends, family, or frankly just yourself, Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are the mouthwatering answer you’ve been waiting for. They’re quick, bold, and absolutely bursting with flavor—so don’t be surprised if this becomes your new weeknight favorite. Give them a try and spice up your dinner routine tonight!