Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp smoked paprika; 1½ tsp kosher salt; 1½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or less, to taste); ½ tsp packed light brown sugar; 1½ 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

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I love how this recipe turns simple steak into flavorful bites, perfectly seasoned with homemade Cajun spices and coated in a rich garlic‑butter sauce. It’s quick, indulgent, and just right for a satisfying meal or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m all about bold, satisfying flavors—and this delivers. The Cajun seasoning gives a smoky, spicy kick, while the garlic butter ties everything together with richness. Plus, I can have it from start to finish in about 30 minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser whether served as a main course or shared on a grazing board.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cajun seasoning blend

1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1½ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
½ teaspoon packed light brown sugar

Steak bites & sauce

1½ lbs steak (strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, etc.)
2 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
3 tablespoon unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
Minced fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

I start by slicing the steak into roughly 2-inch pieces and placing them in a bowl.
I mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, then coat the steak pieces thoroughly.
I heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot.
I add 1 tablespoon of oil, then sear half the steak pieces without moving them for 2 minutes to get a crust, flip, and sear the other side for another 2 minutes. I repeat this with the second batch.
I reduce the heat to medium-low, melt the butter in the skillet, and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds.
I return the steak bites to the skillet, toss them in the garlic butter, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the homemade Cajun blend for a pre-made mix when I’m in a rush.
If I want more heat, I add extra cayenne or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
When I want a touch of sweetness, I add a bit more brown sugar to the seasoning.
I’ve also made this with chicken or shrimp using the same steps and it works great.
For a buttery herb version, I skip the Cajun and just use garlic, butter, and fresh rosemary or thyme.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat with a bit of butter to keep them juicy. Microwaving works too, but I do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What’s the best steak to use for steak bites?

I prefer using sirloin, strip steak, or ribeye since they’re tender and cook quickly.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, I often prep the steak and seasoning ahead of time and cook it when ready to eat.

How do I make it less spicy?

I just reduce or skip the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor without losing the Cajun taste.

Can I use frozen steak?

Yes, I thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning to make sure it sears well.

What can I serve with this?

I like serving these with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

Conclusion

I love how this dish transforms everyday steak into something exciting and flavorful without much effort. The Cajun spices bring the heat, and the garlic butter brings comfort. Whether I’m hosting friends or just making dinner for myself, this recipe always hits the spot.

Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing
Cuisine: American

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Description

Cajun Garlic Butter Steak Bites are bold, juicy pieces of steak seasoned with a homemade Cajun spice blend and finished in a rich garlic-butter sauce. Perfect for a quick meal or a flavorful appetizer.

Instructions

Slice the steak into roughly 2″ pieces and set aside in a bowl.
Combine Cajun seasoning spices in a small bowl, then toss with the steak until evenly coated.
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high until it just begins to smoke.
Add 1 tablespoon oil. Place half the steak bites in the pan, searing 2 minutes on one side without moving, then flip and sear another 2 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining oil and steak.
Lower heat to medium-low. Add butter to the same skillet, letting it melt. Stir in garlic, cooking about 30 seconds while scraping up browned bits.
Turn off heat, return steak bites to the pan, tossing to coat in garlic butter. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.