Description
Spicy Cajun Steak Bites are tender strip steak pieces expertly seasoned with a bold Cajun spice blend and seared to perfection in a hot skillet with garlic, jalapeños, and butter. This quick and flavorful dish offers a perfect balance of heat and savory richness, ideal for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak Bites
- 2-14 oz strip steaks
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium jalapeño, thinly sliced
Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne powder
- 1 tbsp red pepper flake
- 1 tbsp fine ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp white pepper
- 1 ½ tbsp oregano
- 2 tsp hot paprika
Instructions
- Prepare Steak Bites: Slice the strip steaks into roughly 3/4-inch size pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, white pepper, oregano, and hot paprika to create the Cajun seasoning blend.
- Season Steak: Place the steak pieces into a mixing bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil until evenly coated. Add 2 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning and mix thoroughly so each piece is well seasoned. Set aside.
- Sear Steak Bites: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering and just starting to smoke. Add the seasoned steak bites and turn frequently to sear all sides evenly. Cook for 3 minutes total, then transfer the steak to a plate. Reduce heat to low and allow the pan to cool for about 2 minutes.
- Create Butter Sauce: Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and use a wooden turner to scrape up all the crispy bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the sliced jalapeños and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Steak and Sauce: Return the steak bites to the pan, mixing them into the garlic-jalapeño butter to coat well and heat through.
- Serve: Plate the steak bites and pour the remaining butter sauce over them for a rich and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Grill marks provide flavor from the Maillard reaction but might miss evenly charring the entire steak surface. Searing smaller steak pieces ensures more flavor development from all sides.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne and jalapeño to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Use a wooden turner or spatula to avoid scratching your pan while scraping up the fond (crispy bits) for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of rice, vegetables, or your favorite salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
