Save Juicy, spicy steak bites coated in Cajun seasoning and quickly seared to perfection, served with crispy golden fries for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal.
I first made these blackened Cajun steak bites for a small backyard gathering and they disappeared in minutes. The combination of tender steak and fries is always a hit with friends and family.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1.5 lbs (680 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Cajun seasoning: 2 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
- Russet potatoes: 2 lbs (900 g), peeled and cut into fries
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Prep fries:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season & bake fries:
- Toss potato fries with vegetable oil, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Dry steak:
- While fries bake, pat steak cubes dry with paper towels.
- Season steak:
- In a large bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add steak cubes and toss to coat evenly.
- Sear steak:
- Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until well browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Butter finish:
- Add butter to the skillet and toss steak bites until coated and glossy.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot steak bites with crispy fries.
Save My kids love helping toss the potatoes in seasoning and claim the fries are the best part of this meal. It always brings everyone together around the table.
Required Tools
To prepare this recipe, you will need a large baking sheet, parchment paper, a large cast iron skillet, mixing bowls, tongs, a chef's knife, and a cutting board.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy from butter. Check Cajun seasoning for gluten if sensitive and opt for gluten-free brands as needed. Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 540 calories, 27 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 36 g protein.
Save Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture. This recipe always impresses and makes dinner feel extra special.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of meat is best for steak bites?
Sirloin steak is ideal for steak bites due to its tenderness and flavor, allowing quick cooking without becoming tough.
- → How do I achieve a crispy texture on fries?
Coat fries lightly with oil, season well, and bake at a high temperature, turning once halfway for even crispiness.
- → Can I make the steak bites spicier?
Yes, adding cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning mix boosts the heat for a more intense flavor.
- → What is the purpose of adding butter at the end?
Butter adds richness and gloss to the steak bites, enhancing flavor and providing a silky finish.
- → Are there good alternatives to regular fries?
Sweet potato fries can be used as a flavorful and slightly sweeter alternative to russet potato fries.