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 steak bites for a casual weekend dinner and it instantly became a family favorite. The spicy Cajun crust and crispy fries bring restaurant-style comfort home in less than an hour.
Ingredients
- Steak Bites: 1.5 lbs (680 g) sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 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, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Fries: 2 lbs (900 g) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Fries:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss potato fries with vegetable oil, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake Fries:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Prep 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.
- Finish Steak:
- Add butter to the skillet and toss steak bites until coated and glossy.
- Garnish:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve hot steak bites with crispy fries.
Save My kids adore dipping the steak bites in ranch, while my partner loves a hint of extra cayenne for extra spice. It always brings us together for a fun, flavorful dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy aioli, or classic ketchup. These steak bites and fries also pair well with a light beer or chilled rosé wine.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter). Always check seasoning and fries labels for hidden allergens or gluten content. Use gluten-free products if needed.
Required Tools
Large baking sheet, parchment paper, large cast-iron skillet, mixing bowls, tongs, chef's knife and cutting board.
Save This easy recipe brings big Cajun flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy sizzling steak bites and crispy fries any night of the week.
Recipe Guide
- → How do you achieve the blackened crust on steak bites?
Coating the steak cubes evenly with Cajun seasoning and searing them over medium-high heat in a hot skillet creates the signature blackened crust without burning.
- → Can other cuts of beef be used for steak bites?
Yes, tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work best as they remain juicy and cook quickly when cut into cubes.
- → What’s the best way to get fries crispy in the oven?
Coat fries lightly in oil and seasonings, spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake at 425°F, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- → Are there suitable seasoning substitutions for Cajun blend?
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper can mimic Cajun flavors if the seasoning is unavailable.
- → What sides or dips complement steak bites and fries?
Dips like ranch, spicy aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce pair wonderfully, along with light beverages such as chilled rosé or light beer.