Blackened Cajun Steak Bites

Featured in: Quick Weeknight Dinners

These blackened Cajun steak bites deliver a burst of bold, smoky flavors balanced by a crispy, golden exterior. The steak cubes are generously coated with a blend of Cajun spices and quickly seared in a hot skillet to lock in juiciness. Paired with oven-baked fries lightly seasoned with paprika and black pepper, this dish offers the perfect combination of tender meat and crunchy sides. Simple to prepare, this flavorful meal is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings. Garnished with fresh parsley, it provides a satisfying and delicious experience.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 15:32:00 GMT
Juicy blackened Cajun steak bites served with crispy golden fries on a plate.  Pin
Juicy blackened Cajun steak bites served with crispy golden fries on a plate. | garlicgroove.com

Juicy, spicy steak bites coated in Cajun seasoning and quickly seared to perfection, served with crispy golden fries for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal.

This recipe has become a favorite for gatherings thanks to its bold flavors and simple cooking steps I first tried it on a chilly evening and it was a hit with my family.

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

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare 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.
Pat Steak Dry:
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.
Heat Oil:
Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear Steak:
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.
Add Butter:
Add butter to the skillet and toss steak bites until coated and glossy.
Finish and Garnish:
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve:
Serve hot steak bites with crispy fries.
Sizzling blackened Cajun steak bites with vibrant seasoning, served alongside fresh fries.  Pin
Sizzling blackened Cajun steak bites with vibrant seasoning, served alongside fresh fries. | garlicgroove.com

This meal brings my family together especially when served on weekends when everyone wants comfort food with a spicy twist.

Notes

For extra heat add cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning Substitute sweet potatoes for regular fries for a twist Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli Pair with a light beer or chilled rosé wine

Required Tools

Large baking sheet Parchment paper Large cast-iron skillet Mixing bowls Tongs Chefs knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (butter) Check Cajun seasoning for gluten if sensitive use gluten-free brands if needed Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens

Tender blackened Cajun steak bites garnished with parsley and crispy fries for dipping. Pin
Tender blackened Cajun steak bites garnished with parsley and crispy fries for dipping. | garlicgroove.com

Enjoy this quick flavorful dish that is sure to please both family and guests with minimal fuss.

Recipe Questions

What cut of steak works best for these bites?

Sirloin steak is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor, but other tender cuts like ribeye or strip steak can also be used.

How can I achieve a crispy texture on the steak bites?

Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak to create a nice sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.

Can I prepare the fries without a deep fryer?

Yes, oven-baking the fries with vegetable oil, paprika, and black pepper creates a crispy and flavorful side without frying.

What variations can I try with the seasoning?

Adding cayenne pepper can increase heat, or experimenting with smoked paprika and garlic powder adjusts the smoky and savory notes.

Are there suitable dipping options to serve alongside?

Ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or a chilled light beer complement the dish well and enhance the flavor experience.

Blackened Cajun Steak Bites

Tender, spicy steak bites seasoned Cajun style, seared and served alongside crispy golden fries.

Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
40 min


Complexity Easy

Heritage American, Cajun

Output 4 Portions

Dietary requirements None specified

Components

Steak Bites

01 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 2 tbsp olive oil
03 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
04 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 0.5 tsp garlic powder
06 0.5 tsp onion powder
07 0.5 tsp dried thyme
08 0.5 tsp dried oregano
09 0.5 tsp black pepper
10 0.5 tsp salt
11 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Fries

01 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
02 2 tbsp vegetable oil
03 1 tsp salt
04 0.5 tsp paprika
05 0.25 tsp black pepper

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Fries: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss cut potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Arrange fries evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.

Step 02

Season Steak Cubes: Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add steak cubes and toss thoroughly to coat.

Step 03

Sear Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until well browned and cooked to desired doneness.

Step 04

Finish Steak Bites: Add unsalted butter to the skillet and toss the steak bites until they are coated and glossy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 05

Serve: Plate the hot steak bites alongside the crispy fries and serve immediately.

Necessary tools

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large cast-iron skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Chef's knife and cutting board

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if you're uncertain about anything.
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Verify Cajun seasoning for gluten; use certified gluten-free if necessary

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 540
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Protein: 36 g