Save to Pinterest 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 remember testing this recipe for a weekend movie night, and everyone kept sneaking steak bites before the fries were even done baking. The combination of spicy and crispy was an instant hit.
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 (for fries): 1 tsp
- Paprika (for fries): 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper (for fries): 1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare the 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 for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Prep the steak bites:
- While fries bake, 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 to coat evenly.
- Cook the steak bites:
- 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.
- Add butter and finish:
- Add butter to the skillet and toss steak bites until coated and glossy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve hot steak bites with crispy fries.
Save to Pinterest Making this with my family, we love customizing with extra heat for those who can handle it, plus a variety of dips to please everyone at the table.
Variations
Try substituting sweet potatoes for regular fries to add color and sweetness, or toss steak bites in honey for a sticky glaze twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a light beer or chilled rosé wine, and serve with ranch or spicy aioli as dipping sauces for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Each serving has approximately 540 calories, 27 g fat, 38 g carbs, and 36 g protein, making it a balanced plate for dinner or parties.
Save to Pinterest This spicy main dish is sure to become a new favorite for casual dinners or game day—a delicious way to enjoy steak and fries together.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get the steak bites tender and juicy?
Pat the steak cubes dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear. Use high heat and cook briefly, about 1–2 minutes per side, to lock in moisture without overcooking.
- → Can I make the fries crispy without frying?
Baking the fries at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) and turning halfway ensures a crispy exterior and tender inside without frying.
- → What seasoning blend creates the Cajun flavor?
The mix includes smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and Cajun seasoning; adding cayenne can boost the heat.
- → Are there substitutions for regular fries?
Sweet potato fries can be used as a flavorful alternative, baking them similarly for a sweet and savory balance.
- → What sides or drinks pair well with this dish?
Light beers or chilled rosé complement the rich, spicy steak bites, and tangy dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli enhance the overall flavor.