Pin Juicy, spicy steak bites coated in Cajun seasoning and quickly seared to perfection, served with crispy golden fries for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal.
The first time I made these Cajun steak bites with fries was for a weekend family get-together. Everyone dove in before I even finished plating, and the blend of spicy steak bites with golden fries disappeared in minutes.
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 the fries:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season and cook 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.
- Prepare steak:
- While fries bake, pat steak cubes dry with paper towels.
- Coat 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 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.
- Finish steak bites:
- 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.
Pin My kids love dipping the steak bites and fries in ranch or spicy aioli, making this meal a fun and interactive dinner for everyone around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Cajun steak bites and fries with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal, and offer dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli on the side.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy from butter, and the Cajun seasoning may contain gluten (verify with gluten-sensitive guests). Always check each ingredient for potential allergens.
Required Tools
You'll need a large baking sheet, parchment paper, a cast-iron skillet, mixing bowls, tongs, chef's knife and cutting board for prep and cooking.
Pin Serve hot and fresh for best texture. Leftovers can be crisped up in a skillet for a quick lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Which steak works best for Cajun bites?
Sirloin offers juiciness and tenderness, but ribeye or strip steak can add extra flavor and marbling.
- → How do I get crispy fries in the oven?
Toss cut potatoes in oil and spread evenly on a hot baking sheet, turning once during baking for the best crisp.
- → Can I make these bites spicier?
Increase heat by adding cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning, or serve with spicy sauces.
- → Are these steak bites gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and fries, this dish suits gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What sauces go well on the side?
Popular choices include ranch, spicy aioli, or remoulade for dipping fries and steak bites.
- → Can I substitute sweet potatoes for fries?
Absolutely—sweet potatoes provide a tasty twist and pair well with Cajun seasonings.