Cajun Garlic Butter Steak (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cajun seasoning blend

01 - 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
02 - 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1 tsp onion powder
05 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
06 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
07 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or less, to taste
08 - 1/2 tsp packed light brown sugar
09 - 1/4 tsp dried thyme

→ Steak bites

10 - 1 1/2 lbs. steak (strip steak, sirloin, ribeye, etc.)
11 - 2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided
12 - 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
13 - 5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
14 - Minced fresh parsley, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Slice steak into roughly 2-inch pieces and set aside in a mixing bowl.
02 - In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, light brown sugar, and dried thyme.
03 - Add the seasoning blend to the mixing bowl with the steak bites and toss to coat evenly.
04 - Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat for several minutes until wisps of smoke form.
05 - Add 1 Tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl to coat. Add half the steak bites, ensuring the skillet is not overcrowded. Sear for 2 minutes without flipping, then flip and sear for another 2 minutes until well-browned. Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining oil and steak bites.
06 - Reduce heat to medium-low and re-use the same skillet without washing. Add butter, let it melt, then stir in garlic. Cook for 30 seconds while deglazing the skillet using a wooden spoon to scrape browned bits from the bottom.
07 - Turn off the heat, return the steak bites to the skillet, and stir well to coat with the garlic butter.
08 - Serve hot, garnished with minced fresh parsley.

# Notes:

01 - For smaller steak bites, cut the steak into 1-inch pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
02 - The Cajun seasoning blend can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences.