Description
Cajun Butter Bourbon-Style Steak is a bold and flavorful main course featuring juicy ribeye or sirloin steaks seared to perfection and finished with a rich, spicy Cajun butter sauce. This sauce has warm, slightly sweet notes inspired by bourbon but uses a vanilla extract substitute to keep it alcohol-free. It’s a hearty and savory dish ideal for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cajun Butter Sauce (Alcohol-Free)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (bourbon-style flavor substitute)
Instructions
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then generously season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the Steaks: Add the steaks to the hot skillet and sear for 3–5 minutes per side depending on their thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest to preserve their juices.
- Prepare the Cajun Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter to the same skillet and allow it to melt completely.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Cook this mixture for 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the sauce’s depth.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and vanilla extract, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Spoon the warm Cajun butter bourbon-style sauce generously over the rested steaks before serving to elevate the dish’s flavor and richness.
Notes
- The combination of vanilla extract and brown sugar creates a bourbon-inspired sweetness without using alcohol, keeping the recipe family-friendly.
- Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking helps retain their natural juices, resulting in a tender and juicy bite.
- This steak pairs wonderfully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice to complete your meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
