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30 Minute Cajun Butter Steak and Peppers Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

A flavorful and quick 30-minute Cajun Butter Steak and Peppers recipe featuring tender beef seasoned with bold spices, sautéed bell peppers, and a rich garlic butter sauce served over steamed rice, topped with fresh avocado and herbs for a vibrant, satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Beef and Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 pounds cubed beef tenderloin, ribeye, or flank steak sliced against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus additional thyme for serving
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 3 bell peppers, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • Juice from 1 lemon

To Serve

  • 3 cups steamed rice
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, and/or mint for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the beef: In a medium bowl, combine the beef cubes or sliced steak with fresh thyme leaves, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss well to evenly coat the meat with the spices.
  2. Cook the peppers: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced bell peppers and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the peppers become soft and tender. Remove the peppers from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sear the steak: Return the skillet to high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned beef to the pan and cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes to develop a nice sear. Stir the beef and cook undisturbed for another 3 to 5 minutes until the steak is browned and starting to caramelize.
  4. Add butter and garlic: Reduce heat to medium-high, then add the 4 tablespoons of salted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Toss the steak to coat it in the butter and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and caramelized.
  5. Finish with lemon: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  6. Assemble the dish: Serve the cooked steak and peppers over steamed rice. Top with sliced avocado and garnish with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint. Enjoy the bold and savory meal!

Notes

  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper to make the dish milder or spicier according to your preference.
  • Using ribeye or tenderloin will yield a more tender steak; flank steak is leaner but still flavorful.
  • Use any color combination of bell peppers to add vibrant color and sweetness.
  • Fresh herbs add a refreshing contrast to the rich buttery steak; feel free to omit if unavailable.
  • For a low-carb version, substitute steamed rice with cauliflower rice or leafy greens.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when searing the steak to achieve a proper sear.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Cajun