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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Finish with lemon: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun