If you’re searching for a meal that’s packed with flavor, fast to prepare, and guaranteed to satisfy any steak lover, these Cajun Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms are about to become your new favorite. With perfectly seared steak bites, tender mushrooms, and a buttery Cajun finish, this dish is everything a weeknight dinner should be: quick, easy, and bursting with bold flavor.
Even better? It’s all done in the air fryer, meaning no grease splatter, no babysitting a skillet, and a faster cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping, or impressing a date, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Air fryer convenience – Minimal mess and hands-off cooking.
- Smoky Cajun flavor – Perfectly seasoned with bold spices and buttery finish.
- Protein-packed and satisfying – Great for low-carb, keto, or high-protein diets.
- Customizable sides – Pairs well with anything from salad to rice or roasted veggies.
- Quick prep + fast cook time – From fridge to fork in under an hour.
This dish is ideal for busy home cooks, steak enthusiasts, and anyone who wants maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up these tender steak bites and buttery mushrooms:
- 1 lb beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2½ tbsp oil
- ½ tbsp Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning
- ¾ tsp paprika
- ¾ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp oil (for mushrooms)
- 2½ tbsp butter
Tip: If you don’t have Tony Chachere’s, use any Cajun or Creole seasoning blend you love.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer (basket-style or oven-style)
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter or bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cajun Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine:
- ½ tablespoon Creole seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Mix well.
2. Prep the Steak and Mushrooms
Cut your beef tenderloin into 1½-inch x 1-inch pieces. Add the steak pieces, sliced baby bella mushrooms, 2½ tablespoons of oil, and your seasoning mix to a large bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Let this marinate for 30 minutes to 1½ hours in the refrigerator. The longer it rests, the more flavor it absorbs.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Cook in Batches
To avoid overcrowding, cook the steak and mushrooms in 2 separate batches.
- Arrange steak bites in a single layer with space between each piece to prevent steaming.
- Air fry at 400°F for 6–10 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:
- 6 minutes = rare
- 8 minutes = medium
- 10 minutes = medium-well
For mushrooms, air fry separately at 400°F for 6 minutes.
5. Toss with Butter
Once cooked, toss the steak bites and mushrooms in a bowl with 2½ tablespoons of butter until coated and glossy. Add an extra sprinkle of Creole seasoning or salt, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Cajun butter steak bites with mushrooms and serve with your favorite side. Dinner is done!
Tips, Variations, and Swaps
- No beef tenderloin? Use sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak. Just avoid tough cuts like chuck unless marinated longer.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Use garlic butter: Add minced garlic to the butter for even more depth.
- Add a veggie: Toss in bell peppers or asparagus for a one-pan-style meal.
- Fresh herbs: Finish with chopped parsley or green onions for color and brightness.
Perfect Pairings
Wondering what to serve with your Cajun butter steak bites? Here are some tasty ideas:
Starches
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Cajun-style dirty rice
- Buttery couscous
- Creamy grits
Veggies
- Roasted brussels sprouts
- Steamed broccoli
- Charred corn
- Grilled asparagus
- Mixed greens or Caesar salad
Beverages
- Red wine: Try a bold Cabernet or Zinfandel.
- Beer: A cold IPA or lager pairs beautifully.
- Non-alcoholic: Iced tea with lemon or sparkling water with lime.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked steak and mushrooms for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating tips:
- Air fryer: 350°F for 3–4 minutes
- Skillet: Reheat with a pat of butter on medium heat
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds on medium power (cover with a paper towel)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a stovetop instead of an air fryer?
Yes! Simply sear the steak in a hot skillet with oil over high heat for 2–3 minutes per side. Sauté the mushrooms separately in butter, then combine everything at the end.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein. Just skip starchy sides like rice or potatoes.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Swap the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Cook the steak bites and mushrooms, let cool, and portion into meal prep containers with your choice of sides. Reheat when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
These Cajun Butter Steak Bites with Mushrooms are the definition of crave-worthy comfort food. With a fiery Creole kick, juicy tender beef, and buttery mushrooms, this dish will elevate any evening — all with the ease of air frying.
No fuss. No mess. Just bold, buttery bliss in every bite.
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