Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Rich Parmesan Sauce
This dish is loaded with bold Cajun flavor, creamy mashed potatoes, and a luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce β a hearty, satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality but is easy to make at home.
π½οΈ Ingredients
β For the Cajun Steak Bites:
- 2 lbs (900g) steak filet, ribeye, or sirloin, cut into 2β3 inch pieces
- 4β5 tablespoons avocado oil (or any high-smoke point oil)
- 1Β½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)
β For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) Yukon gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Β½ cup (120ml) milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
β For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided
- 10 cloves garlic, minced (divided: 6 for sauce, 4 for steak if desired)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1Β½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or nutmeg
π¨βπ³ Instructions
π₯ Step 1: Cook the Mashed Potatoes
- In a large pot, cover potatoes with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 15β20 minutes).
- Drain, then mash with butter and milk/cream until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside.
π₯© Step 2: Make the Cajun Steak Bites
- Pat steak pieces dry. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Sear steak bites in batches (donβt overcrowd the pan) for 2β3 minutes per side until golden brown and medium-rare to medium.
- Optional: Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic (from the reserved 4 cloves) at the end for extra flavor. Toss and remove from heat.
- Set aside and let rest while you make the sauce.
π§ Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 6 cloves of minced garlic. SautΓ© until fragrant (1β2 minutes).
- Add remaining 3 tablespoons butter and sprinkle in the flour. Cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thick and creamy (about 5β7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes or nutmeg if using.
π§ Assemble the Dish
- Plate a generous scoop of cheesy mashed potatoes.
- Top with Cajun steak bites.
- Drizzle warm Parmesan cream sauce over everything.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
π΄ Description
This dish brings a steakhouse-quality meal to your kitchen: tender Cajun-spiced steak bites, creamy mashed potatoes loaded with cheese, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce that ties it all together. Bold, creamy, spicy, and satisfying!
π‘ Tips for Success
- Use high-quality steak for tenderness. Filet or sirloin is ideal.
- Sear in a hot pan and avoid overcrowding to get a good crust.
- For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer.
- The sauce thickens as it cools β loosen with a splash of milk if needed.
π Estimated Nutritional Info (Per Serving β Serves 4β6)
- Calories: ~650β800
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 45g
- Carbs: 20β25g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values will vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.)
π Conclusion
Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food fusion β bold, indulgent, and layered with flavor. It’s a guaranteed hit for special dinners or a cozy night in.
β Recommendation
Pair with:
- A side salad or steamed green beans
- A bold red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon) or iced tea
- Warm dinner rolls to soak up the sauce