When I first made this Cajun Butter Bourbon Steak, I was blown away by the rich, bold flavors that came together in every single bite. I’ve always been a fan of tender, juicy steak, but the combination of that spicy Cajun kick with the smooth, slightly sweet bourbon sauce was next level.

It reminded me of the flavors I enjoy in this ribeye steak dry rub recipe, with its perfect blend of spices enhancing every bite. Trust me, anyone you serve this to will be amazed and ask for seconds!

Ingredients

Steak and Marinade

2 lbs NY Strip Steak, thick cut
¼ cup dark brown sugar
2 tbsp bourbon
4 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup olive oil
⅓ cup dark soy sauce
1½ tbsp grain mustard
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 sprigs thyme
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Cajun Seasoning

1 tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp garlic powder

Finishing Touches

3 tbsp unsalted butter
Parsley, for garnish

Note: The quantities listed make approximately 6 servings.

Variations

Adding your own twist to this recipe is easy! Here are some variations you might enjoy:

Dairy-free: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative and omit any optional cream-based sides.
Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Sugar-free: Replace the brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or omit entirely for less sweetness.
Extra heat: Add more cayenne pepper or throw in a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Herbal twist: Substitute thyme with rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: Up to 6 hours (minimum 30 minutes)
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 23 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large bowl: For preparing and holding the marinade.
Whisk: Helps mix the marinade ingredients into a smooth blend.
Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for searing the steak and locking in flavor.
Small saucepan: To prepare the bourbon butter sauce.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your steak is cooked to the perfect temperature.
Knife: For slicing the steak into even pieces.

How to Make Cajun Butter Bourbon Steak Recipe?

Making this dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with restaurant-quality steak in no time!

Prepare the Seasoning and Steak

Start by mixing all your Cajun seasoning ingredients in a bowl. This blend of spices will bring that signature smoky and spicy flavor to the steak. Generously rub the seasoning all over the steak, ensuring every part is coated. Cover the seasoned steaks and place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour to allow the flavors to settle on the meat.

Create the Marinade

While the steak is resting, combine the marinade ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the brown sugar, bourbon, minced garlic, olive oil, mustard, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, thyme, and a pinch of the Cajun seasoning. Keep half of the marinade aside for making the sauce later.

Place your steaks into the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate the steaks for up to 6 hours.

Cook the Steak

Heat your cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once heated, remove the steak from the marinade and season it lightly with kosher salt and black pepper. Sear the steak in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. Adjust the cooking time based on how you like your steak.

Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and allow it to rest. This resting period keeps the juices locked in, making your steak even more flavorful.

Make the Bourbon Butter Sauce

Take the reserved marinade and transfer it to a small saucepan. Bring it to a rapid boil to kill any bacteria from the raw meat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer it until the sauce begins to thicken. Whisk in the butter until it melts and integrates seamlessly into the sauce.

Serve and Garnish

Slice the steaks into even portions and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle the bourbon butter sauce generously over the steak, and then garnish with parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. You can also enjoy similar recipes, like this flavorful ribeye steak chili recipe, which incorporates bold ingredients in a unique way. Serve immediately!

Source: Pinterest

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish has so many strengths that will make you fall in love with it from the first bite.

Bold flavors: The Cajun seasoning and bourbon sauce create a delicious, well-rounded taste.
Simple process: The steps are straightforward with minimal equipment needed.
Restaurant-quality: Impress guests with a steakhouse-style dish made right at home.
Customizable: You can adjust spices, swap ingredients, or try new variations to suit your taste.
Perfect for occasions: Great for celebrations, date nights, or family dinners.

How to Serve Cajun Butter Bourbon Steak Recipe?

Presentation matters a lot when it comes to serving steak. Arrange slices of the steak neatly on a plate and pour the sauce over the top for a glossy finishing touch. For sides, go for creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or even crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce. If you want to explore more steak options, feel free to check out these versatile steak recipes for inspiration. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or fresh thyme for that extra flair.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 480
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 33g

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re prepping in advance, here’s how to store the steak and sauce properly. Marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance for convenience. After cooking, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. When reheating, stick to low heat to avoid drying out the meat.

The sauce can also be refrigerated in a separate airtight container for up to 5 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop and whisk it again to bring it back to the right consistency.

Tips for Making the Recipe

After a few attempts with this dish, I’ve picked up a couple of handy tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time.

Marinate longer: The more time the steak spends in the marinade, the richer the flavor will be.
Don’t skip resting time: Always rest your steak after cooking to keep it juicy.
Use a thermometer: This is your best tool for cooking steak to the exact doneness you prefer.
Bourbon choice matters: Choose a bourbon you enjoy the taste of, as it’s a key flavor in the sauce.
Double the sauce: If you’re planning to serve multiple side dishes, make extra sauce because it’s that good!

This Cajun Butter Bourbon Steak recipe is truly a game-changer. It’s a dish that takes your steak experience to new heights with its bold flavors, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation. Enjoy every bite!