Ingredients

For the Wagyu Bites:

  • 1 lb wagyu steak (sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Cajun Garlic Butter:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade, see below)
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Louisiana or Tabasco)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Homemade Cajun Seasoning (if not using store-bought):

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For Serving:

  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) or slider buns
  • Optional: sliced green onions or extra parsley for garnish
  • Optional: remoulade or garlic aioli for dipping

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • Skewers or slider buns

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wagyu

  1. Pat the wagyu cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
  3. Let the cubes sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.

Step 2: Make the Cajun Garlic Butter

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat (or microwave-safe bowl), melt the butter.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (if using stovetop).
  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and keep warm on low heat.

Step 3: Sear the Wagyu

  1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Add the wagyu cubes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms (aim for medium-rare, 130-135°F internal temperature).
  3. Remove cubes from the skillet and place in a large bowl.

Step 4: Toss in Cajun Butter

  1. Pour the warm Cajun garlic butter over the seared wagyu cubes.
  2. Gently toss to coat evenly, ensuring each cube is well-covered.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  1. For Skewers: Thread 3-4 cubes onto each soaked wooden skewer. Garnish with green onions or parsley.
  2. For Sliders: Place 1-2 cubes on each slider bun, drizzle with extra Cajun butter, and top with a dollop of remoulade or garlic aioli if desired.
  3. Serve immediately while hot, with optional dipping sauce on the side.

Tips

  • Wagyu Quality: Wagyu’s high fat content makes it rich and tender; avoid overcooking to preserve its melt-in-the-mouth texture.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne or hot sauce to your preferred heat level.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the Cajun garlic butter up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently before tossing with the steak.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with a cooling side like coleslaw or a cucumber salad to balance the spice.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, 4 servings)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g