Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re looking to impress your friends and family, or just treat yourself, I can’t think of anything better than Blackened Steak with Cajun Cowboy Butter. Seriously, this meal is a game-changer! I remember the first time I had a steak like this—my friend Bob invited me over for a cookout, and the aroma from the grill was absolutely intoxicating. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning and rich, velvety butter sent me straight to flavor heaven. I’ve been drooling over this recipe ever since!
Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also super simple to whip up, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life (or maybe sipping a cold drink while you grill!). I love how the seasoning creates that beautiful blackened crust, locking in all the juicy goodness of the steak. And let’s not even get me started on the Cajun Cowboy Butter—it’s like a flavor explosion that just takes the steak to another level. So, let’s get cooking!
What’s in Blackened Steak with Cajun Cowboy Butter?
Ribeye Steaks: This cut is perfect for grilling (or pan-searing) because it’s rich in flavor and tenderness. The marbling of fat ensures that the steaks stay juicy and delicious.
Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices that typically includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and other goodies. It’s what gives the steak that bold and zesty kick. I usually opt for the homemade kind when I can—so easy to make and you can control the heat!
Vegetable Oil: For cooking the steaks, I prefer a neutral oil with a high smoke point. This allows for that great sear without burning.
Unsalted Butter: The star of the show in the cowboy butter! It adds richness and helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Always remember to use unsalted; you can adjust the saltiness to your taste.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish, it adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
Minced Garlic: A flavor enhancer that adds warmth and depth. Just a bit really heightens the butter’s taste.
Lemon Juice & Worcestershire Sauce: Both of these ingredients add acidity to balance the richness of the butter and steak, rounding out the flavors perfectly.
Is Blackened Steak with Cajun Cowboy Butter Good for You?
Oh, my friends, let’s dive into the good stuff! While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s also packed with some nutritional ups and downs.
Ribeye Steaks: Beef is a great source of protein and iron, helping to build muscle and keep energy levels boosted. That said, moderation is key—enjoying a steak isn’t an everyday meal for most!
Cajun Seasoning: Depending on the brand or recipe, it can be a bit high in sodium, so be sure to adjust your salt levels when preparing. But it’s such a rich source of exciting flavor that you just can’t resist!
Butter: Yes, it’s rich in calories and fat, but those fats are also a source of energy and necessary for good health in moderation. Plus, you only need a tablespoon or two for that beautiful flavor!
So, indulge a little, but remember that even the most delicious meals benefit from balance!
Ingredients
– 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Optional garnish: extra parsley and lemon wedges
This recipe serves about 2, perfect for a date night or a cozy dinner for yourself!
How to Make Blackened Steak with Cajun Cowboy Butter?
1. **Prepare the Cajun Cowboy Butter**: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well blended. Set aside.
2. **Season the Steak**: Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides of the steaks with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
3. **Preheat the Pan**: In a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. **Cook the Steak**: Carefully add the steaks to the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, until a deep, dark crust forms. Flip the steaks and cook for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time for desired doneness (a meat thermometer works wonders here: 130°F for medium rare, 140°F for medium).
5. **Baste the Steaks**: During the last minute of cooking, add half of the Cajun cowboy butter on top of each steak. Allow it to melt and baste the steaks with the melted butter for extra flavor.
6. **Rest the Steaks**: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This helps retain the juices, making for a more flavorful bite!
7. **Serve**: Slice the steaks against the grain, serve with the remaining Cajun cowboy butter on top, and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions for a Delicious Experience
Okay, my friend, here are a couple of tips! Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to cut through the richness of the steak. If you’re looking for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or loaded baked potatoes would be a bowl of pure joy! And don’t forget a tall glass of red wine—this combo is just divine!
I can’t wait for you to try this Blackened Steak with Cajun Cowboy Butter! Trust me, once you do, it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations with me! Happy cooking!
