Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the steak pieces in the spice mixture until they are well coated.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet, then add the spiced steak bites.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned on all sides and cooked to your desired doneness.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the cheddar cheese with the milk over low heat. Stir constantly until smooth.
- Stir in the diced jalapeños into the melted cheddar.
- Drizzle the cheddar lava over the cooked steak bites in the skillet.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve Sweet Heat Skillet Steak Bites, consider pairing them with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that cheesy drizzle. You might also want to add a side salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the steak and cheese. For a casual vibe, serve the bites as an appetizer alongside toothpicks or mini skewers—perfect for game day gatherings!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be hard, given how delicious these are), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, try using the oven at a low temperature to preserve the steak’s tenderness. If you plan to freeze them, keep in mind that the texture of the cheese sauce may change after thawing, but the flavors will remain intact.
Pro chef tips
One way to amp up flavors is to marinate the steak in the spice mixture for a few hours before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the steak incredibly tender. Also, remember to pat the steak dry with paper towels before searing to achieve that lovely golden crust!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—pepper jack or gouda would add unique flavors. For a lighter version, substitute the steak with portobello mushrooms or even shrimp for a seafood twist. If you’re looking to spice things up further, consider adding a splash of hot sauce into the cheese drizzle for an extra kick.
FAQ
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time typically takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 15-20 minutes, so you’ll have dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, tender cuts like ribeye or filet mignon would work well, too. Just adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the pieces.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Make sure to allow the steak bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 3 days for the best quality. Remember to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!
Embrace bold flavors and satisfy your cravings with these irresistible Sweet Heat Skillet Steak Bites—your dinner routine just got a whole lot tastier!
