Blackened Steak Bites with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce: A Flavor Explosion

Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game or create a quick and satisfying dinner? Look no further than these incredible blackened steak bites served with a luscious blue cheese sauce. This recipe combines the bold, smoky flavors of blackened steak with the tangy, creamy richness of blue cheese, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It’s surprisingly easy to make, impressive to serve, and endlessly customizable to your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or simply a special weeknight treat.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavor Packed:** The combination of blackened spices and blue cheese sauce is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Quick & Easy:** From prep to plate, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
* **Impressive Presentation:** These steak bites look and taste like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant.
* **Versatile:** Serve them as an appetizer, a light meal, or even as a topping for salads or pasta.
* **Customizable:** Adjust the spice level and blue cheese intensity to your liking.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for both the steak bites and the blue cheese sauce:

### For the Blackened Steak Bites:

* **Steak:** 1.5-2 pounds of steak, cut into 1-inch cubes. Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are all excellent choices. Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
* **Blackening Seasoning:** 2-3 tablespoons of blackening seasoning. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own (recipe below).
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. This is for searing the steak bites.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

### For the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce:

* **Blue Cheese:** 4 ounces, crumbled. Use a good quality blue cheese for the best flavor. Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton are all great options.
* **Mayonnaise:** 1/2 cup. Provides the base for the sauce.
* **Sour Cream:** 1/4 cup. Adds tanginess and creaminess.
* **Milk:** 2-3 tablespoons. Used to thin the sauce to the desired consistency.
* **Garlic:** 1 clove, minced. Adds a subtle savory note.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 teaspoon. Brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness.
* **Fresh Chives:** 1-2 tablespoons, chopped (optional, for garnish).
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

## Homemade Blackening Seasoning Recipe (Optional)

If you prefer to make your own blackening seasoning, here’s a simple recipe:

* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Store in an airtight container.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect blackened steak bites with blue cheese sauce:

### Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. **Cut the Steak:** Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a good sear. Using a sharp knife, cut the steak into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
2. **Season the Steak:** In a bowl, toss the steak bites with the blackening seasoning. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning – it’s what gives the steak its signature blackened flavor.

### Step 2: Make the Blue Cheese Sauce

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
2. **Mix Well:** Stir the ingredients together until well combined. The sauce will be thick at this point.
3. **Adjust Consistency:** Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be creamy and pourable, but not too thin.
4. **Season to Taste:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that blue cheese is already quite salty, so be careful not to over-salt.
5. **Chill (Optional):** For best results, cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional, but it will improve the overall taste of the sauce.

### Step 3: Cook the Steak Bites

1. **Heat the Oil:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak. A cast iron skillet is ideal for searing steak, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
2. **Sear the Steak:** Add the steak bites to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the steak from searing properly. If necessary, cook the steak in batches.
3. **Cook to Desired Doneness:** Cook the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Do not overcook. Overcooked steak will be tough and dry.
4. **Rest (Optional):** Remove the steak bites from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

### Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. **Arrange the Steak Bites:** Arrange the blackened steak bites on a platter or serving dish.
2. **Drizzle with Sauce:** Drizzle the blue cheese sauce generously over the steak bites.
3. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with fresh chopped chives, if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the steak bites immediately while they are still warm. Offer toothpicks or small forks for easy serving.

## Tips for Perfect Blackened Steak Bites

* **Use High Heat:** High heat is essential for achieving a good sear and that signature blackened crust. Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the steak.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent the steak from searing properly. Cook the steak in batches if necessary.
* **Don’t Overcook the Steak:** Overcooked steak will be tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and cook the steak to your desired level of doneness.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to the blackening seasoning. If you prefer a milder dish, use less.
* **Let the Steak Rest:** Letting the steak rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
* **Experiment with Blue Cheese Varieties:** Try different types of blue cheese to find your favorite flavor. Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton are all great options.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Cuts of Steak:** While sirloin, ribeye, and New York strip are excellent choices, you can also use other cuts of steak, such as flank steak or skirt steak. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Different Spices:** Experiment with different spices in your blackening seasoning. Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder are all great additions.
* **Creamy Horseradish Sauce:** If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute a creamy horseradish sauce. Simply combine horseradish, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a touch of lemon juice.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Serve with Different Dips:** Offer a variety of dips alongside the steak bites, such as ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard.
* **Add Vegetables:** Serve the steak bites with grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
* **Make it a Salad:** Toss the steak bites with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a hearty and flavorful salad.
* **Serve over Pasta:** Toss the steak bites and blue cheese sauce with cooked pasta for a quick and easy meal.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Ensure that your blackening seasoning is gluten-free and serve the steak bites without any gluten-containing sides.

## Serving Suggestions

These blackened steak bites with blue cheese sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Appetizer:** Serve them as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Game Day Snack:** These steak bites are the perfect game day snack. Serve them with plenty of napkins and your favorite beverages.
* **Light Meal:** Enjoy them as a light meal with a side salad or some crusty bread.
* **Date Night Dinner:** Impress your date with these elegant and flavorful steak bites.
* **Party Platter:** Create a party platter with these steak bites, along with other appetizers such as cheese and crackers, olives, and crudités.

## Storage Instructions

* **Steak Bites:** Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
* **Blue Cheese Sauce:** Store leftover blue cheese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly in the refrigerator, so you may need to add a little milk to thin it out before serving.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* **Calories:** Approximately 350-450 per serving (depending on the cut of steak and the amount of sauce used)
* **Protein:** 30-40 grams per serving
* **Fat:** 20-30 grams per serving
* **Carbohydrates:** 5-10 grams per serving

*Note: This is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Skillet (Cast Iron Recommended)
* Mixing Bowls
* Whisk or Spoon
* Cutting Board
* Sharp Knife
* Meat Thermometer (Optional, but Recommended)

## Blackened Steak Bites with Blue Cheese Sauce Recipe

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 25 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6

### Ingredients:

* 1.5-2 pounds steak, cut into 1-inch cubes (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip recommended)
* 2-3 tablespoons blackening seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1-2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Steak Bites:** Pat the steak dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with blackening seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. **Make the Blue Cheese Sauce:** In a bowl, combine blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well and add milk until desired consistency is reached. Season to taste and chill (optional).
3. **Cook the Steak Bites:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Arrange steak bites on a platter, drizzle with blue cheese sauce, and garnish with chives (optional). Serve immediately.

## Conclusion

These blackened steak bites with creamy blue cheese sauce are a guaranteed hit! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner or an impressive appetizer to wow your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with us in the comments below! Enjoy!