As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing scent of roasted potatoes mingled with spices danced through the air, instantly brightening my mood. This Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes and Spicy Slaw is more than just dinner; it’s a delightful escape from the ordinary. Picture this: succulent bavette steak sizzling on the griddle, paired with crispy Cajun-seasoned potatoes that boast both crunch and flavor. Topping it all off is a vibrant slaw that adds a refreshing kick, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for a cozy evening at home or a romantic meal for two.
After a week of long workdays, the thought of preparing something exquisite yet simple felt liberating. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe showcases the beauty of flavorful cooking without overwhelming complexity. Trust me; your taste buds are in for a treat! Whether you’re impressing a date or simply treating yourself, this dish ensures satisfaction with every bite. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why love Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes?
Unforgettable Flavor: This dish brings together the boldness of Cajun spices and the smokiness of the steak for a taste that lingers long after the meal.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour.
Perfect for Two: Whether it’s a special date night or a cozy dinner at home, this meal is ideal for sharing.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant hues of the spicy slaw and golden potatoes not only taste amazing but also make your plate pop with color.
Versatile Pairings: Team it with a light red wine, or serve with additional veggies for a hearty weeknight dinner.
This recipe is sure to impress, making it a go-to for any culinary enthusiast looking for a delicious escape from the mundane!
Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Maris Piper Potatoes – Perfect for roasting; cut into 1.5cm chunks for even cooking.
• Cajun Seasoning – Infuses the potatoes with a spicy kick; swap with any spicy seasoning blend if needed.
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor while roasting; can be replaced with oil that has a high smoke point.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes; adjust to taste.
For the Steak
• Bavette Steak – Tender and flavorful; other steak cuts may be used but adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Olive Oil – Rubbed on the steak for moisture and browning; again, opt for a high smoke point oil if necessary.
• Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that highlight the steak’s rich flavors.
For the Spicy Slaw
• Red Cabbage – Adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant color; can substitute with green cabbage if preferred.
• Red Onion – Provides sweetness and crunch; yellow onion makes a milder alternative.
• Mayonnaise – Base for creaminess; Greek yogurt serves as a lighter option.
• Soured Cream – Adds tanginess; more mayonnaise or yogurt can be used instead.
• Chipotle Chilli Paste – Infuses the slaw with heat and smokiness; adjust to taste with any chili paste or sauce.
• Coriander (for garnish) – Brightens up the dish; can be swapped with parsley if desired.
Dive into this Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw, and let your taste buds celebrate!
How to Make Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan/gas mark 7). Start by boiling salted water in a large pan. Add in the potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes. Drain and let them steam for a few minutes for a perfect crisp.
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Toss the potatoes with Cajun seasoning, half the olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Spread them out on a baking tray, then roast for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
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Prepare the slaw by mixing the shredded red cabbage, sliced red onion, mayonnaise, soured cream, and chipotle chili paste in a bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, then set aside to let the flavors meld.
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Rub the bavette steak with the remaining olive oil, and season it with salt and pepper. Heat a griddle pan until it’s sizzling hot. Cook the steak for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Serve the sliced steak with the crispy roasted potatoes garnished with fresh coriander and the spicy slaw on the side.
Optional: Drizzle a little lime juice over the slaw for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these simple twists and swaps to make the recipe your own.
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Chicken Alternative: Swap the bavette steak for grilled chicken breast, marinated in Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
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Mushroom Delight: For a vegetarian option, use portobello mushrooms instead of steak; they’ll soak up the smoky goodness beautifully.
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Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute Maris Piper potatoes with sweet potatoes to add a hint of sweetness, balancing the spice.
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Milder Slaw: Reduce the chipotle chili paste or replace it with a milder salsa for a less spicy slaw that everyone can enjoy.
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Greek Yogurt Slaw: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy version of the spicy slaw that still delivers creaminess.
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Add Texture: Incorporate grated carrots or diced bell peppers into the slaw for an extra crunch and burst of color.
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Herb Enhancements: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or chives in the slaw for a refreshing twist that brightens up each bite.
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Heat Level Variations: Experiment with different types of chili paste or fresh jalapeños for varying levels of heat in your slaw.
Let your taste buds lead the way as you create your perfect version of this comforting dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Cajun potatoes by cutting and tossing them in olive oil and seasoning up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to roast. The spicy slaw can also be made up to 3 days ahead; mix all the ingredients but wait to add the chipotle chili paste until just before serving to maintain its freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy, roast the potatoes straight from the fridge and grill the steak for a flavorful dinner with minimal effort—and just like that, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!
How to Store and Freeze Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover smoky steak and Cajun potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the cooked steak (sliced or whole) and potatoes for up to 3 months. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Spicy Slaw: The slaw is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. If it starts to wilt, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat both the steak and potatoes in an oven set to 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, usually about 10-15 minutes. This helps regain their crispiness while enjoying the smoky steak with Cajun potatoes again!
What to Serve with Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the bold flavors of this dish.
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Garlic Green Beans:
Bright and crunchy, green beans sautéed with garlic add freshness that balances the richness of the steak. -
Creamy Coleslaw:
A classic pairing with a creamy tang, coleslaw offers a softer texture that beautifully contrasts the spicy slaw. -
Herbed Quinoa:
This nutty grain provides a wholesome base, soaking up flavors while adding a chewy texture to each bite. -
Crispy Brussels Sprouts:
Roasted until caramelized, these sprouts lend a slightly bitter bite that cuts through the savory steak and potatoes. -
Cornbread Muffins:
Sweet, moist cornbread adds a comforting element to your meal, enhancing the Cajun flavors with its warm, buttery goodness. -
Light Red Wine:
A glass of Pinot Noir perfectly complements the smoky steak, creating a harmonic blend of flavors for a sophisticated touch. -
Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
For those craving extra indulgence, creamy mashed potatoes bring an ultra-smooth texture that lovingly contrasts the spiced potatoes.
Each of these pairings harmonizes beautifully with the Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw, elevating your meal to unforgettable heights!
Expert Tips for Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes
Preheat Properly: Make sure your griddle pan is sizzling hot before adding the steak; this creates a perfect sear and locks in flavor.
Resting Time: Don’t skip letting the steak rest after cooking. This helps retain the juices, leading to a more succulent bite.
Watch the Potatoes: Stir the Cajun potatoes halfway through roasting. This ensures they achieve an even, crispy texture without burning.
Customize the Slaw: For a twist, add grated carrots or diced bell peppers for extra color and texture in your spicy slaw.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap the bavette steak for chicken or portobello mushrooms, or try sweet potatoes instead of Maris Piper for a different flair.
Perfect your Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw with these helpful tips!
Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the Cajun potatoes?
Absolutely! For this recipe, Maris Piper potatoes are ideal due to their crispiness when roasted. Look for firm potatoes without any dark spots or signs of sprouting. If you don’t have Maris Piper, feel free to substitute with Yukon Gold or Russets; just remember to cut them into 1.5cm chunks for even cooking.
How should I store leftovers of the smoky steak and Cajun potatoes?
Very! Leftover smoky steak and Cajun potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, taking care to not overcook, as this will help retain the texture and flavor. If you notice the potatoes losing their crispness, a quick roast in the oven can bring them back to life!
Can I freeze the smoky steak and Cajun potatoes?
Certainly! Both the steak and potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the cooked steak to cool completely first. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Do the same for the potatoes. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delicious crunch.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the slaw?
Yes, enjoying a milder slaw is very easy! If you’re looking to tone down the heat, simply reduce the amount of chipotle chili paste you add. You might want to start with one or two teaspoons and adjust according to your taste. Alternatively, consider mixing in some diced fresh tomatoes or cucumber for added crunch and freshness which naturally mellow the spice.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, this dish can easily accommodate various needs. The bavette steak can be swapped for chicken, or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of the mayonnaise in the slaw if you’re avoiding dairy; you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo as alternatives. Always check your Cajun seasoning to ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary.
What if my steak is tough after cooking?
That can happen sometimes, but don’t worry! To ensure tenderness, make sure your steak is at room temperature before cooking and utilize high heat to create a good sear. If it still turns out tough, consider slicing the steak against the grain. This technique helps break up the muscle fibers, giving you a juicier, more tender bite.
Smoky Steak with Cajun Potatoes & Spicy Slaw for Two Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan/gas mark 7). Boil salted water in a large pan, add potatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and let steam.
- Toss potatoes with Cajun seasoning, half the olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Prepare slaw by mixing shredded red cabbage, sliced red onion, mayonnaise, soured cream, and chipotle chili paste. Set aside.
- Rub the bavette steak with remaining olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Heat griddle pan, cook steak for 2 minutes on one side, flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve sliced steak with crispy roasted potatoes garnished with coriander and spicy slaw on the side.