Description
You know those moments when you’re craving a really good steak but your wallet says “absolutely not”? Or when you want something fancy for dinner but only have like 20 minutes? Meet your new obsession: Air Fryer Steak Bites. These little nuggets of heaven are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with garlic butter goodness that’ll make you forget you’re not at a $50-a-plate restaurant. I’m talking perfectly seared, bite-sized pieces of steak that cook in literally 8 minutes. My meat-and-potatoes dad tried these and immediately asked for the recipe. That’s when you know you’ve got a winner.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes (ribeye works too if you’re feeling bougie)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
For the Garlic Butter Finish:
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp thyme (dried is fine)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Squeeze of lemon juice
For Serving:
- Toothpicks (for that fancy appetizer vibe)
- More fresh herbs
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
Pat the steak cubes completely dry with paper towels. This is CRUCIAL for getting that perfect sear.
In a large bowl, toss the steak with olive oil and all the seasonings until every piece is coated.
Let it sit for 10 minutes while your air fryer preheats. This isn’t just busy work — it helps the flavors sink in.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-4 minutes.
Don’t skip this step — a hot air fryer means better searing.
Working in batches (don’t overcrowd!), place steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For medium-rare, aim for 6 minutes. For medium, go 7-8 minutes.
Check one piece if you’re nervous — it should have a gorgeous golden crust but still be pink in the center.
While the steak rests, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
Toss the hot steak bites in this magical mixture immediately after they come out of the air fryer.
Transfer to serving bowls, drizzle any leftover garlic butter on top.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a pinch of flaky salt.
Serve with toothpicks and watch people lose their minds.
Notes
Perfect over mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice.
Toss with pasta and some of that garlic butter for an instant dinner.
Serve as appetizers with a creamy horseradish dip.
Add to salads for an instant protein boost.
Great in breakfast hash with eggs and potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Protein: ~25g