Steak doesn’t have to be fancy to taste amazing. These air fryer garlic butter steak bites are proof that big flavor can come in small, quick bites.
The tender steak bites cook in just 15 minutes in your air fryer steak, and the garlicky butter coating makes them crispy, juicy, and irresistible. It’s simple, fast, and feels like a treat every time.
What makes these bites my go-to is how versatile they are. Perfect as a main, a quick steak appetizer recipe, or even a snack, these air fryer dinner ideas disappear fast.
I love them because they’re fast, flavorful, and make me feel like I cooked something impressive, without spending forever in the kitchen.
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Ingredients
1 pound top sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 1‑inch cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or use olive oil for a fruity note)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
- Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it warm up for 3–5 minutes. This ensures that the steak bites cook evenly and get a nice golden sear. Preheating is key for that crispy outside and juicy inside.
- Place the cubed steak in a medium bowl. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss gently so each bite is coated evenly with seasoning and oil.
- Spread the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, or the bites may steam instead of searing properly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Cook the steak bites for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. The goal is to get a nice brown crust while keeping the centers tender and juicy. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
- While the steak cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped parsley and black pepper to make the flavorful sauce.
- Once the steak bites are done, transfer them to the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently so each bite is coated in buttery garlic goodness. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately for maximum flavor.
The Steak Selection Guide
Choosing the right cut of steak makes all the difference when it comes to quick-cooking bites.
Top sirloin is a great all-around option, affordable, flavorful, and tender enough to cook quickly in an air fryer or skillet. If you want something richer, ribeye delivers extra marbling and buttery flavor, while New York strip offers a firmer texture that sears beautifully.
For a leaner option, filet mignon works well, though it’s pricier. Before cooking, trim any excess fat and cut the steak into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to help them brown nicely, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
The Skillet Method
For the skillet method, start by heating a large pan over medium-high heat and adding a splash of oil, making sure it’s hot before you add the steak. Toss your seasoned steak bites into the pan in a single layer, and sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, golden crust.
Once browned, remove the steak bites to a plate while you prepare the garlic butter in the same skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter, then stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant without burning. Add the chopped parsley and a pinch of black pepper to the butter, letting the flavors meld together.
Return the steak bites to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter, coating every piece evenly. Let them rest for a minute to soak up the sauce, then serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Nutrition Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | ~30 g |
| Fat | ~32 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~16 g |
| Sodium | ~420 mg |
| Iron | ~2.8 mg |
| Vitamin A | ~400 IU |
This makes the steak bites protein‑forward and satisfying, especially when paired with vegetables or whole grains for balance.
Creative Ways to Serve
These steak bites are incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try serving them in creative ways that turn a simple dish into a full experience:
Plating and Pairing Ideas
- Main Course Meal: Place over creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or garlic rice.
- Salad Upgrade: Toss with fresh greens and vinaigrette for a hearty steak salad.
- Taco Twist: Wrap in warm tortillas with sautéed peppers and onions.
- On Toast Points: Use as a savory appetizer with crostini or bruschetta.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for color contrast.
- Drizzle extra garlic butter on top right before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Flavor Boosters to Try
Citrus Twist
Even rich, buttery steak bites can benefit from a burst of brightness. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the bites right before serving lifts the flavors, cutting through the richness and adding a subtle, refreshing tang.
Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a touch of heat, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne while cooking the garlic butter. The gentle spice doesn’t overpower the steak but gives it a warming, savory depth that keeps each bite exciting.
Herb Infusion
Adding herbs like thyme alongside the parsley introduces a fragrant layer that enhances the garlicky butter sauce. You can experiment with rosemary, oregano, or tarragon as well, these herbs make the bites smell incredible and give every morsel a sophisticated, aromatic flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Before Cooking
- You can cut and season the steak a few hours ahead and refrigerate, just keep it covered.
- Garlic butter sauce can be mixed in advance and warmed when ready to serve.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool the steak bites completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer for best texture (microwave works too if you’re short on time).
Freezing Tip
- For longer storage, freeze cooked steak bites in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips from the Kitchen
Room Temperature Steak: Let the cut come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps even cooking and better searing.
Dry the Meat: Patting the steak dry before seasoning ensures a crispier exterior.
Don’t Crowd the Basket: Especially in an air fryer, space matters—overcrowding leads to steaming instead of browning.
Thermometer Timing: For the perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer:
- Rare: ~125°F
- Medium‑rare: ~135°F
- Medium: ~145°F
- Medium‑well: ~150°F
Rest Before Serving: Allowing the steak bites a minute or two to rest helps redistribute the juices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I make these bites extra tender?
A: Let the steak come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking, pat it dry, and don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer. You can also lightly marinate the cubes for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Q: What sides go best with steak bites?
A: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic rice, or even as a topping for salads or tacos. They’re versatile and pair well with almost any simple side dish.
Q: Can I cook these in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Yes. Preheat the oven to 425°F, spread steak cubes on a lined baking sheet, and roast for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked to your preferred doneness.
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Course: Recipes, Appetizers3
servings10
minutes8
minutes18
minutesIngredients
1 lb top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup unsalted butter
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it heat up for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the steak bites cook evenly and get a nice golden crust. A properly heated air fryer helps lock in the juices while creating a crispy exterior.
- Place the cubed steak in a medium bowl. Drizzle with oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to make sure each piece is coated evenly, which helps the steak brown and enhances its natural flavor.
- Spread the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through so all sides develop a rich, golden brown sear.
- While the steak cooks, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, stirring continuously. Mix in chopped parsley and a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
- Once the steak bites are cooked, transfer them to the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired, for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Make sure all steak cubes are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking, so every bite is tender and perfectly seared.
- Before seasoning, pat the steak dry with a paper towel. This small step helps create a crispy exterior instead of steaming the meat.
- Serve over rice or with roasted veggies for a complete dinner, or enjoy them solo as a protein-packed snack.
- Let the steak bites rest for a minute after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping them moist and flavorful.
