Juicy, tender steak bites cooked to perfection in just 20 minutes using your air fryer. Coated in a flavorful seasoning blend and tossed in rich garlic butter, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Juicy and Flavorful – The combination of seasoning and garlic butter ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Minimal Cleanup – Cooked entirely in the air fryer, keeping dishes to a minimum.
- Versatile – Serve with veggies, over rice, or as a protein-packed snack.
- Customizable – Adjust the seasoning and spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Steak Bites:
- 16 oz top sirloin filet, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ tablespoon (8g) olive oil
- ½ tablespoon (6g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1 ½ tablespoons (21g) butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon parsley flakes
Directions
Prepare the Steak
- Toss the steak bites with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat the steak pieces evenly with the seasoning mix and set aside.
Air Fry the Steak
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 4-6 minutes at 400°F, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Adjust the time based on your preferred level of doneness.
Make the Garlic Butter
- While the steak is cooking, melt the butter in a small bowl.
- Stir in garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and parsley flakes until combined.
Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked steak bites in the prepared garlic butter until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Herb Butter – Mix fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the garlic butter.
- Cheesy Steak Bites – Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the steak bites before serving.
- Asian-Inspired – Swap chili powder for soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil.
- Low-Carb Option – Serve with roasted veggies or a fresh green salad instead of rice.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent toughness.
FAQs
How do I know when the steak bites are done?
Use a meat thermometer—medium-rare is 130-135°F, medium is 140-145°F, and well-done is 160°F+.
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin work well for this recipe.
Do I have to use brown sugar?
No, you can skip it or replace it with honey or a sugar substitute for a different touch of sweetness.
What’s the best air fryer for steak bites?
Any air fryer with a temperature setting of 400°F will work. Basket-style air fryers help with even cooking.
Can I cook frozen steak bites?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes and shake the basket more frequently.
What can I serve with steak bites?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How can I make the steak bites extra crispy?
Pat the steak dry before seasoning and cook in a single layer without overcrowding.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, but fresh garlic may burn in the air fryer, so it's best to mix it into the butter after cooking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter or a drizzle of olive oil instead of regular butter.
How do I prevent the steak bites from drying out?
Avoid overcooking, and be sure to toss them in garlic butter immediately after air frying to keep them juicy.
Conclusion
Air fryer steak bites are a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a juicy steak dinner with minimal effort. With a perfect balance of seasoning and rich garlic butter, this dish is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even as a party appetizer. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!
