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These Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites are perfect when you want a restaurantquality steak dinner without the hassle of grilling or panfrying. They come together quickly with minimal prep, and their tender, juicy texture is always a crowdpleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a few guests, this recipe delivers robust garlic butter flavor in every bite.
I first made these on a weeknight with little time to cook and was amazed at how tender and flavorful they turned out. Now these steak bites are a regular request at our dinner table, especially when I want something quick but impressive.
Ingredients
- Boneless ribeye steaks cut into bitesize pieces: ribeye has excellent marbling for juicy flavor you can substitute top sirloin or flat iron for a leaner or budget friendly option
- Olive oil: helps the seasonings stick and prevents the air fryer basket from sticking choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Kosher salt: essential for seasoning meat to bring out natural flavors the coarse grains dissolve well during cooking
- Fresh cracked black pepper: for a sharp peppery contrast freshly ground is always best
- Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smoky depth try Spanish paprika if you want it a little sweeter
- Salted butter: real butter is key here to create a rich garlic sauce that clings to the meat
- Fresh garlic cloves minced: fresh garlic delivers a bright and pungent punch you cannot get with jarred garlic here
- Fresh chopped parsley: optional but adds a fresh herbaceous note and a pop of color
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Start by setting your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your steak bites will start cooking immediately and get that nice sear.
- Season the Steak Bites:
- Place the bitesized ribeye pieces in a large bowl then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the kosher salt freshly ground pepper and smoked paprika over the meat. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Air Fry the Steak Bites:
- Arrange the seasoned steak bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. There is no need to spray the basket with oil as the olive oil already prevents sticking. Cook the steak bites for about 4 to 6 minutes depending on your preferred doneness. I usually cook mine for 5 minutes aiming for an internal temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit which is medium rare. Remember that meat will continue to cook a bit once removed.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- While the steak bites are in the air fryer melt the salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Combine and Toss:
- Add the cooked steak bites into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together for about a minute so the steak bites absorb the buttery garlicky goodness evenly.
- Serve Immediately:
- Transfer the steak bites to a serving dish and enjoy right away for the best flavor and texture.
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I love using fresh garlic in this recipe because it really is the star of the dish. Whenever I make it, the smell fills the kitchen and reminds me of family dinners where we laughed over good food. The buttery garlic sauce clinging to each steak bite makes every mouthful memorable.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating use a microwave or skillet rather than the air fryer to avoid melting too much butter and drying out the steak. For longer storage freeze the cooked steak bites in freezer safe bags or containers for up to three months.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have ribeye you can use top sirloin or flat iron steak for a leaner alternative. Garlic powder can be used but fresh garlic is best. For a dairy free butter substitute use plant based butter or ghee. Smoked paprika can be swapped for regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder for heat.
Serving Suggestions
These steak bites go great with mashed potatoes steamed vegetables like carrots or broccoli or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal serve alongside baked potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
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These air fryer garlic butter steak bites are quick and full of flavor making them perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use other steak cuts?
Yes, cuts like top sirloin, flank, filet, Tri-tip, NY strip, or flat iron work well and offer varied flavor and texture.
- → What seasonings pair well with steak bites?
Try Montreal Steak, Cajun, Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute, blackened, or BBQ blends for different flavor profiles.
- → How do I achieve different doneness levels?
Use a meat thermometer: rare at 120-125°F, medium rare at 125-135°F, medium at 135-140°F, medium well at 145-150°F, and well done above 150°F.
- → Can these bites be made spicy?
Yes, add cayenne pepper or enhance the butter sauce with hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Keep leftovers in the fridge up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave or skillet, avoiding the air fryer to prevent burning.
- → What side dishes complement the steak bites?
Baked or mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, broccoli, or a simple side salad make great accompaniments.