Description
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Get ready to savor the juicy, tender steak bites covered in rich garlic butter—all ready in minutes! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner without the hassle. Using the air fryer gives these bites the perfect sear and flavor, all while keeping things light and low-calorie.
650g sirloin steak, trimmed & cubed
1 tsp sweet paprika
½ tsp salt & black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
Low-calorie spray
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp salted butter, melted
1.5 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 200°C.
2. Season steak with paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and chili flakes. Spray with low-calorie spray.
3. Air fry for 6 mins, turning halfway.
4. Toss steak with garlic, butter, and parsley; air fry 1-2 more mins.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 293 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect steak bites every time.
- Prep the Steak: Pat your cubed sirloin steak completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear.
- Season Thoroughly: In a bowl, combine the paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and optional chili flakes. Add the steak cubes and toss until evenly coated on all sides.
- Preheat & Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3-5 minutes. Arrange the steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray with oil. Air fry for 6 minutes, pausing to shake the basket or turn the bites halfway through.
- Add Garlic Butter: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic. Once the initial cook time is up, transfer the steak bites to the bowl with the garlic butter and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Final Crisp: Return the coated steak bites to the air fryer basket. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes at the same temperature to crisp the edges and cook the garlic.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the steak bites, toss with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile steak bites pair wonderfully with various sides. For a low-carb meal, serve them over a crisp Caesar salad or with roasted asparagus. They are also excellent alongside creamy mashed cauliflower, crispy air-fryer potatoes, or simple steamed rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. For a hearty appetizer, skewer them or serve with toothpicks.
How-to Summary
Cube and season sirloin steak, then air fry at 200°C for 6 minutes, turning halfway. Toss the partially cooked bites in a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic, then return to the air fryer for 1-2 final minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. While sirloin is ideal for balance of flavor and tenderness, ribeye offers more richness, and tenderloin is exceptionally tender. Tougher cuts like flank will require a shorter cook time to avoid chewiness.
How do I prevent the steak bites from becoming tough?
Avoid overcooking. The 6+2 minute guideline is for 2.5cm (1-inch) cubes. Always check for doneness a minute early, as air fryer models vary. Letting the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps retain juices.
Can I make these steak bites ahead of time?
You can season the raw steak cubes up to a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. For best results, cook and serve immediately.
Is the preheating step necessary?
Yes. Preheating ensures immediate searing, which locks in juices and creates a better texture. Skipping it can lead to steaming.
Can I use frozen steak?
It’s not recommended. Frozen steak will release too much water, preventing proper browning and leading to a steamed texture. Always use thawed, patted-dry steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Basket: Overloading causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the Drying Step: Moisture on the steak’s surface is the enemy of browning. Always pat the cubes dry.
- Adding Garlic Butter Too Early: Adding the garlic at the start will cause it to burn in the high heat, creating a bitter flavor. Only add it for the final 1-2 minutes.
- Constant Checking: Resist the urge to open the air fryer frequently during the first cook, as this releases heat and disrupts the cooking process.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites are a testament to how simple ingredients and smart cooking can create a spectacular meal in minutes. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and cleanup, making it an indispensable addition to your weeknight rotation. Mastering the quick sear-and-sauce technique opens the door to endless variations, ensuring you’ll never tire of this delicious, protein-packed dish.