Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *air fryer steak bites with garlic butter*! Seriously, they’re a game changer. If you’ve ever craved that juicy, tender steak flavor, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, then this recipe is for you. It’s super simple and comes together in just about 20 minutes! Plus, the air fryer gives those steak bites a delightful crispy outside while keeping the inside perfectly tender. And the garlic butter? Wow! It just elevates everything with its rich, savory goodness.
What I love most about this dish is how it brings my family together. On busy weeknights, I can whip these up in no time, and they always vanish from the table in seconds! We love tossing them with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. It’s such a satisfying meal, and the best part? Everyone can customize their bites with that luscious garlic butter drizzle. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound steak: I usually go for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps the seasonings stick. You can use extra virgin for more flavor!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must here! It infuses the steak with that irresistible aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: I like using unsalted butter to control the saltiness. It really takes the garlic butter to the next level.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A good pinch of each will enhance all the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness; it’s the perfect finishing touch.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter Recipe
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheating to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your steak bites start cooking immediately when they hit the basket, giving them that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Prepare the Steak Bites
Now, grab your bowl and toss in those delicious bite-sized steak pieces. Drizzle in the olive oil, and sprinkle a good pinch of salt and pepper over everything. Use your hands (or a spoon, if you prefer) to mix it all together until the steak is evenly coated. You want every piece to soak up that flavor. It’s simple, but oh-so-important for that tasty result!
Add Garlic and Combine
Next up, it’s time to add that minced garlic! Sprinkle it over the steak mixture and give it another good stir. Make sure the garlic is evenly distributed; this way, every bite is packed with that aromatic goodness. I can already smell the deliciousness coming together!
Air Frying the Steak Bites
Alright, it’s time to cook! Place the steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer—this helps them cook evenly and get that lovely crisp. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, but don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through! This little shake is key to ensuring all sides get that beautiful golden brown. You want them to be cooked to your desired doneness, so feel free to peek at them during the last couple of minutes.
Making the Garlic Butter
While those steak bites are sizzling away, let’s whip up the garlic butter! In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it’s melted, remove it from the heat and stir in any leftover minced garlic you have. This step infuses the butter with even more flavor, and you’ll want to drizzle it on top of those steak bites for sure!
Combine and Serve
Once your steak bites are perfectly cooked, it’s time to bring it all together. Drizzle that luscious garlic butter all over the steak bites and give them a gentle toss to coat everything evenly. Now, plate them up and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that gorgeous pop of color. And just like that, you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and perfectly cooked steak bites creates a mouthwatering experience that’ll keep you coming back for more.
- Healthy Option: These steak bites are not only delicious but also low in carbs and high in protein, making them a fantastic choice for a balanced meal.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already, making it super easy to whip up on a whim!
- Customizable: Pair these bites with your favorite sides or add in different spices to suit your taste. The options are endless!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love these juicy steak bites. They’re fun to eat and perfect for sharing!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your air fryer steak bites turn out absolutely perfect! I’ve got some pro tips that’ll help you nail that texture and flavor every single time.
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, go for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. They cook quickly and stay juicy. Avoid tougher cuts as they might not yield the same tender bite.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to place the steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer. If they’re piled on top of each other, they won’t crisp up properly, and we definitely want that delicious crunch!
- Check for Doneness: Everyone’s taste is different, so if you’re unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer! Aim for about 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Just remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out.
- Rest the Steak: After cooking, let your steak bites rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to play around with spices! Adding a pinch of paprika or some fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up some fantastic steak bites that your family will rave about. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these amazing air fryer steak bites, and now you have some leftovers? No worries! Storing them properly will keep that deliciousness intact for another meal. Here’s what I do:
- Storing Leftovers: Let the steak bites cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them covered; we don’t want them drying out!
- Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This method will keep them crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. You could also use a skillet over medium heat if you prefer. Just toss them around a bit to warm them evenly.
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too! Just pop them on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they might get tough!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your steak bites again without sacrificing that amazing flavor and texture. Happy munching!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note to keep in mind: the nutritional information provided for these air fryer steak bites is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. I always recommend checking the labels of your products for the most accurate information. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying what you love, so don’t stress too much over the numbers! Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
While fresh steak is always best for that melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can use frozen steak if you thaw it completely first. Just make sure to pat it dry before seasoning for the best results!
What other seasonings can I add to the steak bites?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can try adding some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, or even a dash of Italian seasoning for a herbal twist. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite flavor combo!
How do I know when my steak bites are done cooking?
A meat thermometer is your best friend here! Aim for about 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. If you prefer them more well-done, just keep cooking until they reach your desired temperature. Remember, they will continue cooking a bit once you take them out!
Can I make these steak bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the steak in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to cook them fresh for that perfect texture!
What sides pair well with air fryer steak bites?
These steak bites are super versatile! I love serving them with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. They make a delicious addition to any meal!
For more delicious recipes, check out this garlic butter recipe that can elevate many dishes!
And if you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, this chicken tetrazzini is a great option!
Lastly, for a delightful dessert to complement your meal, consider this creamy garlic parmesan pasta recipe!
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Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter: 20-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple recipe for air fryer steak bites cooked in garlic butter.
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine steak bites, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add minced garlic and stir until evenly coated.
- Place steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in any remaining garlic.
- Drizzle garlic butter over cooked steak bites and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on steak thickness.
- Serve with your choice of sides.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: air fryer steak bites, garlic butter steak bites, easy steak recipe