If you’re looking for a quick and mouthwatering meal that feels like a gourmet treat, then let me introduce you to my air fryer garlic butter steak bites! Seriously, these tender morsels of steak are cooked to perfection in minutes, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer. The garlic butter adds a rich, savory flavor that will have you swooning with every bite. I love making these for a weeknight dinner or even when I have friends over—they’re so easy and always impress! Plus, they’re a great way to satisfy that steak craving without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again! So, let’s dive in and make some steak bites that’ll knock your socks off!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound steak, cut into bite-sized pieces: I usually go for sirloin or ribeye because they’re juicy and flavorful, but feel free to use your favorite cut!
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is what makes the garlic butter sauce rich and delectable. You can’t go wrong with a little extra butter, right?
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key here! It brings that aromatic kick that pairs so beautifully with the steak.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip this step!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a dash of black pepper adds a nice touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: This is for the finishing touch! It adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
How to Prepare *Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites*
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, let’s get that air fryer warmed up! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it helps the steak bites cook evenly and gives them that delightful crispy exterior. Just a few minutes in the air fryer while you prep the rest of the ingredients, and you’re golden!
Step 2: Season the Steak Bites
Now, grab that bowl with your bite-sized steak pieces. Sprinkle in the teaspoon of salt and the half teaspoon of black pepper. Give it a good toss to coat all the steak bites evenly. This simple seasoning is going to elevate the flavors, so make sure every piece gets some love!
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter
It’s time to bring on the flavor! Melt the four tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add your minced garlic. Now, here’s the trick: cook it just until it’s fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it, though; burnt garlic can ruin everything! You want that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Step 4: Combine and Coat the Steak Bites
Once your garlic butter is ready, pour it over the seasoned steak bites. Give it a good stir until all those tasty pieces are coated in that rich garlic butter goodness. The steak should be glistening! This is where the magic really starts to happen.
Step 5: Air Fry the Steak Bites
Now, carefully place the seasoned steak bites into the air fryer basket in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Air fry them for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they get that perfect crispy texture on all sides. Trust me, the smell will be irresistible!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once they’re done, take the steak bites out and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color. Serve them up hot, and don’t forget to have your favorite dipping sauce on the side—think ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha! Enjoy every savory bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory flavor that elevates simple steak bites to something truly special.
- Healthy Indulgence: These steak bites are packed with protein while being low in carbs, making them a guilt-free option for any meal.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the seasonings or serve them with different dipping sauces to suit your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these steak bites are sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess, so you can enjoy your meal and relax without worrying about a pile of dirty dishes afterward!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for my *air fryer garlic butter steak bites*! Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use. But here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Pretty fantastic, right? These steak bites are not only delicious but also pack a protein punch, making them a great choice for a hearty meal without the extra carbs. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something tasty and nutritious!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect *air fryer garlic butter steak bites* is all about a few key tips that I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, these will help you elevate your dish to a whole new level!
- Choose the Right Cut: While I love using sirloin or ribeye for their tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with different cuts like flank or tenderloin. Just remember, leaner cuts might need a little less cooking time.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Everyone has their own preference for steak doneness. If you like it medium-rare, aim for around 8 minutes. For medium, stick closer to 10 minutes. If you’re unsure, it’s better to check a minute or two early—it’s easier to add time than to fix overcooked steak!
- Let It Rest: After air frying, let the steak bites sit for a minute before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more tender and flavorful!
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices! A sprinkle of paprika or some chili flakes can add a nice kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, avoid pre-minced garlic and opt for the real deal—it’s worth it!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making steak bites that impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of steak for these bites?
Absolutely! While I often use sirloin or ribeye, you can experiment with any cut you like, such as flank or tenderloin. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different cuts may require slight adjustments.
How do I know when the steak bites are done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for about 130°F (54°C), and for medium, look for around 140°F (60°C). Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so it’s okay to pull them out a little early!
What dipping sauces pair well with these steak bites?
Oh, the options are endless! I love serving them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha for a kick. You can also try a classic chimichurri sauce for a fresh and zesty flavor!
Can I make these steak bites ahead of time?
While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the steak bites and season them earlier in the day and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the air fryer! This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
Are these steak bites suitable for meal prep?
Yes, definitely! They’re perfect for meal prep. Just store the cooked steak bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or a skillet to keep them nice and juicy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these delicious *air fryer garlic butter steak bites* and have some leftovers? No worries! Storing them properly will keep them tasting fantastic. First, let the steak bites cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to label it with the date so you know when to enjoy them!
When it’s time to dig in again, reheating is key to keeping that great flavor and texture. The best method? Pop them back in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This way, they’ll crisp up nicely again! If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also use a skillet over medium heat—just a minute or two on each side should do the trick.
Oh, and avoid using the microwave if you can—while it’s quick, it tends to make steak chewy and less appealing. Trust me, you want to savor every bite of these flavorful steak bites, so reheating with care makes all the difference. Enjoy round two of your tasty creation!
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Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites: 5 Star Flavor Melt
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender steak bites cooked in garlic butter using an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine steak bites with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a skillet and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.
- Pour garlic butter over the steak bites and mix well.
- Place steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time for desired doneness.
- Use any steak cut you prefer.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer garlic butter steak bites