Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter – Juicy, Flavorful & Quick

When you’re craving a hearty steak meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter is the perfect solution. This recipe gives you tender, juicy steak bites with a crispy exterior, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer in just 10 minutes. Add the rich and savory cowboy butter on top, and you’ve got a meal that’s packed with flavor.

The air fryer makes this steak bite recipe so easy—no need to fire up the grill or pan-sear. In just a few steps, you’ll have delicious steak bites that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, the cowboy butter adds a burst of creamy, garlicky goodness that pairs perfectly with the steak.

This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or even as an appetizer for your next gathering. Let’s dive into this Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter recipe!

Why Use the Air Fryer for Steak Bites?

The air fryer is the secret to achieving perfectly cooked steak bites with minimal effort. Here’s why using the air fryer works wonders for steak:

• Quick and Easy: The air fryer cuts down the cooking time significantly, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want steak without the hassle.
• Crispy Exterior, Tender Interior: The hot air circulation in the air fryer crisps up the steak bites while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
• Less Mess: No need for stovetops or grills, which means fewer dishes to clean. Just toss the steak bites into the air fryer, and you’re good to go.

With the air fryer, you get all the delicious flavor of steak, with less work and quicker results.

Ingredients for Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter

This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak or your preferred cut of steak (ribeye, flank, or tenderloin work great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

For the Cowboy Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a bit of brightness)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter

Making these Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter couldn’t be easier. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cowboy Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, and lemon juice (if using).
2. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Transfer the cowboy butter to a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Refrigerate while you prepare the steak bites. This step will allow the butter to firm up and be easier to slice when serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. Cut the sirloin steak (or your preferred cut) into bite-sized cubes, around 1 to 1.5-inch pieces.
2. In a large bowl, drizzle the steak cubes with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Season the steak bites with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.

Step 3: Air Fry the Steak Bites

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Place the seasoned steak cubes in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking. You may need to cook the steak in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Air fry the steak bites at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer your steak bites more well-done, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Once the steak bites are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and set aside.

Step 4: Serve with Cowboy Butter

1. Slice the chilled cowboy butter into small rounds and place a slice on top of each hot steak bite.
2. Allow the cowboy butter to melt over the steak, adding a rich, garlicky, herby flavor to each bite.

Serve your Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter immediately, and enjoy!

Customizing Your Air Fryer Steak Bites

This recipe is highly customizable based on your preferences. Here are a few ways to mix things up:

• Add a spice kick: If you like more heat, you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the steak seasoning for an extra punch.
• Use different cuts of steak: While sirloin works great for this recipe, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or tenderloin for a more tender or richer flavor.
• Make it low-carb: Pair the steak bites with a cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of traditional sides like mashed potatoes or rice for a low-carb option.

Why This Recipe Works

Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter is a winning recipe because of its simplicity and flavor. The air fryer makes cooking steak bites faster and easier, while the cowboy butter elevates the dish with creamy, garlicky goodness. The steak bites are juicy, perfectly seasoned, and crispy on the outside. Together, they create a mouthwatering combination that will leave everyone asking for more.

This dish is also incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a main course, an appetizer, or even as a snack for a party. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Conclusion: A Quick, Flavorful Meal You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter is the perfect dish for you. The air fryer does all the work, creating juicy, tender steak bites with a crispy exterior, while the cowboy butter adds rich, savory flavor to each bite. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in no time.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or any time you’re craving steak without all the hassle. Ready to get cooking? Fire up the air fryer and enjoy your steak bites with cowboy butter today!

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FAQs

1. Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any steak you prefer, such as ribeye, flank steak, or tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.

2. What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the steak bites in a skillet on the stove. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the steak bites for about 3-4 minutes per side until they reach your desired level of doneness.

3. How do I make the cowboy butter ahead of time?

You can prepare the cowboy butter a day or two in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it in a log shape, wrapped in parchment paper or plastic wrap. When ready to use, slice it into rounds and place on top of the steak bites.

4. Can I make this recipe with chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for steak. You can use chicken breast or chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken will take a bit longer to cook through.

5. How can I adjust the spice level?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes to the steak seasoning. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount of spice.

6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus to the air fryer along with the steak bites for a complete meal. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the veggies.

7. How do I know when the steak bites are cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be 130°F (54°C), medium should be 140°F (60°C), and well-done should be 160°F (71°C).

8. Can I freeze leftover steak bites?

Yes, you can freeze leftover steak bites. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

9. What can I serve with these steak bites?

These steak bites pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy mayo.

10. How long do the steak bites last in the fridge?

Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or on the stove to bring back the crispiness.