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Crispy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter

air fryer steak bites - featured image

These crispy air fryer steak bites are juicy, golden-brown, and finished with a punchy garlic butter. Quick to make, they’re perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or as a hearty appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
  • Extra chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels and transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss until evenly coated. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Arrange steak cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
  5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For medium-rare, cook for 8 minutes; for medium, cook closer to 10 minutes. Edges should be crispy and centers juicy.
  6. While steak bites cook, melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Add minced garlic and gently simmer for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley and optional lemon juice.
  7. Transfer cooked steak bites to a serving bowl. Drizzle with garlic butter, sprinkle with coarse sea salt and extra parsley.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

For best results, use well-marbled steak like sirloin or ribeye. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—work in batches for maximum crispiness. Pat steak dry before seasoning for a crispy exterior. Garlic butter can be customized with herbs like rosemary or thyme. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer.

Nutrition

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