Air Fryer Steak Bites

Air fryer steak bites are the answer for when you want juicy steak in minutes with minimal mess. These little bites cook up perfectly tender every time and get tossed in a quick homemade garlic butter for major flavor. They are my go to for busy weeknights or anytime steakhouse cravings hit but I want something fuss free at home.

Ingredients

• Top Sirloin Filet: choosing a lean cut keeps these bites tender without too much grease look for a nicely marbled steak for best flavor
• Olive Oil: just enough to help spices stick and add richness a fresh bottle has better taste
• Brown Sugar: adds a gentle sweetness that balances savory flavors choose soft light brown sugar for easy mixing
• Kosher Salt: larger grains help season the steak properly always check freshness of your salt
• Black Pepper: freshly cracked gives the best bite and aroma
• Chili Powder: brings mild warmth and color use a good quality blend for the richest taste
• Garlic Powder: infuses deep garlicky notes without burning pick powder that smells fresh
• Onion Powder: layers in subtle savoriness stores well in a cool dry place
• Butter: real butter melts into a rich coating for finishing if possible pick a high quality unsalted brand
• Red Pepper Flakes: add quick heat if you like a little kick
• Parsley Flakes: for fresh color and a light herbal finish use dried or fresh minced parsley depending what you have

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Steak Bites:

Cut your top sirloin into even bite sized pieces about one inch across which ensures even cooking then pat them dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick.

Season the Steak:

In a large bowl drizzle steak pieces with olive oil tossing to coat everything evenly in a light sheen then mix together the brown sugar salt pepper chili powder garlic powder and onion powder in a separate bowl and sprinkle this mixture all over the steak tossing well to get every piece coated.

Preheat Your Air Fryer:

Let your air fryer heat at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes which gives you a nice hot start for searing the outside of the steak bites quickly.

Cook the Steak Bites:

Arrange steak pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket with a bit of space around each piece this helps with browning air fry for four to six minutes at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and shake or turn the bites halfway through check for doneness to get your preferred level from rare to well done.

Mix the Garlic Butter:

While steak cooks melt the butter on the stove or microwave then stir in garlic powder red pepper flakes and parsley for a burst of flavor.

Toss and Serve:

Once steak bites are done transfer immediately to a large clean bowl pour the garlic butter over top and toss so every piece gets deliciously coated serve hot and enjoy.

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My favorite part is always sneaking a buttery steak bite right from the bowl while tossing them. The kitchen smells like a steakhouse and reminds me of family gatherings when we would crowd around the table sharing steak tips straight from the pan.

Storage Tips

Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them juicy reheat gently in the air fryer at three fifty degrees for a couple minutes or in a skillet over medium with a pat of butter stirred in.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap top sirloin for flank steak round steak or skirt steak but note they vary in fat content and tenderness. If using skirt or flank slice thin across the grain. If out of parsley flakes try chopped chives or fresh parsley for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these steak bites over steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They are also perfect for appetizers with toothpicks or piled into warm tortillas for quick street style tacos.

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Pick Your Perfect Steak

Top sirloin is lean but flavorful which means little trimming is needed and it stays juicy with the right cook time. Avoid cuts with too much gristle and stick with even sized pieces so everything cooks at the same speed.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What cuts of beef can I use for these steak bites?

Top sirloin is recommended for its leanness and tenderness, but round steak, flank steak, or skirt steak are also good options. Thinner cuts may cook more quickly, so watch closely as they air fry.

→ How do I achieve a perfect sear using an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer for at least five minutes, and don't overcrowd the basket. High heat helps develop a flavorful outer crust while keeping the inside juicy.

→ Can I customize the steak seasoning?

Absolutely! Adjust the level of spice by varying the chili powder or add other favorite dried herbs. You can also omit sugar for a less caramelized exterior.

→ What's the best way to coat steak bites with garlic butter?

After air frying, immediately toss the warm steak bites in melted garlic butter and herbs so the flavors can soak into the meat.

→ Could I use this method with chicken or vegetables?

Yes, the air fry and garlic butter technique works well with chicken pieces or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and peppers.