Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

If you are craving a quick yet indulgently flavorful dish, this Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine perfectly seared, tender steak cubes bursting with garlicky butter goodness, all made effortlessly in your air fryer. The incredible combination of juicy ribeye, fragrant garlic, and a buttery parsley sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that feels straight out of a fancy steakhouse, yet you can whip it up in no time in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a special weeknight dinner or an impressive snack for guests, this recipe delivers unbeatable taste with seriously minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first joyful step to bringing this Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe to life. Each component plays its part perfectly, whether adding savory richness, a hint of smoky warmth, or fresh herbal brightness.

• 1 ½ pounds boneless ribeye steaks, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose ribeye for its marbling, which keeps the steak bites juicy and flavorful.
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and aids in a beautiful sear while air frying.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the steak.
• ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a sharp, aromatic bite that complements the meat perfectly.
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky depth without overwhelming the flavor.
• 3 Tablespoons salted butter: The star for that silky, rich garlic butter coating.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that infuses the butter sauce with irresistible aroma.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley: Brightens and balances the richness with a fresh herbal touch.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak Bites

Start by cutting your ribeye into bite-sized pieces that will cook evenly and quickly. Toss these steak bites with olive oil, kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. This simple seasoning mix brings out the best in the beef, balancing savory and smoky notes before it even hits the air fryer.

Step 2: Air Fry the Steak Bites

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the steak pieces in a single even layer inside the basket without any spray or extra oil. Air fry for 4 to 6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness—no need to flip the bites halfway. For medium-rare, aim for around 5 minutes, with an internal temperature near 135°F. The steak will carry on cooking a bit afterward, so timing is key.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While those steak bites are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet set over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Stir in the fresh parsley to infuse the butter with its bright flavor and stunning color. This sauce is where the magic happens, coating every bite with lush, garlicky richness.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Once the steak bites are done in the air fryer, immediately transfer them to the skillet with your garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together for about a minute to ensure each bite is drenched in that flavorful sauce. This final step seals in the juices and layers the dish with mouthwatering savory goodness.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that elevate the garlic butter sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top adds a nice crunch and enhances every flavor. Lemon zest also pairs wonderfully if you want a subtle citrus brightness.

Side Dishes

These juicy steak bites crave simple and complementary sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes make stellar companions. For a low-carb option, try serving alongside sautéed greens or cauliflower rice to soak up that divine butter sauce. Don’t underestimate the joy a crusty piece of bread brings to mop up every last drip.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve your Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe on a wooden board garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges—perfect for sharing. Skewer the bites on toothpicks and arrange on a platter as an irresistible appetizer. You can also pile them on a bed of creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles for a cozy, comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, make sure they cool before sealing. Reheat gently to keep the butter sauce rich and luscious.

Freezing

You can freeze these steak bites for up to three months. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents clumping and makes it easy to thaw just the amount you need.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe is in a skillet over low heat or gently in the microwave. Because of the delicate butter sauce, reheating in the air fryer is not recommended as it can dry out the steak. Warm them slowly to preserve tenderness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ribeye works wonderfully because of its marbling, but you can also try top sirloin, flank, filet, tri-tip, New York strip, or flat iron for equally tasty steak bites.

Do I need to flip the steak bites in the air fryer?

No flipping is required. The air fryer’s circulation cooks the bites evenly on all sides, making flipping unnecessary.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches about 135°F. Remember, the steak will keep cooking a bit after coming out of the air fryer.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer. Just add a pinch of salt to the garlic butter sauce to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.

Is it possible to make this recipe without an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the steak bites in a skillet over medium-high heat. Just sear them until browned and cooked to your liking, then toss in the garlic butter sauce as usual.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably satisfying about this Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe that makes it a must-try for anyone who loves steak and bold flavor. The ease of the air fryer combined with the luscious garlic butter sauce means you get a restaurant-quality dish with minimal fuss. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and savor these spectacular steak bites that everyone will be asking for again and again.

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