If you’ve ever craved something restaurant-worthy but oh-so-easy to make at home, these Air Fryer Steak Bites are about to become your new obsession. Tender sirloin cubes are tossed with a bold, garlicky spice blend, air crisped to juicy perfection, and finished with a glossy butter bath and fresh parsley. It’s the kind of quick, flavor-packed recipe you’ll reach for on rushed weeknights, but it’s also impressive enough for guests. Best of all, this dish goes from fridge to table in just 20 minutes—and you won’t believe how much flavor is packed into every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Air Fryer Steak Bites is just how simple the ingredient list is, yet every item is a powerhouse for flavor and texture. With the right mix of spices, a touch of butter, and a fresh herb finish, you’ll elevate basic steak cubes to crave-worthy bites.
- Sirloin steak (1 1/2 pounds): Opt for sirloin for a tender, juicy bite—perfect for fast cooking in the air fryer.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasoning adhere to the meat and keeps the steak bites moist.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Fresh garlic infuses a deep, savory aroma that’s irresistible with steak.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and guarantees a perfectly seasoned result.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and bright contrast to the rich meat.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle smoky depth that delivers steakhouse vibes.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a touch of sweetness and more umami to round out the seasoning.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): A classic with beef, thyme adds warmth and a touch of earthiness.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Tumbled over the hot steak bites, butter gives them an irresistible silkiness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon): A bright, fresh finishing note that adds color and a pop of herbal flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Steak Bites
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before you touch a single steak cube, give your air fryer a few minutes to preheat to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step creates that perfect sear, helping to lock in juices and ensure every edge gets beautifully browned.
Step 2: Season the Steak
In a large bowl, toss your sirloin cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure each piece is coated all over—using your hands works best here for getting the spices into every nook and cranny. You’ll smell the flavor building already!
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Layer the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; if you’re making a double batch, it’s worth cooking in batches so the air can circulate and every piece caramelizes nicely.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the Air Fryer Steak Bites for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. For medium-rare, aim for the lower end of the time range; for a more well-done bite, give them up to 12 minutes. The steak should be irresistibly browned on the outside while juicy on the inside.
Step 5: Toss with Butter and Finish
As soon as the steak bites are done, slide them into a bowl and drizzle with the melted butter. Give them a gentle toss so they’re slick and glistening, then sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green and burst of freshness.
How to Serve Air Fryer Steak Bites
Garnishes
A simple flourish of chopped fresh parsley is classic, but you can also finish these steak bites with a dusting of flaky sea salt, some cracked black pepper, or even a touch of grated lemon zest for extra zing. The little finishing touches make the dish look as irresistible as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Air Fryer Steak Bites are incredibly versatile—try them piled over garlic butter rice, paired with roasted baby potatoes, alongside blistered green beans, or tucked into a fresh salad. Even a platter of crisp veggies and a creamy dipping sauce works if you’re serving as an appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the steak bites skewered with toothpicks as an easy appetizer. For an elegant dinner, fan them out over a creamy cauliflower puree or a vibrant chimichurri drizzle. Or stuff them into soft tortillas with avocado and fresh salsa for a steak taco twist—Air Fryer Steak Bites really do it all!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The steak bites keep well for up to three days—perfect for adding protein to salads or grain bowls later in the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your Air Fryer Steak Bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months—just make sure to label with the date for easy planning.
Reheating
To reheat, let thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, pop the steak bites back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F, just until warmed through; this method preserves their juicy texture and crispy edges. A quick pan sauté with a pat of butter works wonders too!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Air Fryer Steak Bites?
Absolutely! While sirloin is reliably tender and flavorful, ribeye, strip steak, or even filet mignon work beautifully. Just look for cuts with good marbling for maximum juiciness and adjust cooking times based on thickness.
Do I have to marinate the steak bites before air frying?
You don’t have to marinate for long—just tossing with the seasoning and olive oil right before cooking does the trick! But for even deeper flavor, you can let the steak cubes sit in the mixture for 30 minutes or up to a few hours in the fridge.
Can I make these Air Fryer Steak Bites keto or paleo?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free. For paleo, swap the butter for ghee or avocado oil, and you’re good to go!
How do I know when the steak bites are done?
The easiest way is to use a quick-read thermometer: 130-135°F is medium-rare, 140°F is medium. Or, just check for that gorgeous browned exterior and a tender, juicy interior—a quick taste test never hurts!
What dipping sauces go well with Air Fryer Steak Bites?
Try creamy horseradish sauce, chipotle mayo, chimichurri, or even classic steak sauce. These bites love bold flavors, so have fun experimenting!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Air Fryer Steak Bites yet, you’re honestly missing out on one of the fastest, tastiest ways to enjoy steak at home. Give them a shot this week—they’re sure to become a regular in your recipe lineup!
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Air Fryer Steak Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Steak Bites are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, these bites are seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Finish them off with a drizzle of melted butter and fresh parsley for a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
For Finishing:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Steak: In a large bowl, toss steak cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and thyme until evenly coated.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Arrange steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until steak reaches desired doneness.
- Finish: Transfer the cooked steak to a bowl and toss with melted butter. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For medium-rare steak, cook closer to 8 minutes; for medium to well-done, cook up to 12 minutes.
- Serve with roasted potatoes, vegetables, or over rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
