Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than these air-fried steak bites with garlic butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe combines tender flank steak with a rich garlic butter sauce that will elevate your dining experience. The use of an air fryer ensures that the steak bites are cooked to perfection while remaining juicy and flavorful.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon steak seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon onion powder
*For Garlic Butter:*
4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried chives
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed steak with olive oil, steak seasoning, red pepper flakes, and onion powder. Toss until the steak pieces are evenly coated.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
4. While the steak is cooking, prepare the garlic butter by whipping together the softened butter, garlic powder, and dried chives until smooth.
5. Serve the cooked steak bites warm with a dollop of garlic butter on the side for dipping.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed steak with olive oil, steak seasoning, red pepper flakes, and onion powder. Toss until the steak pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Step 3: Cook the Steak Bites
Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the steak reaches your desired doneness.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the steak is cooking, prepare the garlic butter by whipping together the softened butter, garlic powder, and dried chives until smooth.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the cooked steak bites warm with a dollop of garlic butter on the side for dipping.
Notes
Note 1: Steak Doneness
Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for steak doneness, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Note 2: Garlic Butter Variations
Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the garlic butter for additional flavor, such as parsley or paprika.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
These steak bites are excellent as an appetizer or served over a salad for a full meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Steak
To enhance flavor, marinate the cubed flank steak with olive oil, steak seasoning, red pepper flakes, and onion powder for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Always preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking. Setting it to 400°F (200°C) prepares the appliance to create a perfect sear on the steak.
Cooking in Batches
If making a larger quantity, cook the steak bites in batches to maintain a single layer in the air fryer, ensuring they cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness.
Checking Doneness
To achieve your desired level of doneness, check the steak bites around the halfway mark and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Use a meat thermometer for precision if needed.
Preparing Garlic Butter
Combine softened butter, garlic powder, and dried chives in a bowl, whipping them together until smooth creates a delicious dipping sauce for the steak.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, other cuts like sirloin or ribeye can also work well, but adjust cooking times as needed since different cuts may vary in thickness and tenderness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best results.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes, the garlic butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just let it soften at room temperature before serving.
What dipping options pair well with this dish?
Besides garlic butter, you can serve steak bites with sauces like chimichurri, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli for extra flavor.
Can I use fresh ingredients instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic and chives can be used in the garlic butter for a more vibrant flavor, but adjust the quantities to taste.
Conclusion
This recipe for air fryer steak bites is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful with the addition of garlic butter. The combination of savory seasonings and tender steak ensures a delightful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main meal.
Steak Tacos
Utilize the seasoned steak bites in soft or hard taco shells with lettuce, salsa, and cheese for a delicious taco night.
Steak Stir-Fry
Combine the cooked steak bites with mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a tasty stir-fry meal. Serve over rice or noodles.
Steak Salad
Top a fresh garden salad with the steak bites, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a healthy option.
Steak Sandwiches
Place the cooked steak bites in a sandwich roll with sautéed onions and peppers. Add cheese for a hearty steak sandwich.
Steak Fried Rice
Incorporate the steak bites into fried rice along with scrambled eggs, peas, and carrots for a flavorful one-pan meal.
Steak and Potato Skewers
Thread the seasoned steak cubes and pieces of potato onto skewers, grill them, and serve with a side of garlic butter for dipping.
