Air Fryer Garlic Steak Bites are a quick and flavorful appetizer or main dish that combines tender pieces of steak with a savory garlic seasoning. The air fryer ensures that these steak bites are cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Follow this detailed guide to make mouthwatering steak bites that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your preferred cut)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Basting brush (for sauce)
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
- Cut the Steak: Trim any excess fat from the steak and cut it into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces.
- Season the Steak: In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Steak Bites
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the steak bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness and the size of the steak cubes.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature if desired. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C); for medium, aim for 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Season: Season the garlic butter sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice.
Step 5: Toss the Steak Bites
- Combine: Transfer the cooked steak bites to a mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the steak bites and toss until evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate: Serve the garlic steak bites immediately while they are still warm. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy these steak bites on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the steak bites in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes before air frying.
- Size: Ensure the steak cubes are of uniform size to cook evenly.
- Resting: Let the steak bites rest for a few minutes after air frying to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations
- Spicy Steak Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Steak Bites: Substitute dried oregano with dried rosemary or thyme for a different herb flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the seasoning mix for a sweet and savory combination.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve these steak bites as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers.
- Main Course: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or chimichurri.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Steak Bites are a delicious and convenient dish that brings together the rich flavors of steak and the savory essence of garlic butter. This recipe ensures perfectly cooked, juicy steak bites with a crispy exterior, all made quickly in the air fryer. Follow this detailed guide to create a delightful treat that will be a hit at any gathering or as a special weeknight dinner. Enjoy every flavorful bite!