21-Minute Irresistible Air Fryer Steak Bites Recipe (Garlic Butter, Perfect Every Time)
This air fryer steak bites recipe is one of those reliable wins you can lean on when you want something hearty but don’t want a messy stovetop cleanup. If you keep two things in mind, give the steak space in the basket and pull it at the doneness you actually enjoy, you’ll get juicy centers with those browned, savory edges that make steak bites so addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Pat the steak dry and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the steak cubes to a mixing bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Arrange the steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed so they do not overlap.
- Air fry at 400°F for 6 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the steak reaches your preferred doneness.
- While the steak cooks, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Remove the steak bites from the air fryer and let them rest for 3 minutes.
- Toss the hot steak bites with the garlic butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, or the steak bites will steam instead of getting browned edges.
Cut the steak into even 1-inch pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Pat the steak dry before seasoning to help it brown better in the air fryer.
Cook in batches if needed for the best texture and color.
Air fryer steak bites cook quickly, so start checking around the 6-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Let the steak rest for 3 minutes after cooking to help keep the juices inside.
Toss the steak bites with garlic butter after cooking for the richest flavor and a glossy finish.
Serve them right away, because steak bites are most tender and juicy when hot and freshly cooked.
