Air Fryer Steak Bites: Juicy, Flavorful, and Quick

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer steak bites are a game-changer for steak lovers who crave a quick, flavorful, and juicy bite without the hassle of grilling or pan-searing. With a crispy seared exterior and a tender, juicy interior, these bite-sized pieces of steak cook in under 10 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even as a protein-packed snack.

Using the air fryer ensures even cooking and minimizes oil usage while delivering restaurant-quality results. Plus, with customizable seasoning options, you can make them spicy, garlicky, or herb-infused to match your preferences.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Cut the steak into evenly sized 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the steak cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps achieve a nice sear on the steak.

Step 3: Cook the Steak Bites

1. Arrange the steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook in batches if needed.
2. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
3. For medium-rare steak, cook for about 6 minutes; for medium, 7-8 minutes. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness.

Step 4: Add Butter and Serve

1. Once cooked, transfer the steak bites to a bowl and drizzle with melted butter and Worcestershire sauce. Toss to coat.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Recipe Variations

• Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Add minced garlic to the melted butter before tossing with the steak.
• Spicy Cajun Steak Bites: Use Cajun seasoning instead of the listed spices.
• Asian-Inspired Steak Bites: Toss with soy sauce and sesame oil instead of Worcestershire sauce.
• Lemon Herb Steak Bites: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped rosemary or thyme.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short 20-second bursts to prevent overcooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen steak?

Yes, but thaw the steak completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning absorption.

What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip work best due to their balance of tenderness and flavor.

Can I marinate the steak before air frying?

Absolutely! Marinate for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor, but pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What air fryer temperature should I use?

400°F (200°C) is ideal for getting a perfect sear while keeping the steak juicy inside.

How do I prevent the steak bites from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and toss them in butter or a sauce after cooking to maintain juiciness.

Can I cook different doneness levels in one batch?

No, for even doneness, cook all steak bites for the same amount of time. Adjust in separate batches if needed.

Do I need to flip the steak bites?

Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures even browning, so flipping isn’t necessary.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes! Avocado oil or melted butter can be used instead of olive oil.

What can I serve with air fryer steak bites?

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a side salad, or even dipping sauces like garlic aioli.

Can I make this keto-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

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Conclusion

Air fryer steak bites are the perfect solution for a quick, juicy, and flavorful steak experience without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re meal prepping, making an easy dinner, or just craving a protein-packed snack, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes. With endless seasoning variations, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy steakhouse-quality bites right from your air fryer!

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