Ingredients

For the steak bites

1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but great)

For the garlic butter

4 tbsp unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

1 tsp lemon juice (optional, brightens the flavor)

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.

Season steak bites: Pat steak dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Air fry: Place steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook at 400°F for 6–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

6 minutes: medium-rare (depending on air fryer + steak size)
7–8 minutes: medium
9 minutes: medium-well

Make garlic butter: While steak cooks, melt butter in a skillet or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in garlic and cook 30–60 seconds just until fragrant (don’t brown). Mix in parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using.

Toss & serve: Add hot steak bites to a bowl and pour garlic butter over top. Toss well. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Cooking Tips

Dry the steak well before seasoning—this helps it sear instead of steam.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches for the best browning.
Cut evenly so everything finishes at the same time.
Use a thermometer for perfect doneness:
- 130–135°F (medium-rare), 140–145°F (medium), 150–155°F (medium-well)
Rest 2 minutes after cooking before tossing (still hot, but juicier).
Want more “crust”? Lightly spray the basket and steak with avocado oil spray before cooking.

Variations

Spicy Cajun: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning + add extra red pepper flakes.
Asian-style: Toss cooked bites with soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and a drizzle of honey; top with scallions.
Steakhouse mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms in butter and add them to the garlic butter toss.
Balsamic glaze: Finish with a small drizzle of balsamic reduction for sweet-tangy flavor.
Lemon herb: Add extra lemon zest + thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter.
Low-fat option: Use 2 tbsp butter + a splash of beef broth and extra herbs.

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 34g