Name: Air Fryer Steak Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Steak (Sirloin or ribeye recommended); 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black Pepper

Okay, picture this: Is this It’s a busy weeknight, everyone is starving, and the thought of firing up the grill for steak just makes sense. What are Air Fryer Steak Bites? They’re like little nuggets of pure steak bliss, juicy on the inside, perfectly seared on top. Outside, and ready faster than you can say “takeout.” Is there a recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi? ), you *need* to try these. Isn’t it a good idea to make these as quick as possible? What are some of the best air fryer steak bites?

What is Air Fryer Steak Bites?

Think of Air Fryer Steak Bites as miniature, incredibly flavorful steak pieces cooked to perfection. In your air fryer. What’s essentially taking your favorite cut of steak, cutting it into bite-sized portions, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Is it good to fry an air fryer? The beauty of this method is that you get that gorgeous sear and juicy interior without the hassle. What is the smell of pan-frying? What’s a good way to enjoy steak every night? Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

Why do I love this recipe?

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Air Fryer Steak Bites, but here are a few of my favorites:

Flavor Explosion:The combination of simple seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper) is the best. What are the best ways to enhance the flavor of a steak? What’s that rich, savory taste with a hint of warmth?
UnbelievablyWhat are some easy recipes to make? Is it worth it to buy an air fryer? What are some good nights when you’re short on time and energy?
Budget-Friendly (Sort Of!): Okay, steak isn’t *always* the cheapest option, but buying a larger cut and cubing it yourself can be more cost-effective than buying pre-cut steak. Plus, a little steak goes a long way when it’s cut into bite-sized pieces!
Super Versatile:What are some good steak bites to serve as an appetizer? What are some good tacos to serve over rice? What are the possibilities?

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. How do you season a steak? What do you have on hand? Is it a recipe that’s forgiving and always delivers amazing results? If you liked my recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Wings, you’ll love this way more! Why do we need steak?

How to Make Air Fryer Steak Bites

Quick Overview

Making these Air Fryer Steak Bites is incredibly simple. You’ll start by cutting your steak into bite-sized pieces, then toss them with a flavorful blend of seasonings. Pop them into the air fryer for just a few minutes, and voila! Juicy, tender steak bites ready to devour. The air fryer creates a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside incredibly tender. It’s honestly the best way to cook steak bites, and once you try it, you’ll never go back!

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes. (I prefer sillotine for its flavor and tenderness, but I don’t like it.) Can you use ribeye or New York strip?
1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil with a high smoke point)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder. 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1
1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
12 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon
14 teaspoon black pepper. 1 ts
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)
Garlic Butter Sauce: What are some

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that nice sear on the steak bites. While it’s preheating, lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. I always do this when working with steak, even in the air fryer.

Step 2: Cut the Steak

With a sharp knife, cut the steak into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them as uniform in size as possible so that they cook evenly. Nobody wants pieces that are well done while others are raw! I always trim off any excess fat from the steak too.

Step 3: Season the Steak Bites

In a medium bowl, combine the steak cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning. Make sure every single piece gets touched by those spices!

Step 4: Air Fry the Steak Bites

Place steak bites in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not over-crowd the basket, as this will prevent them from browning properly. Is it worth it to cook them in batches?

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the steak bites are cooked to your liking. What is the desired level of doneness? For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). I always use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked perfectly. The visual cue is a nice sear on the outside!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the steak bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier steak bites. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Or, serve with garlic butter sauce.

What is the best way to serve it?

Air Fryer Steak Bites are so versatile that you can serve them with just about anything! What are some of my favorite pairings?

As an Appetizer: What Serve them with toothpicks and a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like a creamy horseradish sauce, a tangy chimichurri, or even just a simple garlic aioli.
In Salads:Add them to a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers and vinaigrette dressing. What are some of the best protein-packed meals?
In Tacos:Use them as the filling for steak tacos with your favorite toppings, like salsa, guacamole and sour cream. What is the difference between cream and cheese?
Over Mashed Potatoes or Rice?Serve them over mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

My family loves when I serve these with a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. It’s a complete and balanced meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Sometimes I even make a big batch of these on Sunday and use them in salads and tacos throughout the week. It’s a total lifesaver!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Steak Bites

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the best Air Fryer Steak Bites:

Choose the Right Cut of Steak: While sirloin is my go-to, you can also use ribeye, New York strip, or even tenderloin. Just be sure to choose a cut that’s relatively tender and has good marbling for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: This is crucial for getting that perfect sear. If you overcrowd the basket, the steak bites will steam instead of brown. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the steak bites cook evenly and get that beautiful sear.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure that the steak bites are cooked to your desired level of doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a steak bite to check the internal temperature.
Don’t Overcook Them: Steak bites cook quickly in the air fryer, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them and avoid overcooking them. Overcooked steak bites will be tough and dry.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the steak bites generously. The seasoning is what gives them their flavor!

I’ve tested this recipe countless times and found that these tips really make a difference. Trust me, follow these and you’ll have perfect Air Fryer Steak Bites every time!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Air Fryer Steak Bites (which is rare at my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave these sitting out for more than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are actually great cold, in a salad the next day.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the steak bites. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, there are a few options:

Air Fryer: Reheat the steak bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, until heated through. This is my preferred method, as it helps to restore some of the crispness.
Microwave: Reheat the steak bites in the microwave on medium power until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough.
Skillet: Reheat the steak bites in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil or butter. This is a good option if you want to add a little extra flavor.

I typically reheat the steak bites in the air fryer. They come out almost as good as new!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While I prefer sirloin for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use ribeye, New York strip, or even tenderloin. Just be sure to choose a cut that’s relatively tender and has good marbling.

Do I need to marinate the steak before air frying?

Marinating is optional, but it can definitely add extra flavor and tenderness to the steak bites. If you want to marinate them, I recommend doing so for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Can I use frozen steak?

I don’t recommend using frozen steak for this recipe, as it will release a lot of moisture and prevent the steak bites from browning properly. If you must use frozen steak, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

How can I make these spicier?

If you want to add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cooked steak bites.

Can I cook these in a regular oven?

Yes, you can cook these in a regular oven, but they won’t get as crispy as they do in the air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the steak bites on a baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Steak Bites have become a staple in our house, and I know they’ll become one in yours too! They’re quick, easy, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The best part? They’re so versatile that you can serve them with just about anything. If you’re looking for other easy and delicious air fryer recipes, be sure to check out my Air Fryer Chicken Wings and Air Fryer Salmon. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your Air Fryer Steak Bites turn out! Please feel free to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe. I love hearing from you!

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