Juicy Air Fryer Steak Bites (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

It is 6pm and you are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast tonight. These Air Fryer Steak Bites are your new best friend.

They are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Your whole family will love every bite. You can have a hot meal ready in minutes. It is the perfect solution for a busy day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total winner for busy families. You get that steakhouse flavor without the high price. It is ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.

The air fryer creates a beautiful crust on the outside. The inside stays soft and buttery. It is a great way to serve steak to kids. They love the small, bite-sized pieces.

How It Comes Together

Making these Air Fryer Steak Bites is very simple. You just toss the meat in a quick seasoning. Then, the air fryer does all the hard work.

You do not need to stand over a hot stove. There is no messy grease splashing on your counters. It is a clean and easy way to cook. Even beginners can master this dish on the first try.

Simple Ingredients

You likely have most of these spices in your pantry already.

• 1.5 lbs Top Sirloin or Ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Pat the steak cubes dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the steak cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
4. Toss until the meat is thoroughly coated in the oil and spices.
5. Arrange the steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer.
6. Do not overcrowd the basket so the air can circulate.
7. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes.
8. Shake the basket at the 4-minute mark to ensure even browning.
9. Transfer the cooked steak to a serving bowl.
10. Drizzle with melted butter and garnish with fresh parsley.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these steak bites while they are nice and hot. They go perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted broccoli. You can also toss them over a fresh green salad.

For a fun family dinner, serve them with dipping sauces. Garlic aioli or a simple ranch are always hits. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free meal together.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, they store very well. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer. Heat at 350°F for just 2 or 3 minutes. This keeps them from getting chewy or tough. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crust.

Tips for Best Results

• Pat the meat dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Cut your steak into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
• Do not skip the preheating step for a better sear.
• Leave space between the pieces in the basket.
• Use a high-quality oil like olive or avocado oil.
• Let the meat sit at room temperature for 15 minutes first.
• For a holiday treat, serve these as easy appetizers.
• Add a squeeze of lemon at the end for brightness.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap the thyme for dried rosemary for an earthy flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use dairy-free butter to keep the recipe paleo-friendly.
• In the summer, serve these with fresh corn on the cob.

Common Questions

What cut of steak is best?

Sirloin is great for a lean and affordable option. Ribeye is perfect if you want a richer, more buttery flavor. Both work beautifully in the air fryer.

How do I know when they are done?

The steak should be golden brown on the outside. You can check one piece for your preferred level of pinkness. Most bites are perfect at the 8-minute mark.

Will kids actually eat these?

Yes, kids love the small size and the mild seasoning. It feels like a fun finger food for them. Serve with their favorite dip to make it even better.

I hope these juicy steak bites make your busy weeknights much easier. There is nothing better than a fast meal that tastes like a treat. Happy cooking!

— Lidia

Air Fryer Steak Bites

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs Top Sirloin or Ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
• Pat the steak cubes dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• In a medium bowl, combine the steak cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme, tossing until the meat is thoroughly coated.
• Arrange the steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer without overcrowding.
• Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, pausing to shake the basket at the 4-minute mark to ensure even browning.
• Transfer the cooked steak to a serving bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and garnish with fresh parsley.