Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
- Cut the Steak: Trim any excess fat from the steak and cut it into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces.
- Season the Steak: In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Steak Bites
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the steak bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness and the size of the steak cubes.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature if desired. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C); for medium, aim for 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Season: Season the garlic butter sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice.
Step 5: Toss the Steak Bites
- Combine: Transfer the cooked steak bites to a mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the steak bites and toss until evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate: Serve the garlic steak bites immediately while they are still warm. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy these steak bites on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the steak bites in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes before air frying.
- Size: Ensure the steak cubes are of uniform size to cook evenly.
- Resting: Let the steak bites rest for a few minutes after air frying to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations
- Spicy Steak Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Steak Bites: Substitute dried oregano with dried rosemary or thyme for a different herb flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the seasoning mix for a sweet and savory combination.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve these steak bites as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers.
- Main Course: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or chimichurri.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Steak Bites are a delicious and convenient dish that brings together the rich flavors of steak and the savory essence of garlic butter. This recipe ensures perfectly cooked, juicy steak bites with a crispy exterior, all made quickly in the air fryer. Follow this detailed guide to create a delightful treat that will be a hit at any gathering or as a special weeknight dinner. Enjoy every flavorful bite!