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Air Fryer Steak Bites

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Cook Time 7 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds steak sirloin, ribeye, New York strip, or top loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a subtle smoky note
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Garlic Herb Butter
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, brightens the flavor
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Optional for serving:

  • Lemon wedges flaky salt, extra parsley

Instructions
 

  • Prep the steak. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture helps them brown better.
  • Season generously. In a bowl, toss steak with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
  • Preheat the air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot basket kickstarts browning.
  • Make the garlic herb butter. Mash softened butter with garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Set aside at room temp so it stays spreadable.
  • Arrange in the basket. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Spread the steak bites in a single layer with a bit of space between pieces. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 4–6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. For medium-rare, start checking at 4 minutes. For medium, go 6–7 minutes. Time can vary by air fryer and size of the cubes.
  • Toss with butter. Transfer hot steak bites to a bowl and immediately toss with the garlic herb butter so it melts and coats every piece.
  • Finish and serve. Add a squeeze of lemon if you like, sprinkle with flaky salt, and garnish with extra parsley. Serve right away.