I’ve always been a huge fan of quick, flavorful meals that feel indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. One of my absolute go-to dishes has become air fryer steak bites. They’re perfectly seared on the outside, juicy on the inside, and take just a fraction of the time compared to traditional pan-seared steak. Every time I make them, the aroma fills the kitchen and I can’t help sneaking a bite before they even hit the table.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can pair these steak bites with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy dipping sauce for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is entirely homemade. Using the air fryer ensures they cook evenly with minimal oil, making them both healthier and mess-free. It’s honestly become one of my favorite weeknight dinner hacks.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Steak (such as sirloin or ribeye):
Choose a tender cut like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon. The key is to pick meat with a bit of marbling, which ensures juiciness and flavor. Trim excess fat if needed, and cut it into even bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking in the air fryer.
Olive Oil:
A light coating of olive oil helps the steak bites sear beautifully and prevents sticking. It also adds a subtle richness and enhances the flavor of the seasoning.
Garlic Powder:
Garlic powder brings a deep, savory aroma without overpowering the natural taste of the steak. It’s a convenient way to add instant flavor evenly on all pieces.
Onion Powder:
Onion powder adds a gentle sweetness and depth, complementing the garlic and enhancing the overall taste of the meat.
Paprika:
Paprika contributes a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and gives the steak bites a rich, appetizing color. You can use smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
Salt:
A pinch of salt is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the steak. Season generously but evenly for the best results.
Black Pepper:
Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and earthy flavor that balances the richness of the beef perfectly.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
How to Make Air Fryer Steak Bites
Prep the Steak
Pat the steak pieces dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step ensures a better sear and prevents steaming. Place them in a bowl ready for seasoning.
Season the Steak
Drizzle the olive oil over the steak bites, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak bites cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
Cook the Steak Bites
Place the seasoned steak pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Adjust the time depending on your preferred level of doneness.
Rest and Serve
Remove the steak bites from the air fryer and let them rest for 2–3 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the bites tender and flavorful. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or side.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use evenly sized steak pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the steak rest before serving to maintain juiciness.
- Experiment with seasoning blends like Cajun, Italian, or Montreal steak spice.
- Use a meat thermometer if you want precise doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
FAQs
Can I use frozen steak for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed steak. Cooking from frozen may result in unevenly cooked bites.
What cut of steak works best?
Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon are ideal for bite-sized pieces.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
How do I get a crispy exterior?
Pat the steak dry, lightly coat with oil, and make sure the air fryer is preheated.
Can I add vegetables to the air fryer?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms cook well alongside steak bites.