Description
Cowboy Butter Steak Bites are juicy, seared chunks of steak drenched in a bold, garlicky cowboy butter sauce, ready in just 11 minutes. Whether made in a skillet or air fryer, this quick weeknight recipe delivers steakhouse-level flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for dinners, party platters, or protein-packed bowls, it’s a fast, indulgent meal that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
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1 lb (450 g) steak, cut into 1-inch pieces (top sirloin or ribeye recommended)
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1 recipe cowboy butter, divided
(Note: Cowboy butter typically includes softened butter, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.)
Instructions
Skillet Method:
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Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
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Place steak bites in a single layer—don’t overcrowd. Cook for 1½–2 minutes undisturbed.
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Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes to desired doneness.
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Lower heat to medium, add half the cowboy butter, and toss to coat. Cook 1 more minute.
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Melt remaining cowboy butter and drizzle over steak or serve it on the side as dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Method:
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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Season steak bites with salt and pepper, and lightly coat with olive oil.
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Arrange steak in a single layer. Cook for 4–6 minutes, shaking halfway through.
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Toss cooked steak bites with warm cowboy butter and serve with extra sauce.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches for proper browning.
Rest steak bites briefly after cooking for juicier results.
Spice up your cowboy butter with cayenne or extra garlic.
Cowboy butter keeps for 5 days in the fridge or can be frozen.
Not ideal for freezing the steak, as texture may change post-thaw.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Plats
- Method: Skillet / Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American