Craving a healthy beef recipe that’s bursting with flavor and ready in a flash? These Garlic Herb Air Fryer Steak Bites are your new weeknight hero. They’re incredibly tender, seasoned perfectly, and cook up in your air fryer with minimal effort, making healthy eating delicious and easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Sirloin Steak: You can use other tender cuts like filet mignon or even top round, cut into smaller pieces.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley and thyme are excellent. Dried herbs can be used, but use half the amount.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil is a great alternative.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness; a splash of apple cider vinegar can substitute.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 kcal (without optional lemon juice)
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, mixing bowl, tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Steak
Pat your sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Place the dried steak cubes into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
2. Season the Steak
Add olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh thyme, sea salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the steak. Toss everything together until the steak is evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a better crust on your healthy beef recipe.
4. Air Fry the Steak Bites
Arrange the seasoned steak bites in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach your desired doneness.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the steak bites from the air fryer. If desired, drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving. These delicious Garlic Herb Air Fryer Steak Bites are ready to enjoy immediately.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika will add a lovely depth.
- Onion Powder: Include 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder for extra savory notes.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of homemade garlic aioli or a simple herb yogurt dip.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Garlic Herb Air Fryer Steak Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, or gently warm them in a skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw meat in an air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely cook raw meat, including beef, in an air fryer. It cooks meat thoroughly and often more quickly than traditional methods.
What temperature should steak be cooked to?
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, target 135-140°F (57-60°C). Always use a meat thermometer.
Do you flip steak in an air fryer?
Yes, flipping the steak bites halfway through cooking helps ensure even browning and doneness.
How do you keep steak from drying out in the air fryer?
Avoid overcooking! Using a meat thermometer helps ensure you cook it to the perfect temperature without drying it out. Patting the meat dry before seasoning also helps create a better crust.
What kind of healthy beef recipes can you make in an air fryer?
Beyond steak bites, you can make air fryer meatballs, beef skewers, or even mini beef roasts.
Can you use frozen steak for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed steak for optimal results. If using frozen, thaw it completely first, then pat it dry before seasoning.
