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These juicy steak bites cook quickly in the air fryer. They’re tender, flavorful, and simply seasoned! Ready in just 15 minutes!
Update: This recipe was originally published in 2023 and has been republished with all new photos.
The air fryer is my favorite way to make healthy entrees fast lately. Unlike most other cooking methods you need very little oil when cooking in the air fryer which means less mess and less calories.
Now let’s talk about air frying steak. To get perfectly cooked steak fast I like to cut it into small bite-sized pieces (hence the name steak bites). It will cook quickly and give you those slightly crispy edges that I love oh so much. The inside of the steak remains juicy and tender. Trust me, if the thought of cooking steak intimidates you you’re going to really love this method.
Any air fryer will work. I’ve tested this air fryer steak bites recipe with both a basket style air fryer and a tray style air fryer. Just be sure you spread the steak pieces in a single layer and you’ll be happy with your results!
Add a yummy side or two and you’ll have a quick dinner in no time! Minimal effort and short cooking time means these easy air fryer steak bites are perfect for busy weeknights!
Craving more fast air fryer recipes? Try my Air Fryer Chicken Breasts, Air Fryer Salmon, Yogurt Marinated Air Fryer Chicken, or Air Fryer Sausage and Vegetables.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Steak Bites
- Top sirloin steak, ribeye, New York strip, or fillet: Lots of different cuts of steak will work well here. Choosing one with some marbling and good fat will give you the best results.
- Oil spray or olive oil: The olive oil or oil spray helps us achieve a little char on the outside of our steak pieces. I use an avocado oil spray but use what you have on hand.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are the only seasonings you need for this simple steak recipe.
How to Make Perfect Air Fryer Steak Bites
Preheat the air fryer. Adding steak to a hot air fryer will help sear the outside. If you don’t preheat the air fryer your finished steak may be a little rubbery and it will lack that char we want.
Cut steak into bite-sized pieces that are the same size so they cook in the same amount of time. Coat the steak in a little oil and plenty of seasoning.
Spread the steak in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray with a bit of space in between each. You don’t want the steak pieces piled on top of each other because they won’t cook as evenly.
Cook and voila! You have an easy main dish everyone will love. This steak is absolutely perfect as is but you can dress it up with fresh herbs or melted butter if you’d like to be a little extra. It’s truly unnecessary though.
Can You Make These Steak Bites Without an Air Fryer?
Yes! You can make this recipe on the stovetop (although you’ll need more oil if you go this route).
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet (I use my 12″) over medium-high heat. Once oil is hot, add steak bites. If your skillet is large enough you can fit it all but you may prefer to do two batches. It’s totally up to you. Season with salt and pepper. Sear steak for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until you have some beautiful browning. Steak will cook very quickly so don’t overdo it. Once finished, remove from pan and set aside on a plate.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
You can also freeze these juicy air fryer steak bites in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Serve Air Fryer Steak Bites
Steak bites are a delicious appetizer if you serve with toothpicks. You can also offer a dip if you like. I recommend my Comeback Sauce.
Need a great low carb snack that’s high protein? Steak bites are a great way to satisfy your hunger and still stick with your nutrition goals!
I personally enjoy these steak bites most often as an entree. For a complete meal simply add a side or two to your plate. Here are some side dishes you’ll love with these seasoned steak bites:
- Garlic Green Beans
- Roasted Potato Wedges
- Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Broccoli
- Side salad with Easy Homemade Italian Dressing or Easy Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing
- Easy Seasoned Roasted Potatoes
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Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds top sirloin steak, ribeye, NY strip, or fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or use an oil spray, I use an avocado oil spray
- 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- While cutting the steak into 1-inch cubes, preheat air fryer to 400 degrees.
- Add the steak bites, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to a medium-sized bowl. Toss to coat the steak pieces in the oil and seasonings. (If using an oil spray you can spray the steak while in the bowl and stir so the pieces are coated in seasoning.)
- Spread the steak bites in the preheated air fryer. Cook for 4 to 8 minutes. Check for doneness and cook for additional time if desired. If you like your steak with pink inside you'll be happy around 4 minutes but if you want well done you'll likely end up closer to 8 minutes total. I enjoy mine at 5 minutes.Cooking time can vary based on how done you like your steak. Time also varies based on the model air fryer used and the size of the air fryer. See notes for more information.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
When you’re craving steak, but don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking or grilling-this is your recipe. So delicious, but so quick and easy.
Ok so I feel like we’re besties now or on first name basis for sure. You say I have to try a recipe and I do. Then I rant and rave about it!! Its like you’re making these fantastic, quick easy meals for me. So are we Chrisane or Ditina? But seriously, made this with garlic green beans and wow!
Haha I am making them all for you!!! Thank you so much for these kind words, Diane. I vote Ditina because that’s quite catchy. 😉 Thrilled that you enjoyed the steak bites!
Still trying to keep the kitchen cool if possible so, love using the air fryer. These were a hit with my husband so that makes it a win for me.
Thrilled that this was a win for you both! Thank you, Toni!