Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes

A complete, gourmet-worthy meal that’s crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—all made quickly and easily in your air fryer.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 1 ½ lbs baby potatoes (red or Yukon Gold), quartered

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smokiness)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak), cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes:

• In a bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

2. Cook the Steak Bites:

• Pat the steak cubes completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear.

• Toss the steak with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.

• Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).

• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the steak is browned and cooked to your liking. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

• Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• While the steak rests, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley until well combined.

4. Combine and Serve:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked steak bites and potatoes.

• Pour the garlic butter sauce over everything and toss gently to coat.

• Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Chef's Notes & Tips

• Don't Crowd the Basket: For the best browning, cook the steak in a single layer. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of searing it.

• Dry the Steak: Patting the steak cubes dry is the secret to a crispy, caramelized exterior.

• Customize It: Feel free to add other vegetables to the air fryer with the potatoes, such as halved mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.

• Serving Suggestions: This dish is a full meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad, steamed asparagus, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

• Meal Prep: This recipe stores beautifully. Let it cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.