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Air fryer beef cubes with juicy bite sized steak pieces, a crispy seasoned crust, tender medium rare center, fresh rosemary, and dipping sauce, served as an easy high protein dinner.
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Air Fryer Beef Cubes - Quick, Juicy, and Packed With Flavor

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1.25–1.5 pounds beef (sirloin, strip steak, ribeye, or chuck roast), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1.5 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or Worcestershire for extra umami
  • Optional finish: 1 tablespoon butter and 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Equipment: Air fryer, tongs, large bowl

Instructions

  • Prep the beef: Pat the cubes very dry with paper towels. Dry surfaces brown better and won’t steam in the air fryer.
  • Season: In a large bowl, toss beef with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme. If using, add soy sauce or Worcestershire. Coat evenly.
  • Preheat: Heat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps with searing.
  • Arrange: Spread beef cubes in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd. Work in batches if needed so the hot air can circulate.
  • Cook: Air fry at 400°F for 6–9 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping cubes halfway. Time varies by cube size and your air fryer model.
  • Check doneness: For medium-rare, aim for an internal temp of 130–135°F; medium is 140–145°F. Pull them a few degrees early—they’ll rise slightly as they rest.
  • Finish (optional): Toss the hot cubes with a small pat of butter and parsley for a glossy, steakhouse finish.
  • Rest and serve: Let the beef rest 3 minutes, then serve with your favorite sides or sauces.