Go Back

Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes - Quick, Flavorful, and Satisfying

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Steak: 1.25–1.5 pounds sirloin, ribeye, New York strip, or flat iron
  • Baby potatoes: 1.25 pounds, halved or quartered for even cooking
  • Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted preferred
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1.5–2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional but recommended)
  • Salt and pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked or sweet)
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Red pepper flakes: Pinch for heat (optional)
  • Lemon: 1/2, for finishing squeeze (optional)

Instructions

  • Prep the steak: Pat steak dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat and cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil and toss to coat. Let it sit while you prep the potatoes.
  • Prep the potatoes: Halve or quarter baby potatoes so pieces are about 3/4–1 inch. Toss with 1 tablespoon oil, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the potatoes crisp and gives the steak a nice sear.
  • Cook the potatoes first: Add seasoned potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and almost tender. Transfer to a bowl and cover loosely.
  • Cook the steak bites: Add steak bites to the basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 5–7 minutes, shaking once. Aim for medium-rare at 130–135°F or medium at 135–140°F. Adjust time by 1–2 minutes based on your air fryer and steak size.
  • Make the garlic butter: While steak cooks, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a small skillet or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Warm just until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds. Squeeze in a little lemon if you like.
  • Toss it all together: Combine hot steak bites and potatoes in a mixing bowl. Pour the warm garlic butter over the top and toss gently. Taste and finish with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
  • Serve: Garnish with extra parsley. Add a wedge of lemon on the side and serve immediately.