Dry Rub Air Fryer Steak Bites – Air Fryer Recipes

1 pound of steak (such as sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (for extra flavor)

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and any optional dried herbs. Mix well to create a dry rub paste.
Add the steak bite pieces to the bowl and toss them in the dry rub mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Place the coated steak bites in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure there’s some space between the pieces to allow for proper air circulation.
Cook the steak bites in the air fryer for about 8-12 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through cooking. The exact cooking time will depend on your preferred level of doneness and the thickness of the steak bites. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the steak moist.
Serve the dry rub air fryer steak bites hot as a delicious appetizer, snack, or as a protein-packed addition to salads or bowls.

It’s important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and proper browning of the steak bites.
Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings in the dry rub to suit your taste preferences. You can make it milder or spicier, depending on your liking.
Experiment with different cuts of steak for varying levels of tenderness and flavor. However, leaner cuts may require slightly shorter cooking times to prevent overcooking.
For added flavor, you can marinate the steak bites in the dry rub mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Keep an eye on the steak bites as they cook, especially if it’s your first time making them in the air fryer. Cooking times can vary based on the specific air fryer model and thickness of the steak bites.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the steak bites in batches if needed to ensure they cook evenly and get that desired crispy exterior.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful dry rub air fryer steak bites!

For best results, pat the steak bite pieces dry with paper towels before coating them with the dry rub. This helps to achieve a better sear and crispiness in the air fryer.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dry rub mixture.
To enhance the flavor and tenderness of the steak, consider using a technique called “reverse searing.” This involves cooking the steak bites in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for about 10-15 minutes, then finishing with a quick sear in a hot skillet or on a grill for a minute or two on each side.
If you want to add a touch of sweetness to the flavor profile, you can include a teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the dry rub mixture.

Asian-Inspired: Create an Asian-inspired dry rub by adding ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of five-spice powder to the mixture. Serve the steak bites with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.
Mediterranean Twist: Use a blend of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest in the dry rub for a Mediterranean flair. Serve the steak bites with a refreshing tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad.
Cajun Spice: Infuse your steak bites with Cajun flavors by adding cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and a bit more cayenne pepper for heat. Serve with a cool ranch or blue cheese dip.
Tex-Mex Delight: Mix chili powder, cumin, lime zest, and a touch of cayenne for Tex-Mex-inspired steak bites. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and warm tortillas.

Turn your air fryer steak bites into a protein-packed salad by placing them on a bed of mixed greens, along with your favorite veggies, cheese, and dressing.
Make a steak bite bowl by combining the bites with cooked quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce (such as chimichurri or teriyaki).
Serve the steak bites as sliders, sandwiched between mini buns with your preferred toppings and condiments.
Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy horseradish dip.
Arrange the steak bites on a platter with toothpicks for a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.