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Looking for a quick, tasty meal? Try my Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Bites! You’ll find juicy steak, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan all cooked to perfection in minutes. In this article, I’ll walk you through each step, from marinating the steak to air frying it just right. Let’s spice up your dinner routine with this delightful recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal prep.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that elevates simple steak bites.
- Healthier Cooking: Using an air fryer reduces the need for excess oil, making this a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Serving: These steak bites can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even tossed into salads or wraps for a delicious twist.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Sirloin steak details: Use 1 lb of sirloin steak. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Sirloin gives a nice flavor and texture.
– Olive oil and garlic: You need 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 cloves of minced garlic. These add richness and depth.
– Seasonings and cheese: Use 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Also, have 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This creates a savory crust.
– Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped, adds color and freshness. It’s great for a final touch.
These ingredients come together to make a delicious meal. They work well in an air fryer, keeping the steak bites juicy and flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Steak
To start, I prepare the marinade. In a bowl, I mix three tablespoons of olive oil with four minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and half a teaspoon of paprika. I add salt and pepper to taste. This blend brings out rich flavors.
Next, I toss the steak cubes into the marinade. I make sure each piece is well-coated. This helps the steak absorb those tasty flavors. I let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For even better results, I sometimes marinate it in the fridge for up to two hours. The longer it sits, the more flavor it gains.
Air Frying the Steak Bites
Now, I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for cooking the steak evenly and getting that great texture. Once it’s hot, I place the marinated steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. I leave some space between them to allow hot air to circulate.
I air fry the steak bites for 8 to 10 minutes. Halfway through, I shake the basket to ensure even cooking. For a medium-rare finish, I aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F.
Adding the Finishing Touches
When the steak bites are done, I take them out and immediately sprinkle half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese over them. The heat from the steak helps melt the cheese, creating a delicious layer on top.
Finally, I garnish the steak bites with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Now, they are ready to serve!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To really boost the flavor of your steak bites, marinate them for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, let them sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours. The olive oil and garlic work wonders.
When it comes to cooking, aim for your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, check for about 135°F. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
Air Fryer Tips
To ensure even cooking in your air fryer, arrange the steak bites in a single layer. Leave some space between them. This helps hot air reach all sides.
If you use different cuts of steak, adjust the cooking time. Thicker cuts will need more time, while thinner cuts cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these steak bites with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. They also go well with mashed potatoes or rice.
For a fun touch, serve with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup. Add fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor significantly; for best results, marinate it for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure that the steak bites cook evenly and develop a nice sear on the outside.
- Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; 135°F is ideal for medium-rare, but adjust according to your preference.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese immediately after cooking to allow the residual heat to melt it perfectly over the steak bites.

Variations
Different Seasonings
You can switch up the herbs and spices in this recipe. Instead of Italian seasoning, try a mix of rosemary and thyme for a fresh taste. You can also use cumin or chili powder for a spicy kick. Adding lemon zest gives a bright flavor. You can even use a dash of hot sauce in the marinade for some heat.
Alternative Cuts of Steak
While sirloin works great, you can use other cuts like ribeye or flank steak. Ribeye adds more fat and flavor but may need less cooking time. Flank steak is leaner and should be cut thin against the grain for tenderness. Adjust cooking times to keep the steak juicy and avoid overcooking.
Cooking Methods
You can cook these steak bites in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the steak bites on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes. If you enjoy grilling, you can place them on skewers for easy handling. Grill over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. This adds a nice char and smoky flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your garlic Parmesan air fryer steak bites, first, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them fresh and tasty. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you have more, you can freeze them. Use a freezer-safe bag for the best results. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Tips
To reheat steak bites, the best method is using the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious. You can also use a skillet. Heat on medium-low and stir gently until warm. Avoid using the microwave, as it makes the steak chewy. Always check the steak to ensure it’s heated through but not overcooked. Enjoy your tasty bites!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts. Here are some good options:
– Ribeye: This cut is rich and flavorful.
– Flank steak: It has a nice texture and cooks quickly.
– Tenderloin: This cut is very tender and lean.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Check the steak with a meat thermometer. Here are the target temperatures:
– Rare: 125°F
– Medium-rare: 135°F
– Medium: 145°F
– Medium-well: 150°F
– Well done: 160°F
Can I freeze garlic parmesan steak bites?
Yes, you can freeze them. Here’s how to do it:
– Let the cooked steak bites cool down.
– Place them in an airtight container.
– They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer. This keeps them juicy.
You now know how to make delicious garlic Parmesan steak bites. We covered ingredients, marination, and air frying steps. I shared tips for the best flavor and variations to try. You can store leftovers and reheat them well without drying out. Follow the cooking guide to ensure your steak is just right. Remember, the key is in the marinade and cooking method. Enjoy your tasty creation
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Bites
Deliciously marinated steak bites cooked to perfection in an air fryer, topped with melted Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 350 kcal
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 2 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Add the steak cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place the marinated steak bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they have some space in between for even cooking.
Air fry the steak bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they reach your desired level of doneness (about 135°F for medium-rare).
Once cooked, immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the steak bites as they come out of the air fryer, allowing the heat to melt the cheese slightly.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Marinate for longer for deeper flavor.
Keyword air fryer, garlic, Parmesan, steak
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