Forget Everything You Know About Steak and Potatoes

Steak bites and potatoes usually mean a greasy pan, a messy kitchen, and a smoke detector screaming like it’s auditioning for American Idol. Enter the air fryer—your new best friend. Crispy potatoes, juicy steak bites, and zero drama.

You get restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes, with less oil than a TikTok influencer’s skincare routine. Why waste time babysitting a skillet when your air fryer can do the heavy lifting? Let’s make magic happen.

Why This Recipe Slaps

Air fryer steak bites and potatoes are the ultimate weeknight cheat code.

The steak stays tender, the potatoes get crispy, and cleanup is a joke. The air fryer’s convection heat locks in flavor without drowning everything in oil. Plus, you can customize the seasoning like it’s your personality—bold, spicy, or classic.

It’s the kind of meal that makes you question why you ever bothered with takeout.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb sirloin steak (or ribeye, if you’re fancy), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved (or quartered if they’re thicc)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil, because health)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (because fresh garlic is too much work)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that ~depth~)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or more, we don’t judge)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground if you’re extra)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional, but highly recommended)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, aka Instagram clout)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the potatoes: Toss halved baby potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes while you chop the steak.
2. Season the steak: Coat steak bites with the remaining olive oil, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Let them sit for 5 minutes—patience is a virtue, or so they say.
3. Air fry together: Add steak bites to the air fryer basket with the potatoes.

   Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Pro tip: If you like your steak medium-rare, pull it at 8 minutes.

4. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (or don’t, we’re not your boss). Devour immediately—this isn’t a meal that waits.

How to Store Leftovers (If You Have Any)

Let the steak bites and potatoes cool completely before tossing them in an airtight container.

They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to revive the crispiness. Microwaving is an option, but it’ll turn everything sad and soggy—you’ve been warned.

Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer

It’s fast, easy, and healthy-ish.

You’re cutting calories by ditching the deep fryer, but keeping all the flavor. The air fryer gives you crispy potatoes without the oil bath, and the steak stays juicy instead of turning into leather. Plus, it’s a one-basket wonder—minimal cleanup means more time for Netflix.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the basket: Give the food space, or you’ll end up with steamed steak (gross).
• Skipping the shake: Shake the basket halfway for even cooking.

  Laziness = uneven crispiness.

• Using lean steak: Sirloin works, but ribeye or NY strip delivers better flavor and tenderness.
• Underseasoning: Potatoes are flavor sponges. Be generous with the salt and spices.

Swaps and Substitutions

No baby potatoes? Use diced sweet potatoes or even cauliflower for a low-carb twist.

Swap steak for chicken breast (cook time may vary). Out of smoked paprika? Cajun seasoning or chili powder works.

Vegetarian? Skip the steak and double down on veggies—just adjust cooking times.

FAQs

Can I use frozen steak bites?

Yes, but thaw them first. Frozen steak will release too much water, and you’ll end up with soggy potatoes.

Nobody wants that.

Why are my potatoes not crispy?

You probably didn’t dry them well after washing, or you overcrowded the basket. Pat them dry and give them space—crispiness is non-negotiable.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Technically no, but it helps with even cooking. If you’re impatient (like most of us), just add 1–2 minutes to the cook time.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely.

Cook as directed, let it cool, and store in meal prep containers. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer steak bites and potatoes are the ultimate no-brainer meal. It’s faster than delivery, healthier than deep-frying, and tastes like you put in way more effort than you did.

If you’re not making this at least once a week, you’re missing out. Now go forth and air fry like a pro.