📝 About This Recipe
Experience the luxury of a high-end steakhouse in a fraction of the time with these succulent, melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin bites. By utilizing the rapid circulation of the air fryer, we achieve a stunning caramelized crust while maintaining a buttery, medium-rare center that rivals traditional pan-searing. Finished with a decadent compound butter infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, this dish elevates the humble air fryer to a tool of culinary excellence.
🥗 Ingredients
The Steak
- 1.5 pounds Filet Mignon (Beef Tenderloin) (cut into 1.25-inch uniform cubes)
- 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (or any high-smoke point oil)
- 1.5 teaspoons Kosher Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (for a subtle base layer of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (for a hint of color and depth)
Garlic Herb Butter
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature)
- 3 cloves Fresh Garlic (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Rosemary (very finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (leaves removed from stem)
- 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Juice (to brighten the richness)
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 pinch Flaky Sea Salt (such as Maldon)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off; this ensures even cooking throughout the meat.
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2
Pat the steak cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture is the secret to achieving a deep brown sear in an air fryer.
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3
In a small bowl, prepare the Garlic Herb Butter by mashing together the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon juice until well combined. Set aside.
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4
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes. A hot basket is essential for an immediate sear.
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5
In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak cubes with the avocado oil until every side is lightly coated.
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6
Sprinkle the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the steak. Toss again to ensure even distribution of the seasoning.
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7
Arrange the steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; leave space between the pieces for the air to circulate.
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8
Air fry at 400°F for 4 minutes. This initial blast of heat sets the crust.
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9
Open the basket and quickly shake it or use tongs to flip the pieces to ensure even browning.
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10
Continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F-135°F.
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11
Immediately transfer the cooked steak bites to a warm plate or bowl.
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12
While the steak is piping hot, add the Garlic Herb Butter to the bowl. Toss the bites gently so the butter melts and glazes every piece.
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13
Allow the meat to rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender.
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14
Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving immediately.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as air fryer powers vary significantly between brands. Don't skip the oil; even though it's an air fryer, the oil conducts heat to the meat's surface for that 'fried' steak crust. Cut your cubes as uniformly as possible so they all reach the perfect medium-rare at the same time. If cooking for a crowd, work in batches rather than stacking the meat, which would result in steamed, grey beef. Substitute the filet for Ribeye if you prefer a higher fat content and more robust beefy flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of creamy horseradish sauce for dipping. Pair with a glass of bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a peppery Syrah. Accompanied by air-fried asparagus spears or truffle parmesan fries. Serve atop a bed of garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the herb butter. Use decorative bamboo skewers to serve these as an elegant party appetizer.