These Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a real treat! Juicy steak nestled in soft rolls, slathered with a zesty cowboy butter that adds a kick of flavor. Yum!
When I make these, I can’t help but smile. They’re perfect for game day or a fun dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love a mini burger loaded with buttery goodness? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I love using flank steak for its robust flavor, but sirloin works great too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could try chicken breast or even a plant-based steak alternative!
Buns: Slider buns are perfect here, but any small dinner rolls will do. Gluten-free rolls can be a good substitute if needed.
Cowboy Butter: The star of the show! If you’re out of any herbs, dried versions will work in a pinch or you can skip them completely. For a spicy kick, toss in more cayenne or even some hot sauce.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, yet feel free to swap for pepper jack for added heat or even a creamier cheese like Brie for a fun twist!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Steak Every Time?
Cooking steak can be tricky! It’s all about the technique. First, let your steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Pat it dry to create a good sear – moisture can hinder browning.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot! A drop of water should sizzle immediately.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper before placing it in the pan. Don’t move it around; just let it sear for that beautiful brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer for precision. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare!
- After cooking, let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy.
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh arugula or lettuce, for topping
For the Cowboy Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, plus a little time for the steak to rest. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have delicious sliders ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped chives, parsley, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. Set this mixture aside—this will add amazing flavor to your sliders!
2. Cook the Steak:
Start by patting your steak dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the steak in the skillet. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more cooked. After cooking, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time keeps it juicy!
3. Slice the Steak:
Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Thin slices will make for tender bites in your sliders!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Take each slider bun and spread a generous amount of cowboy butter on the bottom half. Layer the sliced steak over the butter, add a slice of cheddar cheese if you like, and then top it off with a handful of fresh arugula or lettuce. For an extra touch, spread more cowboy butter on the top half of the buns before placing them over the fillings.
5. Serve:
Enjoy your sliders warm! You can serve them with extra cowboy butter on the side for those who want a little more flavor.
These steak sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or a fun family meal!
Enjoy these flavorful, buttery steak sliders perfect for any casual meal or gathering!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are popular choices, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a more tender option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the cut.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cowboy butter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also cook the steak ahead of time, slice it, and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Assemble the sliders just before serving for the best taste!
What Can I Serve with These Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or a side salad. You can also serve them with pickles or your favorite dipping sauces for a fun touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the buns get a little soft, you can toast them lightly before serving again!
