These Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a fun, tasty treat! They’re made with juicy steak and a yummy butter sauce that’s herby and a little spicy. Perfect for a party or snack!
Every bite is packed with flavor, and let’s be real—who doesn’t love steak in slider form? I like to pile on the toppings for extra crunch. Yum!
Making these sliders is super easy. Just cook the steak, whip up the sauce, and layer them on soft buns. They’re ready in a flash and are always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank steak or sirloin works well for sliders. If you want a leaner cut, try top round steak. For a twist, you can even use grilled chicken or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil for a similar effect. I love adding a touch of flavor with garlic-infused oil for a different taste.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give great flavor. If you lack smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can brighten the taste. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different herbs like oregano or thyme!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for these sliders! You might try pepper jack if you want something spicier. For non-dairy, shredded vegan cheese does a solid job as well.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Steak?
Cooking the steak just right is crucial for tasty sliders. Here’s how to do it well:
- Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. A hot surface gives a nice crust!
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; it should read about 130°F.
- After cooking, let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This makes it juicier.
- Slice against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines you see in the meat, making for more tender bites.
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slider buns or small sandwich rolls
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Sliced pickles (optional)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), chopped parsley, and chives until everything is well combined. Set the cowboy butter aside for later use.
2. Season and Cook the Steak:
Generously season your steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat your grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting the time to your preference. When done, take the steak off the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
3. Slice the Steak:
Once rested, thinly slice the steak against the grain to ensure each slider is tender and easy to bite into.
4. Toast the Buns:
Slice the slider buns in half. Lightly toast them on the grill or skillet until they turn golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread a generous amount of cowboy butter on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Layer on slices of steak, then add a slice of cheddar cheese if you like. Top with lettuce, pickles, and red onion slices if desired. Finally, place the other half of the bun on top.
6. Serve:
If you need to, secure the sliders with toothpicks to hold everything in place. Serve immediately while they’re warm and enjoy these delicious sliders with family and friends!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy cowboy butter steak sliders!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank and sirloin are great choices, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a more tender result. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the cut.
How Do I Make These Sliders Spicier?
If you’re looking for an extra kick, consider adding more cayenne pepper to the cowboy butter or using spicy mustard as a spread on the buns. Pepper jack cheese is another tasty option for added heat!
Can I Prepare the Cowboy Butter in Advance?
Yes! You can make the cowboy butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to let it soften at room temperature before using.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or skillet to warm them through, keeping the buns from getting too soggy.