These Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a tasty treat! Juicy steak is piled high on soft slider buns and topped with a creamy, flavorful butter that makes every bite mouthwatering.
What’s great is how quick they are to whip up! I love serving these sliders at parties, and they rarely last long. Everyone wants just one more! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank steak is tasty and easy to slice thinly, but sirloin works well too. If you’re looking for alternatives, try chicken or portobello mushrooms for a different twist!
Butter: The cowboy butter is key! Use unsalted butter for better control of the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, avocado or olive oil could work as a spread alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack adds a fun kick. You can skip the cheese for a lighter option or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free slider.
Buns: Slider buns are great, but you can use regular dinner rolls or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb choice!
How Do I Ensure My Steak is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak perfectly can be a bit tricky, but here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to ensure a nice sear—medium-high heat is perfect.
- Don’t rush it! Let the steak cook 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check—135°F (57°C) is ideal!
- Let it rest after cooking! This keeps juices inside. Slice against the grain to make it tender.
With a little patience and attention, you’ll have steak sliders that are juicy and full of flavor!
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cowboy Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Assembling the Sliders:
- 8 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 1/2 cup sliced cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese (optional)
- Pickles or caramelized onions for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 25-30 minutes to prepare these sliders. This includes about 10 minutes for prep work, 10 minutes for cooking the steak, and a few minutes for assembling the sliders. They are quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by preheating a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the steak dry, then season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Drizzle the olive oil on top and rub it in to ensure even coating. This will help give it a nice sear!
2. Cook the Steak:
Place the seasoned steak on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked, take the steak off the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time is crucial for juicy steak! After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain.
3. Make the Cowboy Butter:
While the steak is resting, mix the softened butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and chopped parsley in a bowl. Stir until well combined. This butter is going to add a delicious flavor to the sliders!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns horizontally. Spread a generous amount of cowboy butter on the bottom half of each bun. Now layer the sliced steak evenly over the buttered buns. If you fancy a cheesy touch, add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of the steak while it’s still warm so it melts a bit!
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
If you’re using pickles or caramelized onions, add those on top of the steak and cheese. Finally, place the top half of the buns over everything. Serve the sliders warm and enjoy the wonderful, savory flavors!
This recipe makes approximately 8 hearty sliders—perfect for a crowd or a fun family meal! Enjoy your cooking and have fun sharing these with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are great choices for sliders, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the steak.
Can I Make the Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cowboy butter in advance! Just mix all the ingredients together, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, simply bring it to room temperature before spreading.
What Should I Do with Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven or a skillet over low heat until heated through, keeping the buns soft and delicious!
Can I Freeze the Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak and assembled sliders! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy later, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but they’ll still be tasty!
