These juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a true treat! Each slider is packed with tasty steak, topped with creamy, buttery sauce, all nestled in a soft bun. Yum!
They’re perfect for a casual get-together or just a fun dinner. I love piling on extra toppings like cheese and onions because, why not make them even better? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best for these sliders, providing great flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak is a good choice. For a budget-friendly option, consider using sirloin tip or chuck steak, just be sure to slice it thin.
Buns: While small slider buns are ideal, you can use regular burger buns or even Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet twist. Just cut them down to size. Remember, a soft, fresh bun really holds everything together!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. If you want to reduce dairy, try using olive oil or a dairy-free butter. It won’t have the same richness but will still work well in the cowboy butter.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice flavor, but feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even blue cheese if you want something bolder. Each cheese will give a different taste!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions adds a sweet, rich flavor that elevates your sliders. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the onions thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or oil.
- Add the onions and a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly. If they start browning too quickly, lower the heat.
- Once they are golden brown and soft, they’re ready for your sliders!
With this delicious method, your onions will complement the steak beautifully!
Juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into slider-sized pieces or thin slices
- 8 small slider buns
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced and caramelized (optional)
- Lettuce or arugula for serving
- Pickles (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes to cook the steak. You’ll have these delightful sliders ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter:
Start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. Set it aside to let the flavors meld together.
2. Cook the Steak:
Next, heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak pieces lightly with salt and pepper. Once the grill or skillet is hot, add the steak. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or to your preferred doneness (medium-rare to medium is recommended). Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
While the steak is resting, slice the slider buns in half and lightly toast them in a pan or oven until golden brown. Take the warm buns and spread a generous layer of the cowboy butter on both the top and bottom halves, allowing it to melt into the bread.
4. Add Steak and Toppings:
Place the cooked steak slices on the bottom half of each bun. If you like cheese, add a slice of cheddar over the steak while it’s still warm so it can melt. Top your sliders with caramelized onions for sweetness, some crunchy lettuce or peppery arugula, and pickles if you’re feeling adventurous!
5. Top and Serve:
Cap off each slider with the buttery top bun. If needed, secure them with toothpicks to hold it all together. Serve your sliders right away while they’re warm and juicy.
6. Optional Treat:
If you want to add even more flavor, make a bit of extra cowboy butter for dipping or add a layer on the buns right before toasting them. Enjoy every delicious bite!
These juicy, flavorful Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are perfect for casual dining or any gathering. Enjoy!
FAQ for Juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak or even skirt steak. Just be sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Can I Make the Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cowboy butter in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften before spreading it on your buns!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover sliders, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Add a bit more cowboy butter if you’d like to refresh the flavor!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The options are endless! Besides cheddar cheese and caramelized onions, you could use sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños for some heat, or even avocado slices for creaminess. Get creative with your favorite toppings!
