These Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are packed with juicy steak and a rich, buttery sauce that will make your taste buds dance! The sliders are quick to make and perfect for any gathering.
Who doesn’t love a mini burger? I love how easy they are to munch on while chatting with friends. Just stack them high with your favorite toppings! Yum!
Making these sliders is a breeze. Just cook the steak, mix the cowboy butter, and assemble. They’re always a hit at my parties, so be ready to share the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Skirt or flank steak works best for sliders due to its flavor and tenderness. If those cuts aren’t available, consider using sirloin or ribeye for similar results.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling salt levels. You could use olive oil as a healthier option, but it will change the flavor of the cowboy butter.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives depth, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of liquid smoke can add a nice touch. You can skip cayenne if you prefer milder flavors.
Onions: Caramelized onions add sweetness, but if you’re short on time, skip this and just use fresh onion slices for crunch.
Buns: Slider buns are great, but you can use small dinner rolls or even mini bagels as substitutes. Just ensure they are fluffy to hold the filling well.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Steak for Sliders?
Cooking the steak correctly is crucial for tasty sliders. Here’s a simple process to ensure it’s cooked just right:
- Start with room temperature steak to ensure even cooking. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Heat your pan or grill to medium-high. When hot, place the steak on it, and avoid moving it around for the first few minutes.
- Cook for about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust cook time if you prefer it less or more cooked.
- Let the cooked steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside.
- Always slice against the grain. This makes the meat more tender and easier to bite into!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously juicy steak sliders that everyone will enjoy!
Savory Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) skirt or flank steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns, split and toasted
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced and caramelized (optional)
- Lettuce leaves or baby spinach (optional)
- Pickles or sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep and cooking, with a little time for assembling the sliders and enjoying them!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Cowboy Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy. Mix well until all the ingredients are nicely blended, and then set it aside for later use.
2. Cook the Steak:
Take your skirt or flank steak and season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Preheat either a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay the steak onto the grill or skillet and cook it for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you like it more cooked, let it go a couple more minutes. Once done, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Slice the Steak:
After resting, use a sharp knife to thinly slice the steak against the grain. This will help ensure your sliders are tender and easy to eat.
4. Assemble Sliders:
Grab your toasted slider buns, and generously spread the cowboy butter on the bottom half of each bun. Place a few slices of the cooked steak right on top of the butter.
5. Add Toppings (Optional):
If you like, add a layer of caramelized onions for sweetness and top with some fresh lettuce or baby spinach. You can also add pickles or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
6. Finish:
Spread a bit more cowboy butter on the top bun and place it on top of the assembled sliders, completing your delicious creations.
7. Serve:
Optionally, secure each slider with a toothpick for easy handling, then serve them warm to your excited guests. Enjoy the savory flavors and buttery goodness!
Now, dig in and enjoy your savory, buttery steak sliders packed with bold flavors!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While skirt or flank steak is recommended for its flavor and tenderness, you can use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a kick, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the cowboy butter mixture. You can also opt for spicier toppings like sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top of the sliders.
Can I Prepare Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the cowboy butter in advance! Prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before using it.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have any leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to get that nice toastiness back!
