These Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy steak is cooked to perfection and topped with a zesty cowboy butter sauce that adds lots of flavor.
Perfect for gatherings, these sliders are sure to impress everyone. I love serving them with crispy fries, and honestly, who can resist that buttery goodness? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin steak works best for these sliders. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can use skirt steak. Just make sure to slice it against the grain for tenderness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness. You can substitute with plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme bring freshness. You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but fresh is more flavorful. Dried herbs are stronger, so use about a third of the amount.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for some heat. If you prefer a milder taste, simply skip it or replace it with paprika for flavor without the spice.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Steak for Sliders?
Cooking steak can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by bringing the steak to room temperature for even cooking. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high. This helps to get a nice sear.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too often to get that perfect crust!
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Getting the steak right is key to a delicious slider, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak and Sliders:
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 slider buns, split
For the Cowboy Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced cheddar cheese
- Lettuce
- Pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking the steak. Combine the two, and you can have these delicious sliders ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter:
In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Add in the lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. Set the cowboy butter aside for later.
2. Season the Steak:
Take your steak and pat it dry with a paper towel. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the steak.
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak on the hot surface and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. I recommend medium-rare to medium for the juiciest results. Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes to keep it tender and juicy.
4. Slice the Steak:
Carefully slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means cutting across the muscle fibers, which helps keep each piece tender!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Take the bottom half of each slider bun and spread a generous coating of the cowboy butter on it. Layer the sliced steak on top. If you’re using cheddar cheese, place a slice over the hot steak to let it melt a little. You can also add lettuce and pickles if you’d like!
6. Top and Serve:
Spread some more cowboy butter on the top half of the slider bun and place it on top of the steak. Serve your cowboy butter steak sliders warm, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
These sliders are perfect for game day or any gathering. Enjoy!
FAQ About Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Yes, you can! While flank or sirloin steak is recommended for its tenderness, cuts like ribeye or skirt steak also work great. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired doneness!
Can I Make the Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The cowboy butter can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using to soften it again.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any sliders left, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider using an oven to keep the buns crispy!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Other great options include sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or different types of cheese. Make it your own!
