These Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a tasty treat! Juicy steak is cooked to perfection, then topped with a zesty homemade butter and served on soft buns. What’s not to love?
These sliders are perfect for a quick meal or a fun gathering. I can’t help but sneak an extra one or two—you know you want to do the same! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I love using ribeye for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin works too. If you’re looking for something leaner, flank steak or even leftover roast beef can be a great substitute!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice here because you control the saltiness of the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or a flavored olive oil.
Fresh Herbs: Chives and parsley add a nice touch. If you don’t have them, use dried herbs or substitute with green onions for a similar flavor. Fresh dill or cilantro can also bring a unique twist!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap it out for pepper jack if you want a little spice. For a non-dairy diet, look for vegan cheese slices.
How Can I Make My Cowboy Butter Extra Flavorful?
The cowboy butter is where the magic happens! To make it super flavorful, freshly chop the herbs and ensure the butter is soft enough to mix well. Here’s how to punch up that flavor:
- Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a robust taste.
- Mix in a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity, which brightens the flavor.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a rich umami depth.
- For a smoky kick, increase the smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Spread this delightful butter generously on your buns for an extra mouthful of flavor!
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb (450g) steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), sliced thinly for sliders
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 slider buns or small sandwich rolls
For the Cowboy Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
- Lettuce or arugula leaves, for garnish
- Pickles or sliced jalapeños (optional), for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or an easy gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Begin by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and gets that nice sear.
2. Prepare the Steak:
Generously season the thinly sliced steak with salt and black pepper. This helps to enhance the meat’s flavors during cooking.
3. Make the Flavorful Cowboy Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped chives, parsley, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili powder (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and set aside.
4. Cook the Steak:
Place the seasoned steak slices on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. If you like melted cheese, add a slice of cheddar during the last minute of cooking to let it melt.
5. Toast the Slider Buns:
While the steak cooks, lightly toast the slider buns on the grill or skillet until they are golden brown.
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread a generous amount of the cowboy butter on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Then, place a leaf of lettuce or arugula, followed by the cooked steak (and melted cheese if used).
7. Add Toppings:
If desired, top your sliders with pickles or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Spread a bit more cowboy butter on the top bun before closing the slider.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders and serve them immediately. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use Different Types of Steak?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are great choices for sliders, you can also use flank steak or even leftover roast beef. Just make sure it’s sliced thinly for the best texture in your sliders!
What Can I Substitute for the Cowboy Butter Ingredients?
If you’re out of fresh chives or parsley, feel free to use green onions or dried herbs as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan butter or a flavored olive oil to achieve a similar richness.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave. If you want to keep the buns from getting soggy, you can reheat the steak separately and then assemble again.
Can I Make the Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The cowboy butter can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just let it sit out at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using so it softens enough to spread easily.
