Have you ever had one of those days where you just crave something incredibly satisfying, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Or maybe you’re hosting a game day party and need an appetizer that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? That’s precisely how these Butter Steak Sliders came into my life.
I remember one particularly hectic Saturday. The kids were running around, my husband was glued to the TV, and I was desperately trying to figure out dinner. I had some steak in the fridge, some slider buns in the pantry, and a whole lot of butter just waiting to be melted. That’s when the idea struck me: why not combine them all into bite-sized, flavorful sliders? And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
The tender steak, infused with rich butter and garlic, nestled in those soft, slightly sweet slider buns… Pure heaven! My son, who’s usually a picky eater, devoured three of them. My husband, eyes still glued to the game, managed to give me a thumbs-up between bites. It was a win all around!
Now, I know what you might be thinking: steak sliders sound fancy and complicated. But trust me, this recipe is surprisingly simple. I’ve tweaked and perfected it over the years, making it foolproof even on the busiest weeknights. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required. Just good, honest food that brings joy to the table. The best part? These Butter Steak Sliders are incredibly versatile. They work as an appetizer, a light meal, or even a fun party snack.
I’ve had my share of kitchen fails, and I’ve learned that the best recipes are the ones that are forgiving and adaptable. This Butter Steak Sliders recipe is exactly that. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking, swap out the buns for your favorite kind, or add your own creative twist. That’s the beauty of home cooking, right?
So, if you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress, look no further. Grab your apron, and let’s make some Butter Steak Sliders together! I promise, you and your family will love them. A great meal starts with quality ingredients, so let’s see what’s on our list!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delectable Butter Steak Sliders. I’ve included my notes and a few substitution ideas to help you make them your own.
- 1 pound Sirloin Steak: I usually go for sirloin because it’s relatively affordable and cooks quickly. You could also use flank steak or skirt steak if you prefer. Look for a cut with good marbling for the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to explore other cuts of steak as well. Ribeye can add a level of tenderness and flavor due to its higher fat content.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: This is where the “butter” in Butter Steak Sliders comes from! I always use unsalted so I can control the saltiness of the dish. You can use salted butter if you prefer, just adjust the amount of salt you add later. Brown butter can also be added here to make it a bit more savory!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! The aroma alone is enough to make my mouth water. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. Garlic brings so much flavor to the party, it’s hard to beat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to sear the steak beautifully. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if that’s what you have. For a bit of a unique flavor, try using avocado oil!
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t skip it! If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use a splash of soy sauce instead. The umami flavor Worcestershire sauce provides is really important.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives the steak a subtle smoky flavor. Regular paprika will also work in a pinch. Experiment with other spices like chipotle powder for added heat, if you want to spice things up!
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle savory flavor that complements the other spices. Granulated onion can also be used.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously! Don’t be afraid to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Using kosher salt is a great way to go, as it’s not as salty as regular table salt.
- 12 slider buns: Hawaiian rolls are my personal favorite for Butter Steak Sliders because they’re soft, slightly sweet, and perfectly sized. But you can use any kind of slider bun you like! Potato rolls, brioche rolls, or even mini pretzel buns would be delicious. Don’t be afraid to try brioche buns for an extra rich taste!
- Optional toppings: Here’s where you can get creative! I love adding caramelized onions, melted cheese (provolone, cheddar, or even a cheese sauce!), or a drizzle of a garlic aioli. Some people like a bit of heat, so jalapenos can also be added!
Shopping Tip: When buying steak, try to buy it a day or two in advance. This allows you to properly marinade it, and if you are freezing, it helps avoid freezer burn.
Storage Hack: I like to keep extra butter in the freezer. I will slice it into tablespoon sized pads and store them in a plastic bag. This helps to easily portion out butter for other recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and make these amazing Butter Steak Sliders! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step like I’m right there with you in your kitchen.
- Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Don’t be shy! Consider using a marinade for even more flavor!
- Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the steak in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Remember, the internal temperature for medium-rare is around 130-135°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy if you are worried. A cast-iron skillet is a great way to maintain the heat and get a good sear!
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. I can’t stress this enough – don’t skip this step! This is key to a great Butter Steak Sliders. Tent the steak with foil to keep it warm during the resting period.
- Make the Butter Sauce: While the steak is resting, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Stir in the Worcestershire sauce. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Slice the Steak: After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This makes it easier to chew and more tender. A sharp knife is essential for this step to ensure clean slices.
- Assemble the Sliders: Cut the slider buns in half. Dip the sliced steak into the butter sauce, ensuring each slice is well coated. Place the buttered steak onto the bottom halves of the slider buns. Drizzle any remaining butter sauce over the steak.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, add your favorite toppings. I love caramelized onions and melted provolone cheese. Place the top halves of the slider buns on top of the steak and toppings. Get creative with your toppings!
- Serve Immediately: These Butter Steak Sliders are best served warm. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Make sure the sliders are warm when serving them!
Cooking Tip: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. This will help you get a nice sear.
Family Reaction: The other day, I decided to double the recipe because my family loves these so much. They were gone in minutes! My daughter even asked if we could have them again the next night.
Meal Prep Insight: You can slice the steak and prepare the butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the sliders just before serving.
Leftover Advice: If you have any leftover steak, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet with a little butter before adding it to the sliders.
Serving Ideas
Okay, so you’ve made these incredible Butter Steak Sliders, now what? Here are a few ideas on how to serve them and make them even more of a hit:
- Side Dishes: These sliders pair perfectly with classic sides like french fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. For a lighter option, try serving them with a side salad or coleslaw. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces for an enhanced experience.
- Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives. You can also serve them with small bowls of your favorite dipping sauces, like BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. Toothpicks can also add a bit more flair!
- Occasions: These Butter Steak Sliders are perfect for just about any occasion! They’re great for game day parties, backyard barbecues, potlucks, or even a casual weeknight dinner. They’re also a fun and unexpected addition to a brunch spread.
- Leftover Transformations: If you have any leftover sliders, you can chop them up and add them to a salad or use them as a filling for tacos or quesadillas. You can also reheat them and serve them over rice or mashed potatoes.
- Portion Sizes: I usually recommend serving 2-3 sliders per person as an appetizer, or 3-4 sliders per person as a main course. But honestly, it depends on how hungry everyone is! My family can easily put away 4 sliders each. Adjust the portion based on your guests!
- Family Feedback: My kids love when I add a slice of cheese to the sliders. My husband prefers them with caramelized onions and a drizzle of garlic aioli. And I personally love them just as they are, with a little bit of the butter sauce.
- Add a Cheese Sauce: As I said earlier, a cheese sauce will make these Butter Steak Sliders something special. Add a simple cheese sauce on top to take it up a notch! Experiment with different cheeses and sauces to create unique variations.
FAQs
I’ve been making these Butter Steak Sliders for years, and I’ve gotten a lot of questions about them. Here are some of the most common ones:
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: Absolutely! While I typically use sirloin because it’s affordable and cooks quickly, you can definitely use other cuts like flank steak, skirt steak, or even ribeye. Just keep in mind that different cuts will have different cooking times.
Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! You can slice the steak and prepare the butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the sliders just before serving. This is a great way to save time if you’re hosting a party or having a busy week.
Q: Can I freeze these sliders?
A: I don’t recommend freezing the assembled sliders, as the buns can get soggy. However, you can freeze the cooked steak and butter sauce separately. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and assemble the sliders just before serving.
Q: Can I make these sliders low-sodium?
A: Yes, you can! Simply reduce the amount of salt you add to the steak and the butter sauce. You can also use low-sodium Worcestershire sauce or omit it altogether. I would suggest seasoning it to your liking as you cook!
Q: What if I don’t have slider buns?
A: No problem! You can use regular hamburger buns or even small dinner rolls. Just adjust the amount of steak you use per slider accordingly.
Q: Can I make these in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! I would suggest searing the steak first in a pan. Then, put the steak in the slow cooker with the butter, garlic, worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the steak is cooked through and easily shredded. Use the shredded steak to build the sliders.
Q: What if I overcook the steak?
A: Oh no! We’ve all been there. If you overcook the steak, don’t worry, it’s not ruined. You can still use it for the sliders. Just slice it very thinly and drizzle it with plenty of the butter sauce to help keep it moist.
Q: What is the best way to caramelize the onions for the sliders?
A: I like to slice the onions thinly and cook them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little butter and olive oil. Stir them occasionally and cook them until they’re soft, golden brown, and sweet. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
Q: Can I add cheese to the Butter Steak Sliders?
A: Yes! My family loves when I add a slice of cheese, as I mentioned before. Provolone, cheddar, or even a cheese sauce would be delicious.
Conclusion
These Butter Steak Sliders are more than just a recipe to me; they’re a symbol of simple, delicious meals that bring my family together. It’s that dish I can always count on, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend celebration. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home too!
I know you’ll enjoy making these Butter Steak Sliders and sharing them with your loved ones. Here are a few final tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings. Caramelized onions, melted cheese, or a drizzle of garlic aioli can take these sliders to the next level.
- Resting the steak is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain. This makes it easier to chew and more tender.
Over the years, I’ve made a few fun variations of these sliders. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles for a tangy kick, or I’ll swap out the Hawaiian rolls for pretzel buns for a savory twist. My husband even likes to add a few slices of jalapeño for a little heat. The possibilities are endless! You should try these delicious Butter Steak Sliders with garlic butter steak noodles for a very hearty meal! Also, have you ever tried putting butter on your popcorn? Take a look at how to get popcorn seasoning to stick without butter for a great trick!
I really encourage you to try this recipe out! Once you do, please feel free to comment on the page and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking! These Butter Steak Sliders are sure to become a hit in your home.
Butter Steak Sliders
These Butter Steak Sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat, featuring tender steak slathered in a garlic butter sauce, piled high on soft slider buns. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 12 slider buns
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Provolone cheese slices
- Optional: Caramelized onions
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
- Pour half of the garlic butter mixture over the steak in the last minute of cooking.
- If using cheese, place a slice of provolone on top of each steak slider during the last 30 seconds of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a minute.
- Assemble the sliders by placing the steak onto the slider buns.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the steak sliders.
- Top with caramelized onions, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For an extra touch, try toasting the slider buns before assembling. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor!