These Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a fun twist on burgers! Juicy steak is paired with a rich, buttery sauce that’s packed with flavor. They are simple to make and perfect for gatherings!
I’ll admit, I love piling on extras like cheese and pickles. Who can resist a tasty slider stacked high with yummy toppings? It’s like a mini feast on a bun! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: Both cuts work great! Sirloin is leaner, while ribeye is juicier thanks to its fat marbling. If you want a lighter option, try grilled chicken or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Slider Buns: Regular slider buns are perfect, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed. For a fun twist, try Hawaiian rolls for added sweetness!
Cowboy Butter: This is where the magic happens! You can swap out parsley for other herbs like chives or cilantro. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce is a good alternative!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or mozzarella for something milder. You could even go cheesy with blue cheese for bold flavor.
How Do You Make Perfect Cowboy Butter?
Creating the cowboy butter is simple but crucial for this recipe! It adds flavor and richness. Here’s how to make it:
- Start with softened unsalted butter. It should be easy to mix, so leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and fresh parsley to the butter in a bowl. Garlic gives a delicious aroma, while parsley adds freshness.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, and cayenne if you like it spicy.
- Blend everything well until it’s smooth. You can use a fork or even a small food processor!
Thorough mixing ensures every bite has that delicious cowboy butter flavor. Enjoy the rich, garlicky goodness on your sliders!
Easy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak or ribeye, thinly sliced or cut into small pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cowboy Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the Sliders:
- 8 small slider buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (cut in half for sliders)
- Pickles (optional)
- Lettuce or arugula leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick sear for the steak, a bit of mixing for the cowboy butter, and assembling the sliders makes it a perfect option for a fun dinner or an easy party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill or Skillet:
Start by heating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure that your steak gets a nice sear when you cook it.
2. Season the Steak:
Take your thinly sliced steak and season it generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the flavors of the meat.
3. Make the Cowboy Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and set it aside. This flavorful butter is what makes the sliders extra special!
4. Grill the Steak:
Place the seasoned steak pieces on the grill or skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach the desired level of doneness. Once done, take the steak off the heat and let it rest for a moment.
5. Toast the Slider Buns:
While the steak is resting, lightly toast the slider buns in the same grill or skillet until they are golden brown. This will add a nice crunch to your sliders.
6. Spread the Cowboy Butter:
Take the toasted slider buns and generously spread cowboy butter on both the top and bottom of each bun. This adds a creamy, flavorful touch to every bite!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
On the bottom half of each bun, layer a portion of the cooked steak. Top each piece of steak with a half slice of cheddar cheese, letting it melt slightly from the warmth of the steak.
8. Add Extras:
If you like, add pickles and lettuce or arugula for a bit of crunch and freshness. Then, place the top bun over each slider.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful sliders immediately and watch them disappear! They’re perfect for a gathering or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the rich flavors of the cowboy butter and the juicy steak!
This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a flavorful meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for These Sliders?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices, you can also use flank steak, skirt steak, or even chicken for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of meat to ensure it reaches your desired doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Cowboy Butter?
If you don’t have all the ingredients for cowboy butter, you can use any flavored butter or even store-bought garlic herb butter. Just remember that the flavors may vary, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Yes! You can pre-cook the steak and prepare the cowboy butter ahead of time. Store the steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the steak and assemble the sliders with freshly toasted buns.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, wrap the sliders tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven to keep the buns from getting soggy.
