These juicy cowboy butter steak sliders are packed with flavor! Tender steak tossed in a rich, buttery sauce, topped with delicious extras, all stuffed in soft slider buns—yum!
Honestly, what’s better than a mini steak sandwich? I love serving these at parties because they disappear fast. Perfect for when you want to impress without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: I recommend flank steak for its flavor, but sirloin is great too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using turkey or chicken breast instead—just make sure to marinate them for extra flavor.
Slider Buns: Regular slider buns work well, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed. Sometimes I use Hawaiian rolls for a touch of sweetness!
Cowboy Butter Sauce: The butter sauce is key! If you want to lighten it up, try using olive oil in place of some of the butter. You could also add chopped herbs like chives or cilantro if you want to mix up the flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Steak for Sliders?
Cooking steak perfectly can seem tricky, but it’s straightforward. Begin by seasoning your steak well. Heat your skillet to medium-high; a hot pan gives a nice sear. Here’s how:
- For medium-rare, aim for 4-5 minutes on each side (adjust for thickness).
- Let the steak rest after cooking. Resting is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, making the steak juicy!
- Always slice against the grain. This ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
With these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked steak that’s ready for your sliders!
Juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 slider buns
- Optional: sliced cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Assembling the Sliders:
- Fresh lettuce leaves or baby arugula
- Sliced pickles or crispy fried onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, including 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, plus an additional 5-10 minutes for letting the steak rest before slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, lemon juice, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined. This buttery goodness will add loads of flavor. Set aside while you cook the steak.
2. Cook the Steak:
Season your flank or sirloin steak with generous amounts of salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides—this builds flavor! Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully place the steak in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust the cooking time if you prefer it more well done). Once done, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
3. Slice the Steak:
After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain into bite-sized strips. Cutting against the grain makes for a tender bite—important for your sliders!
4. Toast the Buns:
While you’re slicing the steak, lightly butter the insides of each slider bun. Toast them in the same skillet or in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy. This step adds extra crunch and flavor to your sliders!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread a generous amount of the cowboy butter sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun. Layer the freshly sliced steak on top. If you’re using cheese, add a slice on top of the steak. Then, add a few crispy lettuce leaves or baby arugula, plus pickles or crispy fried onions if you like an extra crunch. Finally, spread a little more cowboy butter on the top bun and place it over everything.
6. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your sliders right away while the butter is melty and everything is warm! These sliders are bursting with flavor and are sure to impress your friends and family!
This recipe beautifully blends savory steak with a rich, garlicky butter sauce that defines these “cowboy” sliders. They’re perfect for casual gatherings, parties, or game day snacks!
FAQ for Juicy Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are great options, you can also use ribeye or tri-tip for more marbling and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time based on the cut you choose, as thicker cuts may need longer cooking times.
How Can I Make These Sliders Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the cowboy butter sauce or add some diced jalapeños to the sliders. For an even bolder flavor, consider using spicy pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheddar.
What Should I Do with Any Leftover Cowboy Butter Sauce?
Leftover cowboy butter can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Use it as a flavorful spread for bread, veggies, or to sauté other meats and seafood. It also works wonderfully over grilled vegetables!
Can These Sliders Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cowboy butter and cook the steak in advance. Just store the sauce in the fridge and the steak wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat the steak and assemble the sliders right before serving for the best taste!
