Name: Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders: The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, or your favorite cut for sliders (flank steak or ribeye also work well); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 12 slider buns, split; 4 ounces provolone cheese, sliced (or your favorite cheese); Optional toppings: caramelized onions, arugula, sliced tomatoes

Introduction

Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are the perfect blend of rich, buttery flavor and tender, juicy steak in bite-sized form. These sliders make an irresistible appetizer or a satisfying meal that’s packed with bold herbs and spices. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

The image shows a close-up of a sandwich with three main layers inside a toasted golden brown bun. The bottom layer is a thick, well-seared piece of steak with a charred, dark crust. On top of the steak, there is a generous layer of creamy yellow sauce mixed with green herbs, dripping slightly down the sides. Above the sauce sits another thick cut of medium-rare steak, pinkish inside and seared on the outside. The top bun is slightly shiny and toasted, and underneath it, there are fresh green leaves adding a fresh touch. The sandwich is placed on a wooden surface with pieces of herbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1.5 pounds sirloin steak, or your favorite cut for sliders (flank steak or ribeye also work well)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

12 slider buns, split

4 ounces provolone cheese, sliced (or your favorite cheese)

Optional toppings: caramelized onions, arugula, sliced tomatoes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cowboy Butter by combining softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and onion powder in a medium bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes if time allows.

Step 2: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, then sprinkle this seasoning generously over both sides of the steak.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook longer if you prefer. Use a meat thermometer to check for your desired doneness.

Step 4: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for at least 10 minutes, tented loosely with foil. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Lightly toast the slider buns. Spread a generous amount of Cowboy Butter on both halves of each bun. Place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half, then top with sliced steak and any optional toppings you like. Add another dollop of Cowboy Butter on top of the steak if desired, then close the slider with the top bun.

Step 6: Serve the sliders immediately while warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, let the Cowboy Butter soften slightly before spreading to release its aromas.

Substitute provolone with cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese to customize the sliders.

Try adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for a savory boost.

Use ribeye or flank steak if you prefer more marbling or a leaner cut.

If you like it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.

Storage

Store leftover sliders covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve the steak’s tenderness and melting cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy buns. You can also prepare the Cowboy Butter ahead and keep it refrigerated for up to one week.

FAQs

Can I make the Cowboy Butter ahead of time?

Yes, the Cowboy Butter can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading.

What’s the best steak cut for these sliders?

Sirloin is a great all-around choice for these sliders, but flank steak or ribeye also work well depending on your preference for tenderness and flavor. Just slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.