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If you’re craving a bold and irresistible bite that combines juicy steak with a buttery, garlicky kick, the Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe is exactly what your taste buds need. These sliders pack all the savory goodness of tender ribeye steak, smothered in a luxurious cowboy butter that’s bursting with fresh herbs and spices, all nestled inside soft, melty havarti cheese-lined buns. Perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or just because steak sandwiches deserve a fun upgrade, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll want to share over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for these sliders is delightfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture that dance on your palate. From the rich steak to the fresh herbs and luscious butter, every component shines through.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless steak: Ribeye, filet, or sirloin work great and provide the juicy, tender center of the sliders.
- Neutral oil (as needed): Helps season and sear the steak without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the steak perfectly and enhancing all other ingredients.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and a bit of crunch.
- 3 sweet onions (thinly sliced): Caramelized to sweet perfection, they add a rich, mellow contrast to the savory steak.
- 9 slider buns: Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holding all the goodness without getting soggy.
- 3/4 pound sliced havarti cheese: Creates that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth layer that binds everything together.
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature): The foundation of Cowboy Butter, adding richness and depth.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth and bold flavor into the butter.
- 1/2 lemon (zested and juiced): Brings a bright, tangy lift that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle kick and piquant complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky earthiness that ties the butter’s flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne: Adds subtle heat without overwhelming the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a hint of herbal freshness that complements the parsley and chives.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a lively crunch and spice contrast.
- 1 tablespoon chives (minced): Provides a mild onion note that brightens the butter.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced): Adds a fresh, green vibrancy and visual appeal.
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste): To balance and perfect your cowboy butter seasoning.
How to Make Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Season and Rest the Steaks
Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from your steak to ensure even cooking. Rub each steak generously with neutral oil, then season thoroughly on all sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If your steaks are thick, don’t be shy about adding a little extra seasoning. Wrap the steaks tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into the fridge for a few hours. This resting time allows the salt to penetrate deeply, which means more flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt your unsalted butter gently while whisking continuously to keep it smooth. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, cayenne, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Once the butter mixture is perfectly blended, remove it from heat and fold in the fresh chopped chives and parsley. Season with kosher salt and cracked pepper to taste. Scoop out a few tablespoons of this vibrant cowboy butter into a small bowl for brushing on your steak as it grills, and save the rest to slather inside the slider buns for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Steaks
Preheat your grill to medium-high, creating an indirect heat zone for finishing the steaks. Take the steaks out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature—around 30 minutes gives the best results. Place the steaks directly over the hot flames, grilling for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Keep an eye out for flambé moments; if flames flare up, move the meat to indirect heat until they calm down. While cooking, brush both sides generously with the reserved cowboy butter. After about 5 to 6 minutes, shift the steaks to the cooler side of the grill and finish cooking gently until they reach your preferred doneness. Once off the grill, wrap in foil and let them rest 10 minutes to retain all those precious juices.
Step 4: Caramelize the Onions
While the steaks rest, place a heavy cast iron skillet directly on the grill over medium heat. Add a few tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt before stirring in the thinly sliced sweet onions. Let these cook slowly for around 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become gorgeously golden, sweet, and tender. This slow caramelization process transforms the onions, balancing savory and sweet notes that perfectly complement the hearty steak and buttery buns.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil the Sliders
Preheat your oven’s broiler and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Separate your slider buns, and brush the insides lavishly with the remaining cowboy butter. Layer the bottom buns with slices of havarti cheese, then pile on the caramelized onions. Slice the rested steaks into thin strips and evenly distribute them across the buns. Add the top half of the buns, also brushed with cheese, and slide the whole tray under the broiler just long enough for the cheese to melt and bubbles to form—about 1 to 2 minutes. Once bubbly and golden, your Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Personalize your sliders with fresh garnishes like extra chopped parsley or chives to enhance the green pop of color and fresh flavor. A few pickled jalapeños can add a nice spicy tang, while a drizzle of BBQ sauce gives a smoky-sweet finish. These small touches amplify the cowboy butter’s complexity and welcome each bite with layers of interest.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a crunchy coleslaw bring delightful texture to the meal. If you want to keep it traditional, baked beans or a fresh garden salad add hearty balance. For a southern-inspired feast, consider pairing with creamy mac and cheese or grilled corn on the cob, amplifying those smoky, buttery notes throughout your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small dishes of extra cowboy butter for dipping or spreading. Wrap each slider in parchment paper for casual gatherings, making them perfect for picnics or game day. You can even offer a slider bar with assorted toppings like crispy onions, pickles, or different cheeses so everyone can customize their own unforgettable bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Store the cowboy butter separately in an airtight container to maintain its texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak or melting the cheese unevenly.
Freezing
If you want to save sliders for longer, freeze the steak strips and caramelized onions separately in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Cowboy butter freezes well too but keep it in a small container so you can thaw only what you need. Slider buns freeze best when stored without any toppings to retain their softness.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe is by using a low oven or toaster oven set at 325°F until warmed through, about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the buns tender and cheese melty without overcooking the steak. Alternatively, a quick skillet warm-up with a touch of butter on medium heat works wonders to restore that fresh-off-the-grill taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye is a favorite for its marbling and tenderness, but filet or sirloin also shine in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time based on thickness and your desired doneness.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the cowboy butter?
While cowboy butter is butter-based, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting with a high-quality plant-based butter and keeping the herbs and spices the same. The flavor will stay rich and vibrant.
How spicy is the Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe?
The recipe has a mild to medium heat level thanks to cayenne and red pepper flakes, which provide warmth without overwhelming the savory balance. You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can make the cowboy butter and caramelized onions a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Cook and slice the steak a few hours before serving, then assemble and broil the sliders fresh for best flavor and presentation.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have Havarti?
Havarti melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, but you can substitute with fontina, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella for a creamy texture and gentle taste that won’t compete with the cowboy butter.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about the combination of perfectly grilled steak, fragrant herb-infused butter, and melty cheese hugging sweet caramelized onions inside a soft slider bun. I truly encourage you to try the Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe soon; it’s a show-stopping dish that effortlessly turns an everyday meal into a savory celebration with every bite. Get ready to impress your friends, family, or just treat yourself to a new favorite classic!
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Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders Recipe
Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are a flavorful and indulgent appetizer or meal featuring juicy grilled steak, savory caramelized onions, and creamy Havarti cheese, all layered inside buttery toasted slider buns. The signature cowboy butter adds a zesty, garlicky, and herby richness that perfectly complements the tender, medium-rare ribeye steak, making these sliders a delicious treat for any occasion.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 sliders (4 servings)
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless steak such as ribeye, filet, or sirloin
- Neutral oil (as needed)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
Cowboy Butter
- 1 stick unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon chives (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced)
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
Other
- 3 sweet onions (thinly sliced)
- 9 slider buns
- 3/4 pound sliced Havarti cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Steaks: Trim any excess fat and silver skin from the steaks if necessary. Rub them with neutral oil and season all sides generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, especially if the steaks are thick.
- Seasoning Penetration: Wrap the seasoned steaks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the salt and seasoning to fully penetrate the meat.
- Make Cowboy Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, whisking constantly. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, cayenne, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and fold in the minced chives and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reserve Butter: Spoon out a few tablespoons of the cowboy butter into a small bowl to use while grilling the steaks, keeping the rest set aside for the slider buns.
- Preheat Grill: Set up your grill with a medium-high heat zone and an indirect heat zone. Remove the steaks from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Grill Steaks: Place the steaks directly over the heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, avoiding charring. If flare-ups occur, move the steaks to indirect heat until the flames diminish. Brush both sides with cowboy butter as the steaks cook.
- Finish Cooking: After a total of 5-6 minutes cooking over direct heat, transfer the steaks to indirect heat until they reach your desired doneness.
- Rest Steaks: Remove the steaks from the grill and tent loosely with foil. Allow them to rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly for sliders.
- Caramelize Onions: Place a cast iron skillet on the grill over direct heat and add a few tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
- Prepare Slider Buns: Preheat your oven to broil and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble Sliders: Separate slider buns and brush the insides generously with the reserved cowboy butter. Place slices of Havarti cheese on both the top and bottom buns, then add caramelized onions on the bottoms.
- Add Steak and Melt Cheese: Layer a few slices of grilled steak on each bottom bun. Place the assembled bottoms on the baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt.
- Finish and Serve: Top with the buttered top buns, slice the sliders if desired, and serve immediately while warm and juicy.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow steaks to sit at room temperature before grilling.
- Control grill flare-ups by moving steaks to indirect heat when flames rise.
- The cowboy butter is versatile—reserve some to enhance the flavor of the slider buns as well as for brushing the steaks.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can sear the steaks in a heavy skillet and caramelize onions on the stovetop.
- Use a cast iron skillet on the grill to properly caramelize onions and retain heat evenly.
- Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes in the butter to modify the spice level to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
