Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders: The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Bites

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of juicy steak, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and zesty cowboy butter, look no further than these Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders. This recipe is the ultimate indulgence, blending bold, smoky flavors with buttery, garlicky goodness, all nestled between soft, golden-brown slider buns. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or a gourmet weeknight meal, these sliders will satisfy your craving for rich, meaty deliciousness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders

✔️ Juicy & Flavorful – Perfectly grilled steak coated in cowboy butter for a rich, smoky taste. ✔️ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy prep for an impressive dish. ✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for game nights, parties, or weeknight indulgence. ✔️ Customizable – Swap out the cheese, adjust the spice level, or serve with different sides.

Ingredients

For the Sliders:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless steak (ribeye, filet, or sirloin)
• Neutral oil (as needed for grilling)
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 3 sweet onions (thinly sliced)
• 9 slider buns (brioche or potato buns work best)
• ¾ lb sliced Havarti cheese

For the Cowboy Butter:

• 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp chives (minced)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (minced)
• Kosher salt & pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Steak

1. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the steak if needed.
2. Rub the steak with neutral oil, then season generously on all sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours for optimal seasoning penetration.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter

1. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, whisking continuously.
2. Stir in lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and dry seasonings.
3. Remove from heat and mix in chives and fresh parsley.
4. Spoon out a few tablespoons to use while grilling the steaks, reserving the rest for the slider buns.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, creating an indirect heat zone.
2. Remove the steak from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Cook the steaks over direct heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring a good sear.
4. Brush both sides with cowboy butter while cooking.
5. After 5-6 minutes, move the steaks to indirect heat until they reach the desired doneness.
6. Let the steaks rest for 10 minutes, tented with foil, before slicing thinly.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a cast iron skillet on the grill over direct heat.
2. Add a few tablespoons of butter, then toss in the sliced onions.
3. Stir occasionally and cook until deep golden brown and caramelized (about 15 minutes).

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

1. Preheat the oven to broil and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Separate the slider buns and brush the inside with remaining cowboy butter.
3. Add Havarti cheese to both the top and bottom buns.
4. Spoon caramelized onions onto the bottom buns.
5. Layer slices of steak on top of the onions.
6. Broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the buns are lightly toasted.
7. Top with the other half of the slider buns, slice, and serve immediately!

Tips for the Best Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders

• Use High-Quality Steak – Ribeye, filet, or sirloin will give the best results.
• Let the Steak Rest – Allowing it to rest before slicing keeps it juicy.
• Don’t Overcook – Aim for medium-rare to medium (130-140°F) for the best texture.
• Adjust the Cowboy Butter – Like it spicier? Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Brioche or Potato Buns Work Best – They soak up the buttery goodness without getting soggy.

What to Serve with Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders

Pair these flavor-packed sliders with delicious sides:

• Crispy French Fries 🍟
• Sweet Potato Wedges 🍠
• Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob 🌽
• Creamy Coleslaw 🥬
• Side Salad with Ranch or Vinaigrette 🥗

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze steak slices separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or reheat the steak in a skillet with cowboy butter for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I cook the steak in a skillet instead of grilling?

Yes! Use a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with avocado oil and follow the same cooking process.

2. What other cheeses work well?

Try provolone, gouda, Swiss, or white cheddar for delicious variations.

3. Can I make the cowboy butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.

4. What’s the best way to slice steak for sliders?

Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

5. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Add extra cayenne, red pepper flakes, or even a few dashes of hot sauce.

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Final Thoughts

These Cowboy Butter Steak Sliders are an absolute showstopper! Juicy, tender steak layered with caramelized onions, melty cheese, and buttery, garlicky cowboy butter, all nestled in soft, toasted slider buns.

This flavor-packed recipe is perfect for any BBQ, game night, or indulgent meal. Try them out and get ready for a taste of bold, buttery, steak-filled perfection! 🍔🔥🥩