Hey friends! If you’re looking to shake up your weekly meal prep with BIG flavor and minimal effort, I’ve got just the thing: Air Fryer Steak Bites inspired by the bold, tangy, and savory flavors of Filipino bistek tagalog! This twist on a classic dish gives you tender, juicy steak cubes with that signature calamansi-soy-garlic kick and caramelized red onions—all made quick and easy in the air fryer!
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Why These Air Fryer Steak Bites Are Meal Prep GOLD:
- Quick cook time – Just 10 minutes in the air fryer and you’re done!
- Marinate in advance – Do it the night before, and all that flavor just gets better.
- Balanced macros – Lean protein, healthy fats, and low-carb friendly depending on your sides.
- Freezer-friendly – Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers and reheat when you need them.
- Budget-friendly – Cheaper than takeout and uses simple pantry staples.
- Easy portion control – Steak bites make it easy to pre-portion meals for the week.
- Filipino flavor fix – A delicious way to stay connected to heritage or explore new cuisines!
Bistek Tagalog is traditionally made with thin slices of beef simmered in soy sauce, calamansi (our tiny but mighty Filipino citrus fruit), garlic, and heaps of onions. It’s a nostalgic comfort food in many Filipino homes (mine included!). But in this version, we’re turning those same flavors into air-fried steak bites that are perfect for meal prep—still satisfying, but faster and a little lighter.
How to Meal Prep Filipino “Bistek” Steak Bites
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, stir together the garlic paste, soy sauce, calamansi juice (or lemon juice), and ground pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the steak: Place the steak cubes in a medium mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over the steak and mix to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour. This helps the steak absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Prepare for cooking: After marinating, remove the steak from the bowl and lay the pieces on a few paper towels. Gently pat them dry—this helps them brown better in the air fryer instead of steaming.
- Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Meanwhile, slice your red onion into thin rings.
- Arrange in the air fryer: Place the steak bites and onion rings in a single layer on the air fryer basket or tray. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up and prevent sticking.
- Air fry: Cook the steak and onions for 8–10 minutes total. At the halfway point (around 4–5 minutes), open the air fryer and gently shake the basket or use tongs to flip the pieces for even cooking. The steak should be browned on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the steak bites rest for a minute or two after cooking, then serve them hot with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or veggies.
Meal Prep Pairing Tips
- Pair with garlic cauliflower rice and steamed broccoli for a low-carb option.
- Serve over brown rice and top with a fried egg for a hearty lunch.
- Add to a salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and a calamansi vinaigrette.
- Serve with a refreshing slaw with jicama, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Tuck into a whole wheat wrap with fresh greens and a drizzle of Greek yogurt.
- Mix with stir-fried bell peppers for a quick rice bowl.
- Eat cold with a squeeze of lime and avocado for a quick protein-packed snack.
- Portion into bento boxes with pickled veggies for a fun meal prep twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes! Ribeye or NY strip works too—just trim the fat and cube it up.
Can I use bottled calamansi juice?
Absolutely! Look for it in Asian or Filipino markets. Lemon juice also works as a backup.
How long can I store it?
In the fridge: up to 4 days. In the freezer: up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or skillet!
Air Fryer Steak Bites (Filipino Bistek Inspired)
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
Video
Notes
Nutrition