Bold, sizzling, and packed with heat—Firecracker Steak Bites are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence. These spicy morsels are seared to perfection, coated in a sticky-sweet chili glaze, and impossible to stop eating. They bring restaurant-style flavor right into your kitchen with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.

Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or tucking them into tacos and rice bowls, these steak bites add explosive flavor to any dish. The fiery sauce pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef, creating a crave-worthy contrast you’ll want to make again and again.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Firecracker Steak Bites?

The best cuts for this recipe are sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip—all tender and flavorful. Avoid tougher cuts like round steak unless marinated first. Choose a cut with some marbling for optimal juiciness.

Ingredients for the Firecracker Steak Bites

1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

How To Make the Firecracker Steak Bites

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Cut steak into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Toss them in a bowl with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites in batches (to avoid crowding) for about 2 minutes per side or until browned and cooked to your liking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Firecracker Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Toss to Coat

Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes so everything melds together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

How to Serve and Store Firecracker Steak Bites

Serve these sizzling steak bites hot, straight from the skillet. They pair beautifully with jasmine rice, stir-fried noodles, or even over a simple green salad for a spicy protein punch. For a fun twist, serve them in lettuce cups or skewer them for party bites.

To store leftovers, cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave gently to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What steak can I substitute for sirloin?

Ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon all work well. Just avoid leaner cuts that may dry out quickly.

Can I make these less spicy?

Yes! Use less hot sauce or swap in a mild chili sauce. You can also skip the crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I prep these in advance?

Absolutely. You can cube and season the steak up to a day ahead. Cook and sauce them just before serving.

Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. Adjust cook time as needed.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Sear quickly over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Medium-rare to medium doneness keeps the steak juicy.

Want More Beef Appetizer Ideas?

If these Firecracker Steak Bites had your taste buds dancing, you might want to explore these other crave-worthy creations:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again whenever spice cravings hit.

And when you do make it, drop a comment and let me know—did you go full heat or keep it mild? Add your own twist? I love seeing how these recipes take on new life in your kitchens.

Need more spicy inspirations? Check out my Pinterest boards at Nina Dishes—I post fresh ideas daily!

Firecracker Steak Bites

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Firecracker Steak Bites are seared to perfection and coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet chili glaze. Whether served as a bold appetizer or a fiery dinner centerpiece, they bring the heat in all the right ways.

Instructions

1. Cut steak into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites in batches for about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 3–5 minutes.

4. Return steak bites to skillet and toss to coat. Cook 1–2 more minutes to meld flavors.

5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.