I’ll walk you through a recipe inspired by Arby’s Steak Nuggets, complete with tips and tricks to recreate that same rich, smoky flavor from the comfort of your kitchen.
Table of Contents
How to make Arby’s Steak Nuggets
Arby’s Steak Nuggets are bite-sized pieces of Arby’s signature steak — made from 100% real steak, cut into chunks, seasoned, and cooked to achieve a tender, juicy interior with a lightly crispy outer layer.
Ingredients
For the Steak Nuggets:
- 1 pound of steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin work best for tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that signature smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a savory, umami depth)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added saltiness and flavor)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for light coating)
For the BBQ Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Steak
- Choose the right cut: Start with a tender steak, such as sirloin or ribeye. Trim off any excess fat and cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Keep the size consistent for even cooking.
- Marinate the steak: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to create a marinade, then add the steak cubes. Toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Coat the Steak Nuggets
- After marinating, gently pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures the nuggets brown nicely.
- Lightly coat each cube in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This creates a crispy outer layer while sealing in the steak’s juices.
Step 3: Cook the Steak Nuggets
Pan-Frying Method:
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom.
- Once the oil is hot, add the steak nuggets in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the nuggets are browned and slightly crispy on the outside but still tender inside. Aim for medium to medium-rare for the juiciest results.
- Remove the nuggets from the pan and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Air Fryer Method (Healthier Alternative):
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated steak nuggets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Check for desired doneness.
Grilling Option:
- If you prefer a smoky grill flavor, cook the cornstarch-coated nuggets on a preheated grill at medium-high heat. Place them on skewers for easy handling and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Stir well and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. Serve alongside the nuggets for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Steak: Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye mimic the soft texture of Arby’s Steak Nuggets best. Avoid tough, lean cuts, as they can become chewy.
- Marinate for Flavor: Don’t skip the marination step—this infuses the steak with seasoning while keeping it juicy.
- Don’t Overcook: Steak nuggets taste best when they’re tender and juicy. Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness (internal temperature of 135–145°F).
- Customize the Smoky Flavor: If you want more of a smoky essence, you can also add a splash of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Pair with Sides: For an authentic Arby ’s-style experience, serve the steak nuggets with mac and cheese or a simple side salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate and freeze the coated nuggets for up to 1 month. Thaw and cook when ready.
What to serve with
Arby’s Steak Nuggets are the star of the show, but even the best dishes shine brighter when paired with the right sides and accompaniments.
a. Crispy French Fries
Why it works: Thin, crispy French fries are a no-brainer pairing for steak nuggets. The crunchiness contrasts beautifully with the tender, smoky Arby’s Steak Nuggets, while the salty flavors balance each other perfectly.
How to make at home: Deep fry or air-fry freshly cut potato sticks—season with salt or seasoned salt for extra flavor.
b. Potato Wedges
Why it works: A heartier alternative to fries, potato wedges bring soft, fluffy interiors with a lightly crisp exterior seasoned with garlic and paprika.
Recipe suggestion: Toss wedges in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt before roasting or air-frying.
c. Onion Rings
Why it works: Onion rings add a sweet, tangy, and crispy element to the meal. The caramelized onions pair well with the smoky meatiness of the Arby’s Steak Nuggets.
Dipping idea: Pair with ranch or BBQ sauce to complete the experience.
Ingredients Substitutes
Sometimes, we don’t have everything on hand, or we want to tweak a recipe to fit dietary needs, preferences, or ingredients available in our pantry. If you’re attempting to bring the magic of Arby’s Steak Nuggets to life in your home kitchen but need alternatives for some ingredients, I’ve got you covered!
1. Steak Substitutes
The star of this dish is the steak, but if you’re unable to find the recommended cuts—or if you’re experimenting with other proteins—here are alternatives:
Replace Sirloin or Ribeye with:
- Flank Steak or Skirt Steak: These cuts are flavorful and work well when marinated thoroughly, but they may be slightly chewier than tender cuts like ribeye or tenderloin. Slice them thin and against the grain for better tenderness.
- Chuck Steak: A budget-friendly option that works well when properly marinated to lock in flavor. It’s a bit less tender but still delivers a beefy flavor.
- Strip Steak or New York Strip: A lean but tender alternative that is great for this recipe.
For a Budget-Friendly Swap
- Ground Beef (as Meatballs): If steak is outside your budget, form small meatballs using ground beef. Marinate and coat them similarly to steak cubes. While the texture will differ, the flavors will still satisfy your craving for hearty, savory bites.
Non-Beef Protein Alternatives
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: If you don’t eat red meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work beautifully. Cut them into nugget-sized pieces and follow the same marinade and steps.
- Pork Tenderloin: This mild yet tender cut provides a texture similar to steak cubes. It’s ideal if you prefer pork over beef.
- Firm Tofu or Seitan (Vegetarian Option): For plant-based eaters, firm tofu or seitan can mimic the meaty bites well. Press tofu to remove excess water, then marinate and coat the cubes the same way as steak. Use the air fryer, skillet, or oven for cooking.
2. Oil Substitutes
The recipe calls for olive oil or vegetable oil in the marinade and for cooking. If you don’t have those or want alternatives, consider:
- Avocado Oil: A great choice for high-heat cooking, it’s neutral in flavor and heats evenly.
- Canola Oil or Sunflower Oil: Neutral and budget-friendly, these are excellent for frying or pan-searing.
- Coconut Oil: If you don’t mind a slight coconut aroma, this works well in high-heat cooking.
- Butter or Ghee: For extra richness, you can use melted butter or ghee for pan-frying, but be careful to keep the heat lower to prevent burning.
3. Cornstarch Substitutes
Cornstarch is used to create a light, crispy coating on the steak nuggets. If you run out of cornstarch, try these alternatives:
- All-Purpose Flour: While not as light as cornstarch, it crisps up well and can be seasoned for flavor.
- Rice Flour (Gluten-Free): This is a fantastic lightweight option that yields a crispy crust.
- Potato Starch: A close substitute for cornstarch, potato starch also provides a crisp coating.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: If you want a crunchier coating, panko breadcrumbs work well. Lightly press them onto the nuggets for a crusty exterior.
4. Worcestershire Sauce Substitutes
Worcestershire sauce brings a tangy, savory, umami kick to the marinade. If you don’t have it, try these:
- Soy Sauce: A direct replacement that carries the same salty umami flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy depth to the marinade. Mix it with a small amount of soy sauce for a closer match.
- Coconut Aminos: A soy-free alternative that mimics Worcestershire in flavor but is slightly sweeter.
- Fish Sauce: Strong and savory, you can add a few drops for the umami factor.
5. Soy Sauce Substitutes
Soy sauce brings a salty, savory depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding soy or don’t have it on hand, here are replacements:
- Tamari Sauce (Gluten-Free): A soy-based sauce that is darker and slightly less salty, perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Coconut Aminos: A flavorful, low-sodium alternative to soy sauce that’s made from coconut sap.
- Miso Paste (Mixed with Water): A spoonful of miso paste mixed with water creates a similar umami flavor.
6. Smoked Paprika Substitutes
Smoked paprika is essential for the smoky flavor of Arby’s Steak Nuggets. If you’re out of it:
- Regular Paprika + Liquid Smoke: Mix sweet paprika with a few drops of liquid smoke to capture the smokiness.
- Chipotle Powder: This adds smokiness and a slight heat, so use sparingly.
- Cumin: While not smoky, cumin offers earthy flavors that complement the beefy nuggets.
7. Garlic Powder & Onion Powder Substitutes
Garlic and onion powder are used to boost the flavor of the nuggets. If you don’t have them, try the following:
- Fresh Garlic/Onion: Finely mince and mix into the marinade. Use about 1 teaspoon of fresh garlic or onion for every 1/2 teaspoon of powdered spice.
- Shallots or Scallions: Mild and aromatic, these work great as fresh substitutes.
8. Cayenne Pepper Substitutes
Cayenne pepper provides a subtle heat to the nuggets. You can skip it if you prefer mild flavors or replace it with:
- Chili Powder: A milder option with additional depth.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds heat and texture but use sparingly.
- Black Pepper (Extra): For a touch of spice that isn’t as overwhelming as cayenne.
9. BBQ Dipping Sauce Substitutes
The BBQ sauce served with the nuggets can be swapped with various alternatives based on your preferences:
- Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, it complements the smoky nuggets well.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Adds a creamy yet spicy option for heat lovers.
- Chipotle Sauce: Smoky and spicy, this pairs beautifully with the steak nuggets.
- Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy, it balances the richness of the nuggets.
Final Thoughts
By following this recipe, you can recreate the magic of Arby’s Steak Nuggets in your own kitchen.
More Arby’s Recipes:
Ingredients
For the Steak Nuggets:
- 1 pound of steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauceÂ
- 1 tablespoon soy sauceÂ
- 1/4 cup cornstarchÂ
For the BBQ Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprikaÂ
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Steak
- Choose the right cut: Start with a tender steak, such as sirloin or ribeye. Trim off any excess fat and cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Keep the size consistent for even cooking.
- Marinate the steak: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to create a marinade, then add the steak cubes. Toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Coat the Steak Nuggets
- After marinating, gently pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures the nuggets brown nicely.
- Lightly coat each cube in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This creates a crispy outer layer while sealing in the steak’s juices.
Step 3: Cook the Steak Nuggets
Pan-Frying Method:
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom.
- Once the oil is hot, add the steak nuggets in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the nuggets are browned and slightly crispy on the outside but still tender inside. Aim for medium to medium-rare for the juiciest results.
- Remove the nuggets from the pan and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Air Fryer Method (Healthier Alternative):
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated steak nuggets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Check for desired doneness.
Grilling Option:
- If you prefer a smoky grill flavor, cook the cornstarch-coated nuggets on a preheated grill at medium-high heat. Place them on skewers for easy handling and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Stir well and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. Serve alongside the nuggets for dipping.
