Copycat Arby’s Steak Nuggets Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to make beef nuggets at home, the answer is simple: it’s all about the right cut of beef, a flavorful coating, and the right cooking method. I’ve made these countless times, and every batch still surprises me with how tender and crispy they turn out.

What Are Arby’s Steak Nuggets?

Arby’s Steak Nuggets are bite-sized pieces of steak or ground beef that are seasoned, coated, and fried (or air-fried) until golden and crisp. They’re similar to chicken nuggets but meatier, richer, and more satisfying. Think of them as mini steak bites you can pop like snacks.

I first tried them while experimenting with steak nuggets for a quick protein snack. I didn’t expect much, but that juicy center and crunchy coating hooked me instantly. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, school lunches, or even a healthy nugget bowl if you serve them with salad or rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this beef nuggets recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients:

• 500g beef (sirloin or round works best)
• ½ cup flour
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil or spray (for air fryer)

You can season it your way. Sometimes, I add chili flakes or cumin when I’m craving something bold.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Arby’s Steak Nuggets at home:

1. Cut and dry the beef. Slice it into bite-sized chunks and pat dry; moisture ruins the crisp.
2. Season the flour. Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the nuggets. Dip each piece into the flour, then into the egg-milk mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
4. Cook them your way:
   • Air Fryer: 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Deep Fryer: 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
   • Oven: 425°F for 15 minutes on a wire rack.

The best method? In my experience, air frying gives the perfect crunch without the oil overload.

Serve with a dipping sauce, I love spicy mayo or BBQ. And if you’re making a beef nugget bowl, add roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Can you store leftover beef nuggets?
Yes, but keep them crisp by using paper towels in the container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, toss them in the air fryer for 3 minutes. Don’t microwave them unless you like soggy breading (I learned that the hard way).

For meal prep, freeze coated but uncooked nuggets on a tray. Then, air fry straight from frozen, no thawing needed.

Arby’s Steak Nuggets Variations

I’ve played with this recipe in so many ways:

• Spicy Steak Nuggets: Add cayenne or chili powder to the coating.
• Masala Beef Nuggets: Mix in chaat masala for a local twist.
• Healthy Air-Fryer Version: Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs and minimal oil.
• Kids’ School Lunch: Keep seasoning light and pair with ketchup or cheese dip.

Each variation keeps the balance, juicy inside, crisp outside, exactly what makes these steak nuggets irresistible.

FAQs

Can I make beef nuggets in an air fryer?
Yes. Air frying makes them crispy without deep oil frying, just spray lightly and cook at 400°F.

What’s the best beef cut for nuggets?
Use lean cuts like sirloin, round, or tenderloin for tenderness and quick cooking.

How many calories are in beef nuggets?
A serving (5–6 nuggets) has around 300–350 calories and about 25g of protein.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely, swap flour and breadcrumbs for rice flour and crushed cornmeal.

Final Thoughts

In my kitchen, these beef nuggets are more than a snack; they’re a quick fix when I want something crispy, protein-packed, and satisfying. Whether you bake, air fry, or pan-fry them, they always hit that comfort-food spot.

So, next time you’re tempted to order out, try this homemade steak nuggets recipe from scratch; you’ll save money, eat better, and probably won’t have leftovers.