Juicy Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe

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🥩 Juicy Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe

Tender, juicy, and perfectly seared, this air fryer ribeye steak is packed with flavor and ready in under 15 minutes — no cast iron or grill needed.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2)

  • 1 ribeye steak (10–16 oz, 1–1.5 inches thick)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • Optional: 1 tsp steak seasoning or smoked paprika

Optional for Finishing:

  • 1 tbsp butter (to melt on top)

  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprig (for aroma)

  • Garlic cloves, smashed

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Bring Steak to Room Temperature:

  • Remove steak from fridge 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Preheat Air Fryer:

  • Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.

3. Season the Steak:

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels (removes excess moisture for better browning).

  2. Rub both sides with olive oil or melted butter.

  3. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any optional seasonings.

4. Air Fry the Steak:

  1. Place steak in the air fryer basket without overlapping or crowding.

  2. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) according to doneness preference:

Doneness Cook Time (flip halfway) Internal Temp
Rare 6–7 minutes 120–125°F (49–52°C)
Medium Rare 8–9 minutes 130–135°F (54–57°C)
Medium 10 minutes 140–145°F (60–63°C)
Medium Well 11–12 minutes 150–155°F (65–68°C)
Well Done 13–14 minutes 160°F+ (71°C+)

Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy.

5. Rest the Steak:

  • Transfer steak to a plate and rest for 5–10 minutes, loosely tented with foil. This allows juices to redistribute.

6. Serve:

  • Top with a pat of butter or garlic herb butter.

  • Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

🍽️ Suggested Sides:

  • Air fryer asparagus or broccoli

  • Mashed or roasted potatoes

  • Garlic butter mushrooms

  • Side salad or cauliflower mash

❓ Q&A: Juicy Air Fryer Ribeye Steak

Q: Can I cook a frozen steak in the air fryer?

A: Yes! Add 4–6 extra minutes to the total cook time and season after the first 3–4 minutes (once it’s thawed enough). For best results, thaw first.

Q: What’s the best thickness for air frying steak?

A: 1 to 1½ inches is ideal — it gives a good crust while keeping the center juicy. Thinner steaks cook too fast and may overcook.

Q: How do I prevent the steak from drying out?

A: Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking, let the steak rest after cooking, and don’t skip the butter or olive oil step before air frying.

Q: Can I add garlic and herbs?

A: Definitely! Toss in whole garlic cloves or fresh rosemary/thyme sprigs alongside the steak during cooking, or add to the butter at the end.

Q: What’s the best cut besides ribeye?

A: New York strip, filet mignon, sirloin, and flat iron also cook beautifully in the air fryer. Just adjust cook times based on thickness.

Q: Do I need to flip the steak in the air fryer?

A: Yes — flipping halfway helps get even browning on both sides, especially without a grill or skillet.

Q: Can I marinate the steak first?

A: Yes, but keep marinades oil-based and not too sugary (sugar burns in the air fryer). Pat dry before air frying for a good crust.

🥄 Pro Tips:

  • Use a thermometer: It’s the best way to nail doneness.

  • Resting is key: It keeps your steak juicy.

  • Avoid overcrowding: Cook one steak at a time for best airflow and browning.

  • Crust booster: After cooking, sear briefly in a hot skillet with butter for an extra crust (optional, but worth it).

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