Air Fryer Steak Recipe

Air Fryer Steak Recipe delivers juicy, tender results with crispy edges—perfect for fast weeknight dinners or effortless gourmet meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients to let the quality and flavor of your steak truly shine. Each ingredient has its own little magic to bring out the ultimate taste, texture, and color in this Air Fryer Steak.

• 2 boneless steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or NY strip): Choose your favorite cut, aim for about 1 inch thick for the juiciest results.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Makes the steak’s exterior perfectly golden and helps the seasoning stick.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings depth and enhances that classic, beefy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a warm, subtle heat for balanced flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives the steak a savory, aromatic boost that pairs so well with beef.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): The base for a rich, melty herb butter finish.
• 1 clove garlic (minced): For a fresh, bold punch right in the butter.
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (finely chopped): Adds a pop of color and a touch of herbaceous brightness.

How to Make Air Fryer Steak

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Kick things off by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This step is key for getting a beautifully caramelized crust and ensures the steak starts sizzling as soon as it hits the basket. Don’t skip it—high heat is your secret weapon!

Step 2: Prep and Season the Steaks

Pat your steaks thoroughly dry with paper towels (moisture is the enemy of a good sear!). Rub both sides with olive oil, then shower them with the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the seasonings coat every nook and cranny for the most flavorful Air Fryer Steak.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Lay the steaks in your air fryer basket in a single layer; give them some breathing room for even cooking. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, making sure to flip halfway through—this helps develop that crave-worthy crust on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check for your perfect doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

While the steak cooks, mix up your softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley in a small bowl. Just a quick stir brings together the most luxurious, aromatic finish—trust me, this is what takes your Air Fryer Steak over the top!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

As soon as the steaks come out, top them generously with the garlic herb butter. Let them rest for 5 minutes so those buttery juices melt into the meat and every slice is mouthwateringly tender. Now you’re ready to savor every bite!

How to Serve Air Fryer Steak

Garnishes

Give your steak a gourmet touch with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, extra parsley, or even a crack of fresh black pepper over the melted butter. A squeeze of lemon can work wonders too, brightening up those rich, savory flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve this Air Fryer Steak alongside classic steakhouse sides like roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Steamed asparagus, buttered green beans, or a batch of garlic bread are also heavenly pairings that round out the meal with comfort and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the steak and fan it out on a wooden board with the garlic herb butter melting over the top. Add a mix of grilled veggies, a ramekin of chimichurri, or even pile slices onto a hearty toasted baguette for an unforgettable steak sandwich. There’s no wrong way to make this Air Fryer Steak the star of your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra steak, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool fully before sealing to keep it juicy and delicious when you revisit those leftovers.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled steak slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep its quality for up to 2 months—just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To gently warm up your Air Fryer Steak without drying it out, pop slices in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F, or cover and microwave in short bursts. Add a fresh pat of herb butter on top to recapture some of that original magic!

FAQs

Can I use frozen steak in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook steak from frozen in the air fryer, but for best texture and even cooking, it’s a good idea to thaw the steak overnight in the fridge first. If cooking from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cook time and season well—no need to skip the garlic herb butter!

What steak cuts work best for Air Fryer Steak?

Ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip all work wonderfully in the air fryer. Look for boneless cuts about one inch thick for the perfect balance of seared crust and juicy center.

How do I know when my steak is done?

A meat thermometer is your best friend. For rare, shoot for 125°F; medium-rare, 135°F; and medium, 145°F. Remember, the temperature will rise slightly as the steak rests, so pull it out just before it’s exactly where you want it.

Can I double the recipe for more servings?

The air fryer works best when the steaks aren’t crowded—this ensures proper air flow and even cooking. If making more than two steaks, cook them in batches for best results and keep finished steaks warm under foil while you finish the rest.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley for the butter?

No worries! You can swap in dried parsley or skip it entirely. Chives, tarragon, or even a little fresh thyme add their own delicious twist to the herb butter. The Air Fryer Steak will still be absolutely delicious and crowd-pleasing.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Steak is proof that you don’t need a fancy grill or hours in the kitchen to make a meal worth celebrating. It’s a go-to for weeknights, date nights, or anytime you crave big flavor without the hassle. Try it once, and you just might find yourself making steak a regular weeknight treat!

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