We were skeptical about using an air fryer for steak, but then we tried it. Boy, were we surprised!
These crispy, juicy ribeye steaks came out perfect, with a caramelized sear and a tender, medium-rare interior, the ribeye being a well-marbled cut from the beef rib primal that's ideal for high-heat searing.
One of us even used this recipe for a last-minute dinner party. The best part?
It only took 25 minutes from start to finish. Less time cooking means more time feasting.
Let's admit it, we've become a bit obsessed with this method.
If you're looking for an easy steak recipe that delivers every single time, you're in the right place. Get your air fryer ready because this ribeye steak is about to blow your mind.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
To create this juicy steak, you'll need:
- Ribeye Steaks: Around 1-inch thick, ideally.
- Olive Oil: For brushing the steaks.
- Salt: Kosher or sea salt.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground for best flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Optional but recommended for extra depth.
- Butter: To finish the steaks after cooking.
- Fresh Herbs: Think rosemary or thyme for garnish.
Optional Marinade:
- Soy Sauce: For umami richness, using a low-sodium soy sauce helps control overall salt while keeping depth of flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: For a savory punch.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to tenderize the meat, use about 1 teaspoon per steak to gently break down muscle fibers.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Here's how to nail it every time:
- Room Temperature: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, which promotes even cooking from edge to center.
- Pat Dry: Removing excess moisture helps create that beautiful crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer: For an even cook and a quicker sear - also see tri-tip timing and temperature tips that translate well to steak.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve your desired doneness without guessing, aiming for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
Variations and Add-Ons
Change up your ribeye experience with these ideas:
- Herb-Infused Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and a smidgen of lemon zest. Slather on top after cooking.
- Steak Frites: Serve with a side of crispy air fryer fries for a classic combo - fries crisp up nicely at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: Add on top of the steak for a creamy, tangy twist, especially crumbled Gorgonzola or Roquefort for a bold, tangy finish.
Easy Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Equipment
- Air-fryer
- Meat Thermometer
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Plate (for resting)
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh herbs rosemary or thyme
Optional Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Brush both sides of the ribeye steaks with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- (Optional) If using the marinade, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice in a bowl. Marinate the steaks for 15 minutes before seasoning.
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate, covered with foil, for 5 minutes.
- Top with a pat of butter and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking for a more even cook.
- Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain juiciness without overcooking.
Nutrition
For bite-sized beef using the air fryer, try air fryer steak bites for snacking that cook quickly and brown evenly. If you prefer a lean, tender cut, the flat iron steak for weeknight meals works well in the air fryer due to its even thickness.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
