Air Fryer Steak Recipe: Master The Ultimate Steak At Home

Name: Air Fryer Steak Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick, or use sirloin, strip, or filet mignon); 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil spray); 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste); 1 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); 2 tbsp garlic herb butter (for serving)

How I Mastered the Air Fryer Steak Recipe – A Home Cook’s Story

I still remember the first time I attempted an air fryer steak recipe. It was a cold Sunday evening, and I had nothing but a frozen ribeye in the fridge, a brand-new air fryer on the counter, and zero confidence in my cooking skills. I Googled “Air Fryer Steak Recipe” in desperation, hoping for a miracle. What I found were fragmented tips, vague directions, and countless steak disasters from others. But through trial and error, seasoning blunders, and overcooked mistakes I mastered it. Now, I bring you the ultimate air fryer steak recipe that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Air Fryer Steak Recipe close-up for juicy results — Discover the perfect Air Fryer Steak Recipe, cooked to juicy perfection

Looking for inspiration? Try this high-protein summer dinner guide that pairs perfectly with steak sides.

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Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Cut for Your Air Fryer Steak Recipe

Best Steak Cuts for Air Frying

The Air Fryer Steak Recipe starts with the cut. Ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon, and sirloin work best due to their fat content and tenderness. Avoid overly thin or lean cuts, as they dry out quickly.

Thickness Matters

When following an Air Fryer Steak Recipe, aim for steaks between 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior exactly what your air fryer is built for.

Prepping the Steak for the Air Fryer

Room Temperature Is Key

A common rookie mistake in any air fryer steak recipe is skipping the rest. Bring your steak to room temperature for 20-30 minutes to promote even cooking.

Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

Raw steak on wooden board, seasoned with coarse salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

For a perfect Air Fryer Steak Recipe, season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of smoked paprika. You can even try a dry rub or marinade if you’ve got the time.

Air Fryer Steak Recipe

Discover the ultimate Air Fryer Steak Recipe that delivers juicy, tender, and perfectly seared steak every time. With simple prep, the right cut, and precise timing, you’ll master this foolproof method for restaurant-quality results at home.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 16

Resting Time 10

Total Time 30

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 2 steaks

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

Air Fryer
Tongs
Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 ribeye steaks 1 to 1.5 inches thick, or use sirloin, strip, or filet mignon
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil spray
1 tsp kosher salt or to taste
1 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional

Optional Toppings

2 tbsp garlic herb butter for serving

Instructions

Bring steaks to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Brush steaks lightly with oil and season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Place steaks in air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook according to desired doneness, flipping halfway:
- Rare: 5 min per side (125°F)
- Medium Rare: 6–7 min per side (135°F)
- Medium: 8 min per side (145°F)
- Well Done: 9–10 min per side (160°F)
Remove steaks and let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Top with garlic herb butter and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Add veggies like mushrooms or green beans to the basket for a one-pan meal.

Keyword Air Fryer, Gluten-Free, High Protein, Steak

Setting the Right Air Fryer Temperature and Time

Ideal Temperature

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This high heat allows your Air Fryer Steak Recipe to develop that gorgeous sear on the outside.

Cooking Time Based on Doneness

Here’s a quick table for reference:

Doneness	Time (per side)	Internal Temp
Rare	5 minutes	125°F
Medium Rare	6-7 minutes	135°F
Medium	8 minutes	145°F
Well Done	9-10 minutes	160°F

Use a meat thermometer to nail your air fryer steak recipe every time.

The Flip and Rest Method (Don’t Skip This!)

Flip Halfway Through

No matter the doneness, flip the steak halfway through cooking to ensure an even sear in your Air Fryer Steak Recipe.

Let It Rest

After removing your steak from the air fryer, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows juices to redistribute—essential for any air fryer steak recipe that wants rave reviews.

Air Fryer Steak Recipe Variations to Try

Garlic Butter Steak

Add a pat of herb garlic butter post-cook for a restaurant-style Air Fryer Steak Recipe.

Steak with Veggies

Toss in mushrooms, green beans, or even asparagus with olive oil in the same basket for a one-pan air fryer steak recipe twist.

Check out this air fryer green beans guide for a perfect steak side option.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Air Fryer Steak

Steak inside the air fryer halfway through cook with visible thermometer.

Skipping Preheat

A cold fryer results in a rubbery air fryer steak recipe. Always preheat.

Overcrowding

Avoid putting more than two steaks at a time. Airflow is vital in any air fryer steak recipe for that golden crust.

Don’t miss our tips on how long to cook sausages in an air fryer for mastering temperature control.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Steak

Sauces and Sides

Pair your air fryer steak recipe with chimichurri, peppercorn sauce, or even steak butter. For sides, roasted carrots or garlic potatoes are unbeatable.

Discover great ideas like crispy red potatoes in the air fryer a perfect pairing!

Make It a Meal Prep Winner

Reheat Like a Pro

Reheat leftover air fryer steak at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Always slice after reheating to retain moisture.

Store It Right

Wrap steak in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This method keeps your air fryer steak recipe fresh and ready for next-day steak tacos or salad.

Conclusion: Why This Air Fryer Steak Recipe Works Every Time

The Air Fryer Steak Recipe has become my go-to method for cooking steak, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal-prepped lunch. It’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof. From choosing the right cut to flipping at the perfect time and letting it rest, this method guarantees a juicy bite every time.

Check out these easy air fryer tips and hacks to level up your steak cooking game.