Air Fryer Steak
A juicy, tender steak with a perfect crust, made effortlessly in the air fryer. Minimal mess, maximum flavor — this recipe brings restaurant vibes straight to your kitchen on a weeknight.
Ingredients
Air Fryer Steak Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks about 1-inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional, but yum
Optional Decorations
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
- Garlic cloves for extra aroma
- Butter for finishing
Instructions
Prep Your Steak
- Pat your steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub them with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. I literally gave mine a little pep talk: “You’re about to be amazing.”
Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot air fryer = perfectly seared edges and juicy center.
Cook the Steak
- Place the steaks in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 10–12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust time if your steaks are thicker or thinner. The smell here? Insane. I had to take a deep breath like, “Yep, dinner is happening.”
Rest & Finish
- Transfer steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. Optional: top with a pat of butter or fresh herbs for that extra cozy, restaurant-level vibe.
Serve & Savor
- Slice against the grain and admire your masterpiece. Grab a fork, take that first bite, and let yourself feel proud.
Notes
- Let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking — trust me, it keeps the juices locked in.
- Thickness matters: thicker steaks need a minute or two more, thinner ones cook faster.
- Adjust seasoning to your mood — smoked paprika adds depth, while cayenne gives a spicy kick.
- Don’t skip patting your steak dry before seasoning; it’s the secret to that crave-worthy crust.
- Air fryers vary, so check your steak a minute or two before time is up — better safe than sorry.