Perfect Air Fryer Steak

The Easiest Way to Cook a Steak – In the Air Fryer!

Craving a juicy, perfectly cooked steak without firing up the grill or dealing with a smoky stovetop? Air fryer steak is the ultimate solution!

This quick and easy method gives you a beautifully seared crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. With just a few simple seasonings and the magic of the air fryer, you’ll get restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Pair your air fryer steak with roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad for a perfect, protein-packed meal.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (each about 250g, 2.5cm thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Garlic Butter (Optional but Highly Recommended!):

2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
Rub olive oil over both sides of each steak.
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
Generously season the steaks on both sides with the seasoning mix.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3-5 minutes. This helps achieve a great sear on the steak.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Cook at 200°C (400°F) for:
- 8-10 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp: 52-55°C / 125-130°F)
- 10-12 minutes for medium (internal temp: 57-60°C / 135-140°F)
- 12-14 minutes for medium-well (internal temp: 63-66°C / 145-150°F)
Flip the steaks halfway through cooking to ensure even doneness.

Step 4: Rest & Add Garlic Butter

Transfer the cooked steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them extra juicy!
While the steaks are resting, mix together butter, parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
Spread the garlic butter over the warm steaks just before serving.

Step 5: Slice & Serve

Slice the steak against the grain for the most tender bites.
Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted potatoes, sautéed asparagus, or a crisp green salad!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 2 Servings)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 50g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fats: 25g
Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Air Fryer Steak

✨ Use a meat thermometer – This ensures your steak is cooked exactly how you like it.

✨ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Give the steaks enough space for even air circulation.

✨ Resting the steak is essential – Cutting too soon will cause the juices to run out, making it dry.

✨ Choose the right cut – Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work best for air frying.

✨ Experiment with seasonings – Try steak seasoning, Cajun spices, or even a coffee rub for different flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & easy – Ready in 15 minutes!
✔ Perfectly cooked every time – Thanks to air fryer technology!
✔ Healthier than pan-frying – Uses less oil but still delivers amazing flavor.
✔ Minimal cleanup – No grease splatters or stovetop mess!
✔ Great for meal prep – Cook extra steaks for easy meals later.