Juicy Air Fryer Steak (Quick & Easy)

If you’ve ever wondered how to cook the perfect steak in the air fryer, this is the method you need. It delivers a beautifully seared crust on the outside and a tender, juicy center every single time — no grill required.

The air fryer isn’t just for crispy snacks. Once you try steak cooked this way, you’ll be amazed at how simple and reliable it is. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special date-night meal at home, this recipe makes steak effortless.

Top it with homemade garlic butter that melts right over the hot steak for restaurant-quality flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy — ready in under 20 minutes
• Perfectly juicy and tender
• Minimal ingredients
• Great for beginners
• Works with different steak cuts

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Ingredients

For the Steak

• 2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each, about 1-inch thick)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Butter

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Cook Steak in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until fully combined.

Spoon the mixture onto parchment paper, roll into a log, and refrigerate until firm. This can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.

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Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Remove steaks from the refrigerator and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Let them rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps the steak cook evenly.

After resting, pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps create a better crust.

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Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Preheating is important — it ensures even cooking and a great sear.

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Step 4: Cook the Steak

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.

Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.

Cooking time may vary depending on thickness and desired doneness.

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Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. Cover loosely with foil while resting.

Top with slices of garlic butter and let it melt over the hot steak. Serve immediately.

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Steak Doneness Guide

Use an instant-read thermometer for best results:

• 125°F (52°C) – Rare (cool red center)
• 135°F (57°C) – Medium-Rare (warm red center)
• 145°F (63°C) – Medium (warm pink center)
• 150°F (66°C) – Medium-Well (slightly pink center)
• 160°F+ (71°C) – Well-Done (brown throughout)

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Best Cuts for Air Fryer Steak

This method works beautifully with:

• Ribeye
• Filet mignon
• New York strip
• Skirt steak
• Beef tenderloin

Just adjust cooking time depending on thickness.

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Can You Marinate the Steak?

Absolutely. While salt and pepper create a classic steakhouse flavor, you can marinate the steak for extra depth.

• Marinate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours).
• Let steak return to room temperature before air frying.

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What to Serve with Steak

Pair your air fryer steak with:

• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Garlic herb mushrooms
• Roasted vegetables
• Air fryer sweet potatoes
• Green beans
• Carrot soufflé

Perfect for date night or a comforting family dinner.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steak

• Always bring steak to room temperature before cooking.
• Preheat the air fryer for best results.
• Use a thermometer — guessing leads to overcooking.
• Let the steak rest before slicing to keep juices inside.
• Garlic butter can be stored in the fridge for 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.