Foolproof Air Fryer Steak: Juicy, Quick Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Foolproof Air Fryer Steak recipe for a juicy, tender meal in minutes. Learn my simple tricks for perfect steak every time, even with kitchen chaos!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, High-Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Steak & Base

01 - 1.5-2 lbs ribeye or sirloin steak (about 1-inch thick)
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1-2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Seasoning Blend

04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
08 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

→ Aromatic Enhancers

09 - 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

→ Optional Sides

10 - Mashed potatoes
11 - Roasted asparagus
12 - Side salad

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, take your steak out of the fridge about 20-30 minutes before you plan to cook. This helps it cook more evenly. Pat it super dry with paper towels – this is crucial for getting a nice crust! Honestly, this is where I used to rush, and my crust suffered. Drizzle a little olive oil over both sides, then generously season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Really rub it in there. I sometimes even press it firmly to make sure it sticks. It should look like it’s wearing a beautiful spice coat!
02 - While your steak is getting comfy, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is super important, like preheating your oven! I once skipped this, thinking "it's an air fryer, it'll be fine," and the steak didn't get that initial sear I was looking for. A hot air fryer means a better crust, and we're all about that crust, right? You should feel the warmth radiate when you open it.
03 - Carefully place your seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Make sure it’s in a single layer – don’t overcrowd it, or it’ll steam instead of crisp. If you have any fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, tuck them around the steak now. Close the basket and cook for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired doneness. Listen for that beautiful sizzle! It’s the sound of deliciousness happening.
04 - After the initial cooking time, carefully open the air fryer basket and flip the steak. Place a small pat of butter on top of each steak. This butter will melt and baste the steak, adding incredible flavor and a lovely sheen. Close the basket and continue to cook for another 4-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature. This is where a meat thermometer is your best friend – seriously, don't guess! I've guessed wrong too many times.
05 - For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). Medium is 135-140°F (57-60°C), and medium-well is 140-145°F (60-63°C). Remember, the temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests. Pull it out just before it hits your target. This is a step I learned the hard way; pulling it too late means overcooked steak, and that's just sad. Don't be afraid to pull the basket out and check often.
06 - This might be the hardest part, honestly, but it’s non-negotiable! Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy bite every time. If you slice it too soon, all those delicious juices will just run out onto your board. Once rested, slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. Take a moment to appreciate that beautiful interior and the savory aroma!

# Notes:

01 - A good meat thermometer is crucial; it's the only way to get your desired doneness consistently.
02 - Never overcrowd the air fryer basket, or your steak will steam instead of sear.
03 - Always, always rest your steak after cooking. It makes all the difference in juiciness!
04 - Preheating the air fryer is essential for a good crust, don't skip it!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Air fryer
02 - meat thermometer
03 - tongs

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 2g
Protein: 45g

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