Air Fryer Steaks with Garlic Butter

Yield: 2 Servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

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Recipe Details

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Ingredients

For the Steaks:

• 2 boneless steaks, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick (Ribeye, Sirloin, or New York Strip work best)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cloves garlic, minced very finely

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• A pinch of black pepper

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Equipment

• Air Fryer

• Small bowl for mixing butter

• Plastic wrap or a small ramekin

• Tongs

• Instant-Read Thermometer (highly recommended for perfect doneness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix vigorously with a fork until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Scoop the mixture onto a small piece of plastic wrap, roll it into a log, and twist the ends to secure. Place it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up. (Alternatively, you can simply spoon it into a small ramekin and place it in the fridge).

Step 2: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature

Take your steaks out of the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a good sear instead of a steam.

Step 3: Season the Steaks

Drizzle the steaks lightly with olive oil and rub it all over the surface. Season both sides generously and evenly with the kosher salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it forms the flavor crust.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the cooking environment is immediately hot, helping to sear the steak from the moment it goes in.

Step 5: Cook to Your Desired Doneness

Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry at 400°F (200°C).

The cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your steak and your air fryer model. The times below are for a 1-inch thick steak. An instant-read thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness.

• For Rare: 8-10 minutes (120-125°F internal temp)

• For Medium Rare: 10-12 minutes (130-135°F internal temp)

• For Medium: 12-14 minutes (140-145°F internal temp)

• For Medium Well: 14-16 minutes (150-155°F internal temp)

Pro Tip: For the best sear, flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time.

Step 6: Rest the Steaks

Once the steaks have reached your desired internal temperature, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket using tongs. Transfer them to a cutting board or plate and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This is non-negotiable! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

After resting, place the steaks on serving plates. Slice two rounds of the chilled garlic butter and place one directly on top of each hot steak. The butter will melt and create a luxurious, flavorful sauce over the steak. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

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Recipe Notes & Tips

• Steak Thickness Matters: Thinner steaks will cook very quickly and are harder to get to medium-rare without overcooking. Stick to 1-inch or thicker cuts for best results.

• Don’t Crowd the Basket: Air circulation is key. If cooking more than two steaks, cook in batches to avoid steaming.

• Customize Your Butter: Feel free to add other flavors to your compound butter, such as a teaspoon of lemon zest, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or some finely chopped rosemary.

• Catch the Juices: Place a small piece of bread or a few potato slices underneath the rack in the air fryer to catch the delicious drippings.

• Storage: Leftover cooked steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 325°F for a few minutes to avoid overcooking. The garlic butter can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for several months.

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Nutrition Information

Important Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using a third-party tool and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. For the most accurate calculation, it is recommended to input your exact ingredients into a dedicated nutrition calculator.

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

This recipe is an excellent source of high-quality Protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. It is also naturally Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly. The high fat content comes primarily from the steak and butter, providing a rich source of energy. As with any rich food, it is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, so it is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.