If you are craving a steak that is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, let me introduce you to the ultimate indulgence: the Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe. This dish strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, delivering a tender ribeye cooked to perfection in the air fryer, then crowned with a rich, garlicky butter that elevates every bite. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe is a game-changer that transforms a classic steak night into an effortlessly gourmet experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to highlight the robust flavor of the ribeye while adding depth and aroma. These essential components come together to create a steak that is savory, buttery, and packed with texture and color.
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (1 to 1.25 inches thick): The star of the dish, known for its marbling and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and gives a nice crust when air frying.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the steak’s natural flavors and aids in forming a delicious crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the beefiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Creates a rich and creamy garlic butter topping.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Provides fresh, aromatic garlic punch in the butter.
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh herbaceous note and vibrant color.
- Optional lemon wedges: A bright, tangy touch to brighten the richness of the steak.
How to Make Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Steaks
The first step is all about getting your ribeye ready to shine. Patting the steaks dry with paper towels ensures a better sear. Next, rub both sides of each steak with the olive oil; this not only promotes even seasoning adhesion but helps develop that irresistible crust. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to layer in foundational flavors. This is your steak’s first moment to soak up what makes it outstanding.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3 to 5 minutes to create the ideal hot environment for quickly cooking the steak. A properly heated air fryer gives the steak a beautifully seared exterior while locking in the juices, which is what makes this method a time-saving superstar.
Step 3: Cook the Ribeye
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket without overlapping—space is essential to ensure even air circulation and cooking. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes total, flipping halfway through. If you like your steak medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F; for medium, target 140°F. This approach delivers a steak that’s perfectly cooked to your taste every single time.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the steaks are sizzling away, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley in a small bowl. This simple garlic butter is what takes the steak from excellent to unforgettable. The creamy texture combined with bursts of fresh garlic and herbaceous parsley creates a luscious topping that melts beautifully on hot steak.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
As soon as the steaks come out of the air fryer, let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Then, generously spoon the garlic butter over the steaks while they are still hot, watching it melt into those perfect air-fried edges. Serve with optional lemon wedges for a fresh zing if you like.
How to Serve Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet elegant garnishes can transform this dish visually and flavor-wise. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the plate but also adds a pop of herby freshness. Lemon wedges offer a lovely acidic contrast that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter, providing balance with every squeeze.
Side Dishes
Pair this Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complement the steak beautifully. For low-carb lovers, buttery sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli make excellent, flavor-packed companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, place the rested steak on a wooden cutting board and dollop with garlic butter. Scatter some chopped fresh herbs around the plate and drizzle a little olive oil for extra shine. For a rustic vibe, serve alongside roasted baby potatoes tossed in rosemary. These small touches elevate home dining into a special occasion effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover ribeye steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 3 days to maintain the optimal texture and flavor. Keep the garlic butter separate if possible, and add it fresh when reheating for the best taste.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked ribeye steaks, but note that texture may slightly change upon thawing. Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle reheating later.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid microwaving as it can dry out the steak. Instead, warm gently in a low oven or in a covered skillet on low heat. Add a fresh dollop of garlic butter on top to restore moisture and richness just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe?
Yes! While ribeye is fantastic for its marbling and tenderness, you can use other cuts like sirloin or strip steak. Just adjust the cooking time according to thickness and preferred doneness.
How do I know when the steak is done without a thermometer?
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, use the touch test to gauge doneness: press the steak gently with your finger—soft and squishy means rare, while firmer flesh signals medium to well-done.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Garlic butter can be prepared a few hours or even a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving so it melts beautifully over the steak.
Is the Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for keto and low-carb diets since it focuses on high-quality protein and healthy fats with zero carbs from the seasonings and butter.
What temperature should I set my air fryer for this recipe?
The ideal temperature is 400°F. This high heat sears the steak quickly, locking in juices while creating that gorgeous crust.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe enough if you want a quick, satisfying, and downright delicious meal. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and flavor that makes steak night something to look forward to any day of the week. So gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and treat yourself to a juicy, buttery steak experience that feels like a special occasion at home.
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Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak with a rich, flavorful garlic butter topping. The air fryer cooks the steak to your desired doneness with a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Enhanced by a savory garlic and parsley butter, this recipe is perfect for an easy, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (1 to 1.25 inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the ribeye steaks dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub both sides of each steak with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat it for 3–5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Steaks: Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the steaks cook, combine the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Mix well to create the garlic butter.
- Rest the Steaks: Once cooking is complete, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
- Serve: Top each steak with a generous spoonful of garlic butter. Serve immediately, optionally adding lemon wedges for a fresh citrus touch.
Notes
- Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is essential to retain its juices and maximize tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences, and optionally add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cooking times can vary depending on steak thickness and your specific air fryer model, so use a meat thermometer for best results.
