Air Fryer Rib Eye Steak

One of the juiciest cuts of steak, in my opinion, is the delicious ribeye steak. This cut comes from the rib area of the cow and is known for its rich marbling and intense flavor. It’s a popular choice among steak lovers, and for good reason.

The ribeye steak can be prepared in many ways, but my personal favorite is grilling it to medium-rare perfection. The high heat of the grill helps to caramelize the fat within the meat, creating a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

This air fryer ribeye steak recipe takes a slightly different approach to cooking this delectable cut of meat. By air frying, you can achieve that same crispy exterior and juicy steak while also cutting down on the cooking time. Just make sure to add more time for the thicker steaks or reduce the time for a thinner steak. The best thing about this air fryer rib eye steak is that is such an easy recipe.

Need a side to go along with this delicious steak? Check out this recipe for Crispy Cauliflower Bites, Roasted Broccoli and Brussels Sprouts or these Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes.

Ingredients

Here is a quick look at what you will need. You can find the full measurements in the recipe card below.

Ribeye
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper
Butter

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

This is a quick overview of the steps. See the Recipe card below for the rest.

Step 1: Season with Salt & Pepper

Step 2: Place the steak in the air fryer basket

Step 3: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes

Variations and Substitutions

Spices – Feel free to switch up the seasoning to your liking. Some other great options are garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, fresh herbs or steak seasoning blends.
Butter – If you don’t have butter on hand, you can use olive oil or avocado oil instead of adding flavor and moisture.
Different Cuts of Steak – This recipe is versatile and can be used with different cuts of steak, such as New York strip, filet mignon, or even flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the cut.
Grilling – If you prefer to grill your steak, preheat the grill to high heat and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Make sure to let it rest before slicing.

Storage

Storage: If you do have any leftover steak, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The steak can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
Reheat: To reheat, simply place the steak in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Pro Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
For added flavor, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Instead of butter, you can also use compound butter (butter mixed with herbs and spices such as garlic butter or garlic herb butter) or herb oil to baste the steak while cooking.
Don’t skip the resting period after cooking. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed and results in a more tender and flavorful steak.
For a restaurant-style presentation, slice the steak against the grain before serving.
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the steak on a grill or in a cast
Make sure to pat your ribeye steak dry with a paper towel and season generously with sea salt and pepper.

FAQ

What is the best way to cook a steak?

The best way to cook a steak is by using an air fryer. It cooks the steak evenly and quickly, resulting in a tender and perfectly cooked piece of meat.

How do I know when the steak is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your desired level of doneness. For rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F, medium-rare 135-140°F, medium 140-145°F, or well-done 150°F or higher.

Can I marinate the steak before cooking?

To marinate the steak before cooking, you can prepare a simple marinade using ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and herbs of your choice. Place the steak in a resealable bag or a dish, pour the marinade over it, ensure the meat is coated evenly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the steak. Remember to take the steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before cooking for even results. This extra step will enhance the taste and tenderness of your steak, making it even more delicious when cooked.

Recipe Card