This air fryer steak recipe features tender cuts of beef cooked to perfection with a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious steak dinner without the need for a grill.
Using an air fryer ensures even cooking and a nice sear, while the garlic butter adds a savory flavor that enhances the natural taste of the steak.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
When it comes to preparing a delicious steak, the choice of cut is paramount. Ribeye and sirloin are popular options, each offering a unique flavor profile and tenderness.
Ribeye is known for its marbling, which contributes to its rich taste and juiciness. Sirloin, on the other hand, is leaner and offers a firmer texture, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less fatty cut.
Regardless of your choice, selecting high-quality meat will significantly enhance the overall dining experience.
Preparing the Steak
Preparation is key to achieving a perfectly cooked steak. Start by allowing the meat to come to room temperature, which helps in cooking it evenly.
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum flavor.
Creating the Garlic Butter Glaze
The garlic butter glaze is what elevates the steak to another level. Combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic finish.
This mixture not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful sheen on the steak as it melts during cooking. Set it aside while you prepare the air fryer.
Cooking the Steak in an Air Fryer
Using an air fryer is an efficient way to cook steak, providing even heat distribution and a perfect sear without the need for a grill.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal cooking conditions. Brush the seasoned steaks lightly with olive oil before placing them in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Finishing Touches
In the final minute of cooking, add a dollop of the garlic butter on top of each steak. This allows the butter to melt and soak into the meat, enhancing its flavor.
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period is essential for retaining juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
For an appetizing presentation, serve the steak on a wooden cutting board, garnished with fresh herbs. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple salad to complete the meal.
The rustic kitchen setting adds to the charm, making it an inviting dish for any occasion. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak with a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience.
Simple Garlic Butter Air Fryer Steak
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people. The air fryer cooks the steak evenly while keeping it juicy, and the garlic butter adds a delightful finish.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prep the Steaks: Take the steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and herbs (if using). Set aside.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Steaks: Brush the steaks lightly with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on your desired doneness.
- Add Garlic Butter: In the last minute of cooking, add a dollop of the garlic butter on top of each steak to melt.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional garlic butter on top.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 steaks
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 1g