1. Prepare the Steaks
Begin by patting the steaks dry with paper towels. Drying the steaks ensures a better sear and helps the seasoning stick. Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then generously season with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and garlic powder. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and helps the steaks cook more evenly.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating is crucial to achieve that beautifully seared crust on the steaks.
3. Cook the Steaks
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook the steaks at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through the cooking time. If you prefer a different doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly:
- Rare: 8-9 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 10-12 minutes
- Medium: 12-14 minutes
- Well-Done: 14-16 minutes
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the steaks are cooking, prepare the garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and well combined. You can also shape the butter into a log and refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up if desired.
5. Rest the Steaks
Once the steaks are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
6. Top with Garlic Butter
Generously top each steak with a dollop of garlic butter. As the butter melts, it will create a luscious, garlicky sauce that enhances the flavor of the steak. If you made the butter log, you can slice it into medallions and place them on the steaks.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Steak
- Choose Quality Meat: The quality of the steak will greatly impact the final result. Ribeye and sirloin are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite cut.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Resting the steak after cooking is essential for a juicy, tender bite.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe uses a simple seasoning mix, you can customize it with your favorite spices or herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chili flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer steak with garlic butter is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or baby carrots for a healthy and flavorful side.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious garlic butter.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
- Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra garlic butter on your plate.
Conclusion
Air fryer steak with garlic butter is a simple yet indulgent meal that delivers on flavor and texture. The air fryer ensures a perfectly seared exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Topped with rich, fragrant garlic butter, this steak is nothing short of a culinary delight. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Share your tips, variations, and what you served alongside your steak. Bon appétit!