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The Ultimate Juicy Air Fryer Steak: Perfect Results Every Time (Includes Doneness Guide)

Two thick cuts of medium-rare air fryer steak showing a juicy pink center and dark sear on a white plate.
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Learn how to cook steak in the air fryer for a tender, juicy result with a crispy crust. This easy air fryer steak recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight steak dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (1-inch thick) steaks (Ribeye or Sirloin recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for basting)
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional, for basting)
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for basting)

Instructions

  1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Pat them completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispy crust.
  2. Rub both sides of the steaks evenly with olive oil.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the steaks generously on all sides with this simple steak seasoning for air fryer.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes.
  5. Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook for 6 minutes. Flip the steaks.
  7. Continue cooking, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for your desired doneness (see guide below). For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C). Total cook time is usually 10–14 minutes depending on thickness.
  8. For added flavor, place the butter, smashed garlic, and herbs on top of the steaks during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Baste the melting butter over the steak if possible.
  9. Remove the steaks from the air fryer immediately when they reach 5 degrees below your target temperature.
  10. Let the steaks rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This step is crucial for a tender steak air fryer result.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: Rare (125°F), Medium-Rare (130–135°F), Medium (135–140°F), Medium-Well (145–150°F).
  • For steak bites, cut the steak into 1-inch cubes before seasoning and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • If your steaks are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to reduce the temperature slightly to 380°F (195°C) to prevent the outside from burning before the center cooks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/air-fryer-steak-juicy-perfect-results/