I love a good steak night, and nothing excites me more than a juicy ribeye cooked just right. For years, I thought the only way to achieve that perfect balance of a crisp crust and tender center was with a cast iron skillet or a blazing hot grill. But after experimenting with my air fryer, I realized it delivers the same steakhouse-quality results with even less fuss—and I don’t have to deal with a smoky kitchen.
Cooking a ribeye in the air fryer feels like a little kitchen secret. The hot circulating air creates that golden, flavorful crust while locking in all the rich juices. It’s fast, consistent, and foolproof, which means I can enjoy restaurant-style steak on a weeknight without hovering over the stove. Once you try it this way, you’ll see why this method has become one of my favorite ways to cook ribeye at home.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ribeye Steak: A ribeye is prized for its marbling, which makes it tender, juicy, and flavorful. Choose a steak that’s at least 1 to 1 ½ inches thick for the best balance between a seared crust and a juicy center.
Olive Oil: Just a light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the steak and promotes browning in the air fryer. It also adds a subtle richness to the final flavor.
Salt: A generous sprinkle of salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the ribeye. It also helps draw out surface moisture, creating a better crust during cooking.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bold, slightly spicy kick that balances beautifully with the ribeye’s buttery taste.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives the steak an extra savory layer without overpowering its natural flavors. It’s a quick way to elevate the seasoning.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Rosemary or thyme can be added for a more aromatic finish. Toss a sprig in the basket while cooking, or sprinkle chopped herbs on top when serving.
Ingredients List
- 2 ribeye steaks (about 1–1 ½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is key for a crisp, golden crust. Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly over both sides of the ribeye. If using fresh herbs, you can add them at this stage or later during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. A hot basket ensures the steak begins searing immediately, locking in juices.
Step 4: Cook the Ribeye
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space around each piece. Cook for 8–10 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust cooking time depending on your preferred doneness and steak thickness.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a more tender and flavorful bite.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Always pat the steak dry before seasoning—it’s the secret to a beautiful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; good air circulation is what gives you that seared finish.
- Experiment with seasonings—paprika, onion powder, or steak rubs work beautifully.
- For extra richness, add a pat of butter on top of the steak while it rests.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ribeye in the air fryer?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first. A frozen steak won’t cook as evenly, and you’ll miss out on that perfect crust.
Do I need to marinate the steak beforehand?
Not at all. Ribeye is flavorful enough on its own, but you can marinate it if you’d like a different flavor profile.
What should I serve with air fryer ribeye steak?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad pair beautifully with this recipe.
Can I cook more than one steak at a time?
Yes, as long as they fit in the basket without overlapping. Airflow is crucial for an even cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes.