Cooking steak at home often feels intimidating, but Air Fryer Steaks with Garlic Butter completely change the game. With precise heat circulation and minimal effort, the air fryer delivers juicy, tender steak with a beautifully seared exterior—no grill, no cast iron pan, and no guesswork required.

This method is ideal for anyone who wants restaurant-quality steak without smoke-filled kitchens or complicated techniques. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a flavorful crust, and the garlic butter adds richness that melts straight into the meat.

Whether you’re cooking ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip, this easy steak recipe air fryer style delivers consistent results every time.

Why Air Fryer Steaks Work So Well

The air fryer cooks steak using rapid hot air circulation, ensuring even cooking on all sides. Unlike stovetop cooking, there’s no need to constantly flip or monitor temperature closely. The steak cooks evenly, stays juicy, and develops a natural crust from high heat.

Adding garlic butter after cooking enhances flavor without burning the garlic. As the butter melts, it seeps into the steak fibers, creating an indulgent finish that rivals steakhouse dishes.

This juicy air fryer steak method is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Best Cuts for Air Fryer Steak

Ribeye – rich, juicy, and flavorful
New York strip – balanced tenderness and bite
Sirloin – leaner but still tender
Filet mignon – ultra-tender and elegant

Choose steaks at least 1–1½ inches thick for best results.

Ingredients

2 steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or strip), 1–1½ inches thick
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Remove steaks from refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Pat steaks dry with paper towels.
Rub steaks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place steaks in air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
Remove steaks and let rest for 5 minutes.
Mix butter, minced garlic, and parsley in a small bowl.
Top hot steaks with garlic butter and let melt.
Serve immediately.

Doneness Guide

Rare: 6–7 minutes
Medium-rare: 7–8 minutes
Medium: 8–9 minutes
Medium-well: 9–10 minutes

Resting the steak is essential to retain juices.

Flavor and Texture Experience

The exterior develops a beautiful crust, while the interior stays tender and juicy. Garlic butter melts instantly, coating the steak with rich, savory flavor. Each bite balances salt, fat, and beefiness perfectly.

This garlic butter steak feels indulgent yet effortless.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steak

Always preheat the air fryer
Avoid overcrowding the basket
Let steak rest before slicing
Use a meat thermometer for precision
Finish with butter after cooking, not during

Variations to Try

Add rosemary or thyme to garlic butter
Use compound butter with chili flakes
Finish with flaky sea salt
Add lemon zest for brightness
Pair with peppercorn sauce

This air fryer ribeye steak method adapts easily to flavor preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, fries, or a fresh salad. These steaks also pair well with garlic bread or sautéed mushrooms.

For a low-carb option, serve with grilled asparagus or cauliflower mash.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F to avoid overcooking.

Why This Recipe Is a Go-To Favorite

Fast, reliable, and incredibly flavorful, air fryer steaks make steak night accessible any day of the week. Minimal cleanup, consistent results, and rich garlic butter flavor make this recipe a standout.