Craving a mouth-watering, perfectly cooked steakhouse dinner without the hassle of a grill or a smoky kitchen? Look no further than this incredible Air Fryer Ribeye Steak recipe. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of under 20 minutes, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful ribeye that rivals your favorite restaurant’s offering, all from the convenience of your kitchen countertop.

“I was skeptical but…I’ll never grill or pan fry a steak ever again. Seriously. Why all that work when it’s so much easier AND tastier AND juicier cooked in an air fryer ????”

-Ashley

This air fryer ribeye steak recipe has become an absolute game-changer in our household. I’ve prepared it so many times that I’ve lost count! It’s our go-to for a quick, succulent steak without the need to fire up the grill, especially on busy weeknights or when the weather isn’t cooperating. The first time I suggested cooking his favorite cut of steak in the air fryer, my husband, a loyal “grill only” enthusiast, was highly skeptical. However, after just one bite of this perfectly cooked, incredibly juicy steak, he was completely won over. This recipe converted him, and now, we often make it at least once a week!

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or hosting a weekend meal with friends, this recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s incredibly fast, surprisingly easy, and effortlessly pairs with simple yet delicious sides. Imagine serving your perfectly air-fried ribeye alongside Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes, crispy Air Fryer Steak Fries, or sweet and savory Air Fryer Honey Glazed Carrots for a truly complete and unforgettable meal. The air fryer not only delivers exceptional results but also makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your culinary creation with minimal fuss.

Why Cook Ribeye Steak in an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, and steak is no exception. Here’s why it’s the superior method for cooking a ribeye:

• Unbeatable Convenience: Forget about preheating a grill, dealing with flare-ups, or splattering oil all over your stovetop. The air fryer makes steak preparation incredibly straightforward and mess-free.
• Restaurant-Quality Sear: The intense, circulating heat of the air fryer creates a beautiful, crispy crust on the outside of your ribeye, locking in all the natural juices. This coveted Maillard reaction is typically hard to achieve without high heat and specialized equipment.
• Consistent Doneness: With precise temperature control and even heat distribution, an air fryer ensures your steak cooks uniformly, allowing you to hit your preferred level of doneness every single time.
• Quick Cooking Time: A thick ribeye can be cooked to medium-rare perfection in under 15-20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a gourmet meal without the wait.
• Easy Cleanup: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, turning post-dinner cleanup into a simple task.

Ingredients You Will Need

Preparing a delicious air fryer ribeye steak requires just a few high-quality ingredients. The simplicity of this recipe truly allows the rich flavor of the ribeye to shine through.

• Ribeye Steaks – Select boneless or bone-in ribeye steaks, ideally about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness is crucial for achieving a perfect sear on the outside while maintaining a tender, juicy interior. Choose steaks with good marbling for the best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil – A light coating of olive oil (or avocado oil) helps the seasonings adhere to the steak and promotes a beautiful crisp exterior. It also helps to lock in moisture, ensuring a juicy result.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – These classic seasonings are all you truly need to enhance the natural richness of the ribeye. Don’t be shy; a generous seasoning creates a flavorful crust.

A full list of ingredients with precise measurements is included in the recipe card below.

Recipe Variations & Flavor Boosters

While a simple salt and pepper seasoning is fantastic, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize your air fryer ribeye to your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Try a Different Cut: The air fryer works wonders on various cuts of steak. Experiment with this Air Fryer New York Strip or this versatile Air Fryer Sirloin for a different experience. Each cut offers unique texture and flavor profiles.
• Spicy Kick: For a delightful smoky or spicy twist, add a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of chili powder to your seasoning blend.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh or dried herbs can elevate your steak. Rub a small amount of dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano onto the steak with the oil before cooking.
• Steak Rubs: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade steak rub. Many rubs contain a blend of salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and various spices that will impart complex flavors.
• Finishing Touches: After cooking, elevate your steak with a pat of rich garlic butter, a dollop of flavorful cowboy butter, or a drizzle of your preferred steak sauce. These additions melt beautifully into the warm steak, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

1. Prepare & Season: For optimal results, allow your ribeye steaks to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels – a dry surface is key for a good sear. Brush both sides of the ribeye steak with olive oil, ensuring a thin, even coating. Then, season the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, or your favorite steak rub. Don’t underestimate the power of good seasoning!
2. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer basket to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for at least 5 minutes. Preheating is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy crust and locking in the juices from the moment the steak hits the basket. Once preheated, carefully place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. This allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for even cooking and searing. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. Air Fry & Flip: Air fry the steaks at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Flipping ensures that both sides develop a beautiful crust and cook evenly. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and your specific air fryer model. For thinner steaks (less than 1 inch), you may need to reduce the time, while thicker steaks (over 1.5 inches) will require additional cooking time.
4. Rest: Once the steaks reach your desired internal temperature (refer to our temperature guide below), remove them immediately from the air fryer. Transfer them to a cutting board and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is absolutely critical; it allows the juices within the steak to redistribute, resulting in an incredibly tender and juicy bite. Skipping this step can lead to a dry, tough steak.

Optional: Enhance your air fryer ribeye steak by topping it with a generous pat of garlic butter, a spoonful of rich cowboy butter, or your favorite steak sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Serve your perfectly cooked steak with delicious and easy side dishes like tender air fryer asparagus or perfectly roasted air fryer broccoli. For more inspiration, explore our extensive list of air fryer vegetables to complete your meal.

Steak Temperature Guide: From Rare to Well Done

Achieving your preferred steak doneness is a matter of precision. The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to the proper internal temperature for both safety and taste is by using a reliable digital meat thermometer. Steak thickness can significantly alter cooking times, so relying on a thermometer is key for consistent results:

• Rare: 125 degrees F (52 degrees C) – Cool red center.
• Medium Rare: 135 degrees F (57 degrees C) – Warm red center.
• Medium: 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) – Warm pink center.
• Medium Well: 155 degrees F (68 degrees C) – Slightly pink center.
• Well Done: 160 degrees F (71 degrees C) – Little to no pink.

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Ribeye

To ensure your air fryer ribeye steak turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is your best friend for achieving perfect doneness. It helps you avoid overcooking, which can lead to a tough and dry steak. Always check the internal temperature, as cooking times are estimates.
• Let the Steak Rest: Don’t skip the resting step! After cooking, allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the internal juices to redistribute, resulting in a significantly more tender and juicy steak.
• Adjust Cook Time for Thickness: Steak thickness and your specific air fryer model can greatly affect cooking times. Thinner steaks will cook faster, while thicker cuts will require more time. Always use your meat thermometer as the ultimate guide.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For a perfect sear and even cooking, ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate around each steak. Cook in batches if necessary, rather than stacking or overlapping the steaks.
• Pat Dry for a Better Sear: Before applying oil and seasonings, thoroughly pat your steaks dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can steam the steak instead of searing it, preventing that coveted crispy crust.
• Room Temperature Start: As mentioned, bringing your steaks to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking promotes more even cooking throughout the steak.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer is essential. It ensures the cooking environment is at the correct temperature from the moment the steak enters, leading to a better sear.

If you’re looking for more delicious steak ideas to cook in your air fryer, be sure to try this Air Fryer Flank Steak, a hearty Air Fryer T-Bone Steak, or a luxurious Air Fryer Filet Mignon. And don’t forget to check out our practical tips on how to reheat steak in the air fryer to enjoy leftovers, or use any leftover steak in this delicious steak burrito bowl for a completely new meal experience.

Air Fryer Ribeye Steak FAQs

4.73 from 137 votes

Servings:
4

Air Fryer Ribeye Steak

By
Becky

Making air fryer Ribeye steak is an incredibly easy way to make a delicious steak dinner. It’s done in just minutes and cooked to perfection, delivering a juicy, flavorful result every time!

Prep:

5 minutes
mins

Cook:

16 minutes
mins

Resting Time:

10 minutes
mins

Total:

31 minutes
mins

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Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• ▢
  
  2 rib eye steaks, 16 ounces each, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoon olive oil

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Cook Mode

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Instructions

• Allow the ribeye steaks to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes.
• Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned steaks in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Cook for 10–12 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature against the guide above for your desired level of doneness.
• Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. This is crucial for juicy results.

Video

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. This will help ensure you don’t overcook, which can make the steak tough. Thicker or thinner steak will need time adjusted.
• Let the steak rest after cooking to lock in those flavorful juices.
• Adjust the cook time based on steak thickness and your air fryer model.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. The air needs to circulate for a perfect sear.

Nutrition

Calories:
267
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
0.2
g

,

Protein:
23
g

,

Fat:
19
g

,

Saturated Fat:
8
g

,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g

,

Monounsaturated Fat:
10
g

,

Cholesterol:
69
mg

,

Sodium:
350
mg

,

Potassium:
306
mg

,

Fiber:
0.1
g

,

Sugar:
0.003
g

,

Vitamin A:
18
IU

,

Calcium:
9
mg

,

Iron:
2
mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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