
Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter brings juicy steakhouse flavor to your kitchen fast. You get a seared crust and tender middle without standing over a stove or firing up the grill. This recipe is my secret weapon for a quick yet impressive dinner when I am short on time and everyone is hungry for something special.
The first time I cooked steak this way my husband could not believe it was not from a restaurant. Now it is our go-to for a fuss-free steak night.
Ingredients
- Ribeye or sirloin steaks: juicy with nice marbling for flavor choose steaks at least one inch thick for best results
- Olive oil: helps the seasoning stick and promotes a golden exterior
- Garlic powder: infuses savory aroma without burning like fresh garlic
- Onion powder: brings roundness and subtle sweetness
- Smoked paprika: adds subtle smoke that mimics grilled steak
- Salt: enhances meatiness use coarse kosher or sea salt for best texture
- Black pepper: gives gentle heat crack it fresh if possible
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: classic steak herbs for aroma pick firm bright sprigs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the Steaks Dry
- Blot steaks on both sides with paper towels to remove surface moisture. Removing excess moisture ensures a good sear and minimizes steaming.
- Season the Steaks
- Rub both sides of steak with olive oil then sprinkle equally with garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper. Massage seasonings into the meat for a flavorful crust.
- Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit two hundred degrees Celsius and let it preheat for five minutes. A hot basket start helps form that crave-worthy crust.
- Arrange and Add Herbs
- Lay the steaks flat in the fryer basket ensuring they do not overlap. This allows hot air to circulate. Lay rosemary or thyme sprigs on top for herby aroma.
- Cook the Steak
- Air fry steaks for eight to ten minutes flipping once halfway through. The cook time depends on thickness and your desired doneness. For medium-rare shoot for that golden crust with a slightly springy feel.
- Rest the Steak
- Once cooked let steaks rest at least five minutes before slicing. This redistributes juices so each piece is tender and succulent.

I am always amazed by how the smoked paprika makes the steak taste charred even when cooked indoors. One night my daughter asked if we grilled outside after a rainstorm because it smelled so good at the table.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover steak in a sealed container in the fridge and enjoy within three days. Cold steak slices are perfect for steak salads or sandwiches the next day. I sometimes prep extra on purpose just for lunchbox salads.
Ingredient Substitutions
Cannot find ribeye or sirloin Use strip steak or filet for an equally delicious result. No fresh herbs Try dried Italian seasoning for a similar kick. Out of smoked paprika Sweet paprika or chili powder step in just fine.

Serving Suggestions
Slice the steak and top with homemade garlic butter for that steakhouse finish. Serve next to roasted veggies crusty bread or classic baked potatoes. For a pop of freshness I like scattering chopped parsley or chives just before serving.
Cultural Note
Cooking steak indoors with an air fryer is a modern twist on classic American steakhouse tradition. While open-fire grilling goes back centuries families now get steak night at home with much less fuss. I love how this shows new tools can keep old traditions alive.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of steak works best in the air fryer?
Ribeye and sirloin are both excellent choices due to their marbling and tenderness. Choose cuts about 1 inch thick for optimal results in the air fryer.
- → How long should steak rest after air frying?
Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and create a more flavorful bite.
- → Can I use bone-in steaks in this method?
Yes, bone-in steaks are suitable, but they may require an extra minute or two of cooking depending on thickness and desired doneness.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor best?
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme bring out the steak’s natural flavor and aroma.
- → Is it necessary to flip the steak during cooking?
Flipping the steak halfway through ensures even browning and consistent texture on both sides, contributing to a better overall result.