Steak can feel like one of the most intimidating cuts of beef to cook, especially when there are so many opinions about the “right” way to do it. Grilling sounds simple in theory, but inconsistent heat can lead to uneven cooking, while pan-searing often fills the kitchen with smoke before the steak is anywhere near done. When you just want a reliably great steak without the stress, the air fryer is a surprisingly effective solution.
The air fryer’s consistent, controlled heat makes it easy to cook a ribeye steak evenly from edge to edge. Ribeye is especially well suited to this method thanks to its generous marbling, which keeps the steak juicy and flavorful as it cooks. A simple dry brine with kosher salt helps season the meat all the way through, while patting the steaks dry before cooking encourages a bit of crust to form. After flipping, a pat of butter melts over the steak, adding richness and helping finish it off beautifully. A short rest under foil is the final step — and the key to locking in all those juices before slicing.
Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Ingredients
- 2 16-oz boneless ribeye steaks, at least 1 inch thick
- Diamond Crystal Kosher salt to taste
- Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels and arrange them on the rack.
- Generously season the steaks with kosher salt on all sides. Transfer to the refrigerator and dry-brine, uncovered, for at least 2 hours or up to 12 hours.
- About 1 hour before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Pat the steaks dry again, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and season with black pepper.
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 14 minutes for medium rare, flipping halfway through.
- After flipping, immediately place 1 tablespoon of butter on top of each steak and continue cooking.
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer, transfer to a cutting board or plate, and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
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