1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model. Preheating ensures that the steak starts cooking at the right temperature for an even cook.
2. Prepare the Steak:
- While the air fryer is preheating, prepare your ribeye steak. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps to achieve a better sear.
- Brush both sides of the steak lightly with olive oil. This not only helps to prevent sticking but also adds flavor and aids in the cooking process.
- Season both sides of the steak generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder if using. The seasoning is key to a flavorful steak.
3. Cook the Steak:
- Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Make sure it’s placed in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook for about 7-9 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium, or 13-15 minutes for well-done. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your steak and the specific air fryer model.
- Halfway through cooking, flip the steak to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides.
4. Rest the Steak:
- After cooking, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful when you cut into it.
5. Serve:
- Serve your air fryer ribeye steak with your choice of sides. Popular options include roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a baked potato.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Steak
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook one steak at a time or make sure there’s enough space between multiple steaks for the air to circulate.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, 155°F for medium-well, 165°F for well-done).
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your steak, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Enjoy your air fryer ribeye steak with the satisfaction of a restaurant-quality meal prepared in the comfort of your own home, with a fraction of the effort and time.