1. Preparing the Steaks:
- Season the Steaks: First, take the ribeye steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial for ensuring your steaks cook evenly.
- Season Generously: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps to achieve a better sear. Then, rub each steak with a little olive oil and season generously on both sides with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder, if using.
2. Preheating the Air Fryer:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for starting the cooking process with high heat to sear the exterior of the steaks.
3. Cooking the Steaks:
- Place in Air Fryer: Once preheated, place the steaks in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to ensure even cooking and air circulation.
- Cooking Time: Cook for about 7-9 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium, or until they’ve reached your desired level of doneness. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the steaks to ensure an even sear on both sides.
4. Resting the Steaks:
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your steak will be juicy and flavorful when you cut into it.
5. Serving:
- Enjoy: Serve your air fryer ribeye steaks with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a baked potato.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steaks
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the steaks in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This ensures the hot air circulates evenly around each steak.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 155°F (68°C) for well done.
- Customize Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning to match your taste preferences. Steak seasoning blends, dried herbs, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can all add delicious flavors to your ribeye.
Cooking ribeye steaks in an air fryer not only saves time but also reduces the mess and effort compared to traditional pan-searing. This method is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that still feels special and indulgent.