Air Fryer Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak

A perfectly juicy ribeye cooked in the air fryer, finished with rich garlic butter and optional fresh herbs. Simple, flavorful, and restaurant-quality at home.

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Ingredients

Ribeye Steak

• 1 ribeye steak, 1.25–1.5 inches thick (400–500 g)

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Garlic Butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated

Optional Aromatics

• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped

Optional Finishing

• Flaky sea salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Remove the ribeye from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Pat the steak completely dry with paper towels.
   A dry surface ensures better browning.
3. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Press gently to help the seasoning adhere.
4. Lightly rub olive oil over both sides of the steak.

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Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 5 minutes.
  Preheating helps form a good crust immediately.

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Step 3: First Cook

1. Place the ribeye in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
2. Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 6 minutes.
   This step starts browning and renders the fat.

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Step 4: Garlic Butter Application

1. While the steak cooks, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and herbs in a small bowl.
2. After 6 minutes, flip the steak.
3. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the top.

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Step 5: Final Cook

• Return the basket and cook for 4–7 more minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Target Internal Temperatures:

• Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
• Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
• Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)

👉 Remove the steak when it is 5°F below your target temperature.

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Step 6: Rest the Steak

• Transfer the steak to a plate.
• Let it rest uncovered for 5–8 minutes.
  Resting keeps the steak juicy.

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Step 7: Serve

• Slice against the grain or serve whole.
• Finish with flaky sea salt if desired.
• Serve immediately.

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Important Notes for Best Results

• Use a thick-cut ribeye for better texture and juiciness
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket
• Flip the steak only once for even cooking
• If garlic browns too quickly, wipe off excess butter and reapply after cooking