If you are looking for a mouthwatering, juicy steak with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Cooking a ribeye steak from frozen in the air fryer might sound too good to be true, but it delivers perfectly cooked meat with a crispy exterior and tender inside every single time. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or an impressive last-minute feast, this recipe combines ease and excellence in a way that will completely change how you think about cooking steak at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe simple is part of its magic. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from bringing out the natural flavors of the beef to creating that gorgeous crust and juicy inside you crave.
- Ribeye steak (about 1 inch thick, frozen): The star of the show, ribeye is known for its marbling which melts into a tender, flavorful bite.
- Avocado oil (or olive oil as an alternative): This oil has a high smoke point, perfect for searing the steak evenly without burning.
- Coarse salt or steak seasoning: Generously applied to enhance the beef’s natural flavor and create a savory crust.
How to Make Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Frozen Steak
One of the best secrets to this recipe is starting with a completely frozen ribeye steak. Cooking from frozen prevents uneven cooking that can happen with thawed meat and helps you achieve that perfect sear while preserving juiciness throughout.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Brush both sides of your frozen ribeye with avocado oil to help the seasoning stick and to encourage a nice crust during cooking. Then, apply a generous amount of coarse salt or your favorite steak seasoning—use about twice what you would normally to make up for some seasoning that will be lost during air frying. This step guarantees every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) and let it preheat fully. Preheating is essential to get that initial sear that locks in juices and produces the irresistible browned edges we all love on a ribeye steak.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
Place the seasoned frozen steak in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook it for 8 to 12 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. For a 1-inch thick ribeye, aiming for about 10 minutes on each side usually results in a wonderful medium doneness. Of course, you can adjust the time to suit your preference for rare or well-done steak. This method ensures even cooking without drying out your steak.
Step 5: Rest the Steak
Once the cooking is done, let your ribeye rest on a plate for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite tender and juicy rather than dry. This quick step transforms a good steak into a truly exceptional one.
How to Serve Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a pat of garlic herb butter on top right before serving adds an extra layer of richness and a touch of indulgence. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also add a fragrant pop that pairs beautifully with the steak’s robust flavor.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp fresh salad to balance the hearty richness of the steak. For a more indulgent feast, sautéed mushrooms or a cheesy gratin can be fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the rested steak thinly against the grain and arranging the slices fan-like on your plate. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction or a bold chimichurri sauce for visual appeal and a flavor punch. Serving it atop a bed of garlic butter noodles or alongside grilled asparagus can also elevate your presentation to restaurant-quality with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your steak, wrap any leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consuming within 3 to 4 days ensures the best taste and texture, as steak can dry out the longer it sits.
Freezing
If you want to save your cooked ribeye steak for later, freezing is an option. Wrap the steak securely in plastic wrap and then in foil or freezer paper, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Properly frozen steak will maintain good quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat your steak without losing its juiciness, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, or place it in the air fryer at a lower temperature for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can turn the tender ribeye into a tough bite.
FAQs
Can I use a thawed ribeye steak for this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for cooking directly from frozen to ensure even doneness and searing, you can certainly use a thawed steak. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
How thick should the ribeye be for the best results?
A 1-inch thick ribeye is perfect for this Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe as it allows heat to penetrate evenly while achieving a beautifully seared exterior. Thicker steaks may need longer cooking time, while thinner steaks cook faster.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I adapt this recipe?
You can cook your ribeye steak in a conventional oven or skillet, but the air fryer’s hot circulating air provides a unique crust and evenly cooked results. If using a skillet, sear on high heat and finish in the oven for best results.
Is avocado oil necessary?
Avocado oil is recommended due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which is ideal for air frying. However, olive oil or another cooking oil with a high smoke point can be used as a substitute.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Cooking times are a guideline; the best way to check doneness is with a meat thermometer. For a medium ribeye steak, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C), then let it rest to reach perfect juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe truly revolutionizes how easy and delicious steak night can be. It requires minimal ingredients, minimal prep, and very little hands-on time, yet rewards you with restaurant-quality results every single time. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy a perfectly crispy, juicy ribeye right from your air fryer. Your dinner routine is about to get a whole lot tastier!
Print
Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This air fryer ribeye steak recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful steak cooked perfectly from frozen in just about 25 minutes. Using an air fryer allows for a quick sear and even cooking without the need to thaw the steak, making it a convenient and delicious option for steak lovers.
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 (about 1 inch thick) ribeye steak (frozen)
Seasoning
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil as an alternative)
- Generous amount of coarse salt or steak seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Frozen Steak: Begin with a completely frozen ribeye steak to ensure it cooks evenly in the air fryer without thawing.
- Season the Steak: Brush both sides of the frozen steak with avocado oil. Then, season generously with coarse salt or your preferred steak seasoning, using about twice the normal amount to compensate for seasoning loss during cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat fully. This step is important for achieving optimal searing and even cooking of the steak.
- Cook the Steak: Place the seasoned steak into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 8-12 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through. For a 1-inch ribeye, cooking 10 minutes per side will usually result in a medium doneness. Adjust the time as necessary based on the steak’s thickness and your preferred level of doneness.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the steak remains juicy and flavorful before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Using a completely frozen steak is key to avoiding uneven cooking.
- Preheating the air fryer helps achieve a better sear and texture.
- Adjust cooking times based on steak thickness and desired doneness.
- Letting the steak rest before slicing preserves its juiciness.
- Avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point, but olive oil can be used as a substitute.
