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Air fryer steak with garlic butter brings restaurant-worthy results to your home kitchen in less than thirty minutes. This recipe is a go-to for those nights when you crave a juicy steak but do not want to fuss with the grill or stove. Perfectly cooked striploin gets capped with melting garlicky butter that soaks right in while the steak rests.
The first time I made this my husband said it was better than most restaurants and now he requests it whenever steak is on sale.
Ingredients
- Striploin steaks: at least one inch thick for a juicy interior look for good marbling and a dry surface
- Canola oil: helps with browning and prevents sticking choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point
- Salt: enhances flavor use kosher or flaky salt for best results
- Black pepper: adds heat freshly cracked makes a big difference
- Salted butter: makes the garlic butter taste rich let it come to room temp so it is easy to stir
- Fresh garlic: infuses bold flavor finely mince for even distribution
- Chopped parsley: gives a bright finish use fresh for the best pop of color and taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove Steaks from Fridge:
- Let the steaks sit out for 10 to 15 minutes so they lose their chill. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents a harsh sear on the outside while the inside stays cold.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Turn your air fryer to 400 degrees and let it run empty for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the basket get hot so you achieve a better sear right away.
- Season and Oil Steaks:
- Rub oil all over the steaks making sure the surface glistens but is not oily. Sprinkle generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Gently press the seasoning in so it sticks well.
- Air Fry the Steaks:
- Arrange steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer with a little space around each one. Cook for 10 minutes if you love medium rare up to 14 minutes if you want them more cooked. Flip halfway through for a more even finish. Check internal temp to be sure it is just right for you.
- Mix the Garlic Butter:
- While the steaks cook use a fork to mash room temperature butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley in a small bowl. The butter should look creamy and flecked with green.
- Rest and Serve:
- Immediately transfer steaks to a plate and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This lets the juices settle so every bite is moist. Smear a generous spoonful of garlic butter over the top just before slicing and serve right away.
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Garlic is my absolute favorite here. When it hits the hot steak the aroma reminds me of lazy weekend dinners at my dads house where he always put extra garlic butter on everything and let us double dip.
Storage Tips
Store leftover steak tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to three days. You can freeze cooked steak if you want to keep it longer but for the best flavor eat within a month. Reheat gently in the air fryer or slice cold for steak salads.
Ingredient Substitutions
If striploin is not available try ribeye or sirloin. For the butter use unsalted and add a tiny pinch of salt. You can swap parsley for chives thyme or tarragon based on what you have. A sprinkle of smoked paprika in the butter will add warmth.
Serving Suggestions
This steak goes perfectly with roasted potatoes crisp green beans or a fresh salad. Spoon extra garlic butter over vegetables or bread for a truly satisfying meal. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
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A Quick History
While the air fryer is a modern invention steak and garlic butter go back to French bistro classics like steak frites. Old school steak was often cooked in a skillet but the air fryer offers a new way to achieve juicy results with zero splatter and less guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of steak is best for air frying?
Striploin is great due to its marbling and tenderness, but ribeye or sirloin also work well in the air fryer.
- → How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, or adjust cook time based on preference.
- → Can I use unsalted butter for the garlic topping?
Yes, unsalted butter works well. You may want to adjust the salt in your seasoning as needed.
- → What other herbs pair well with garlic butter?
Thyme, rosemary, or chives can be added for extra flavor alongside or instead of parsley.
- → How should I rest the steak after air frying?
Let steaks sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking, allowing juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating ensures even cooking and a better sear, so it's recommended for the best texture.