1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
2. Season the Steak:
- Pat the ribeye steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps to achieve a better sear.
- Lightly brush the steak on both sides with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. This helps the seasoning stick to the steak and promotes better browning.
- Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Rub the seasoning into the steak to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Cook the Steak:
- Place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Try to place it in the center of the basket for the most even cooking.
- Cook for about 7-10 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your preferred level of doneness. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the steak to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides.
4. Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature for your preferred doneness:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C)
5. Rest the Steak:
- Once the steak is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Let it rest on a cutting board or plate for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more tender and flavorful when you cut into it.
6. Serve:
- After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips or serve it whole alongside your favorite sides, such as a salad, baked potato, or steamed vegetables.
Tips:
- Thickness of the Steak: Cooking times will vary based on the thickness of your steak and the specific model of your air fryer. Adjustments may be necessary.
- No Overcrowding: If cooking more than one steak, ensure they are not touching in the air fryer basket to allow the air to circulate freely for even cooking.
- Flipping: Flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process ensures even browning and cooking on both sides.
Enjoy your air fryer ribeye steak, a simple yet luxurious meal that’s sure to impress with its delicious flavor and perfect texture!