Cooking Ribeye In An Air Fryer Oven: A Quick Guide

how to cook ribeye in air fryer oven

Cooking ribeye steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a juicy, tender, and flavourful steak. It is a hands-off method that doesn't require a lot of oil and butter and delivers a steak that is cooked to perfection. This guide will take you through the steps to cook ribeye in an air fryer, from preheating the air fryer to the ideal resting time for the steak.

How to cook ribeye in an air fryer oven

Characteristics Values
Preheat temperature 390°F to 400°F (200°C)
Preheat time 3 to 5 minutes
Steak temperature Room temperature
Steak type Boneless ribeye
Steak thickness 1" to 1 1/2"
Seasoning Salt, pepper, garlic powder, avocado oil, vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, butter, steak seasoning
Air fryer basket preparation Spray with avocado oil
Steak preparation Pat dry, season, place in basket
Cooking time 5-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, 9-10 minutes for medium, 13 minutes for medium-well, 15 minutes for well-done
Internal temperature 130°F to 160°F
Resting time 5 minutes
Serving suggestions Butter, parsley, chives, side salad
Storage Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 5 days, freeze for up to 3 months

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Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in cooking a ribeye steak. While many air fryer recipes do not require preheating, it is necessary when cooking steak to get an even cook and a nice sear on the outside of the meat. Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 400°F (200°C). Some sources recommend preheating to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, while others suggest 400°F for 3 minutes.

It is also important to ensure your steak is at room temperature before placing it in the air fryer. This will ensure more even cooking. Take your steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and pat it dry. You can then season the steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or any other seasonings you prefer. You can also rub avocado oil onto the steak before seasoning.

Once your steak and air fryer are preheated, you can place the steak in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, and do not place steaks on top of each other. Leave some room around the steaks for the air to circulate.

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Choose the right steak

Choosing the right steak is essential for a successful air fryer ribeye. Here are some key considerations:

First, look for thick steaks. The average supermarket ribeye is typically less than 1 inch thick, but for air frying, aim for steaks around 1 1/2 inches thick. Thicker steaks result in a juicier, more flavourful final product. This may mean asking your butcher for freshly cut steaks. In particular, look for Black Angus ribeye steaks, which will have the best marbling and flavour.

Second, pay attention to the colour and fat content of the steak. Look for a bright red ribeye with a large eye—the big piece of white fat in the middle. You also want to see a lot of marbling, which are the flecks of fat spread throughout the meat. This fat will help keep the steak moist and juicy during the cooking process.

Third, consider the weight of the steaks. A good rule of thumb is to aim for steaks that are around 16 ounces each. This will ensure that each person you are serving gets a generous portion.

Finally, bring your steak to room temperature before air frying. This is a crucial step, as it ensures more even cooking. Take the steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and let it sit, covered, at room temperature. This step is key to achieving the perfect air fryer ribeye.

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Seasoning and spices

Salt and Pepper

The dynamic duo of salt and pepper is a classic for a reason. Coating your steak with this simple combination will enhance the natural flavours of the meat without overwhelming it. This option is perfect if you prefer a more subtle seasoning that lets the steak shine through.

Garlic Powder

For those who want to add a little extra kick to their steak, garlic powder is an excellent option. It provides a punch of flavour that pairs well with the richness of the ribeye. Combined with salt and pepper, garlic powder creates a savoury trio that will tantalize your taste buds.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a great way to add a subtle nutty flavour to your steak while also promoting even cooking and browning. Spraying or rubbing avocado oil on your steak before air frying helps to achieve that coveted crusty sear.

Butter

Adding a pat of butter to your steak while it rests can introduce additional richness and moisture. For a special touch, try making herb butter or compound butter with ingredients like garlic, parsley, or other herbs and spices. This will take your steak to the next level, making it truly indulgent.

Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a savoury condiment that can add depth of flavour to your steak. It's a versatile ingredient that can be mixed with oil and brushed onto the steak or used as a dipping sauce for your cooked ribeye.

Custom Seasoning Blends

If you're feeling adventurous, create your own custom seasoning blend! Try mixing different spices like garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil. Experimenting with different combinations will help you find your signature steak seasoning.

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Cooking time

The cooking time for your ribeye steak will depend on the thickness of the steak, the temperature you want it cooked to, and the model of your air fryer.

Most sources recommend cooking your steak for around 5-6 minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak. This will give you a total cooking time of 10-12 minutes. However, if you prefer your steak rare, you should cook it for slightly less time, and if you prefer it medium, you should cook it for slightly longer. One source recommends cooking a medium steak for a total of 13 minutes, and a medium-well steak for 15 minutes.

If you are using a thinner steak, you should cut the cooking time in half, and thicker steaks will need more time. If you are cooking more than one steak, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be 130-135°F, for a perfect medium with a pink center, aim for 140-145°F, for a medium-well steak, the temperature should be 150°F, and for a well-done steak, the temperature should be 160°F.

You should also allow your steak to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking, and for thicker steaks, you may want to rest them for up to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the steak reach your desired temperature without drying out.

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Resting and serving

Resting your steak is a crucial step in the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. The resting time depends on the steak's thickness, with thicker cuts benefiting from up to 10 minutes, while thinner steaks need around 5 minutes. It's best to use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F.

After removing the steak from the air fryer, wrap it in aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the steak to finish cooking and reach your desired level of doneness, while minimizing the risk of drying out or overcooking. During this time, the steak's temperature will rise by about 5-7°F.

Once the steak has rested, it's time to serve. Air fryer ribeye steaks are best enjoyed when they're freshly cooked, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve, place the steak on a cutting board and slice it, adding a pat of butter or compound butter on top. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish. If you're reheating leftovers, the air fryer is the best option to retain the steak's flavor and texture.

Frequently asked questions

Cooking ribeye in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a juicy, tender steak. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Season your ribeye steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also rub avocado oil on the steaks. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or 9-10 minutes for medium. For the best results, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Preheating your air fryer is a must to get a nice sear on the outside of the meat. You can also finish your steak on a cast-iron grill for a good sear.

The average supermarket ribeye is usually less than 1" thick. Look for steaks around 1 1/2" thick, which may mean asking your butcher for freshly cut steaks.

Cooking time depends on the thickness of your steak. A medium-rare steak will take around 10-12 minutes to cook, while a medium steak will take around 13 minutes.

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