Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to enjoy steak, then this Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is just what you need! It’s a simple recipe that transforms two striploin steaks into a juicy delight in just 17 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family gathering, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. The homemade garlic butter adds an irresistible richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With only five ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal without any fuss. Plus, the air fryer ensures the steaks are perfectly cooked every time. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep and cook time: In just 17 minutes, you can have a flavorful steak dinner ready to serve!
- Minimal ingredients: With only five wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to keep these on hand for any last-minute cravings.
- Juicy and tender: The air fryer locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is as tender as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or side dishes to make it your own!
- Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will love the rich flavor of the garlic butter paired with the perfectly cooked steak.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a look at the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor we all crave!
For the Steak
- 2 striploin steaks (1 thick)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- salt and pepper
For the Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley
Variations
This Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or salmon fillets instead of steak for a different protein option.
- Add spice: Incorporate your favorite spices like paprika or chili powder before cooking for an exciting kick.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme in the garlic butter for added flavor.
- Serve it differently: Instead of serving with garlic butter, try topping your steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables.
How to Make Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Step 1: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature
Before we get started, remove your steaks from the refrigerator. Letting them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes helps them cook evenly. If you prefer, trim any excess fat around the edges to suit your taste.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer is key for achieving that perfect sear! Set it to 400 degrees F and let it run for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the steaks. This step ensures that your meat starts cooking immediately when placed inside.
Step 3: Season Your Steaks
Rub each steak with canola oil and season generously with salt and pepper—or feel free to use any seasoning blend you love! This creates a delicious crust during cooking while enhancing the rich flavors of the beef.
Step 4: Cook the Steaks
Carefully place the seasoned steaks in the basket of your preheated air fryer. Cook them for about 10-14 minutes—10 minutes for medium-rare, 12 minutes for medium, and 14 minutes for medium-well. Keep an eye on them as they cook and adjust based on how you like your steaks done!
Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter
While your steaks are cooking, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley in a small bowl. This homemade garlic butter will elevate your steaks and provide that delicious finishing touch!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked to your liking, carefully remove the steaks from the air fryer. Let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing—this allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite extra juicy! Serve with a generous dollop of garlic butter on top and enjoy every forkful!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Cooking steak in an air fryer can be a game changer, and with these pro tips, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results right at home!
- Choose the Right Cut: Striploin steaks are tender and flavorful, making them ideal for air frying. Opting for a quality cut ensures a juicy steak every time.
- Let it Rest: Allowing your steak to rest after cooking is crucial. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite for each slice.
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Mixing garlic and parsley into room temperature butter makes it easier to spread on your hot steaks, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Since air fryers can vary in performance, it’s wise to check the doneness of your steaks a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. This way, you can avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While salt and pepper are classic choices, feel free to add herbs or spices that you love. This personal touch can make your steak uniquely yours!
How to Serve Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Presenting your Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter beautifully not only enhances its appeal but also makes the meal feel special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary adds color and freshness to your dish.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon can brighten up the rich flavors of the steak and garlic butter.
- Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper on top provides an extra kick of flavor.
Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the savory flavors of the steak perfectly, creating a comforting side dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until lightly charred adds a vibrant green element that pairs wonderfully with beef.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli is an excellent way to round out your meal while adding color and crunch.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter will not only taste divine but also impress anyone at your dinner table! Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is perfect for meal prep! You can easily cook extra steaks ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious leftovers.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cooked steak to cool completely before storing.
- Place the steak in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- For best quality, try to remove as much air as possible from the bag.
Reheating
- To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F.
- Place the steak in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking for warmth throughout.
- Alternatively, you can reheat on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter:
How do I ensure my Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is cooked perfectly?
To achieve the perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well. Remember that the steak will continue cooking while resting!
Can I use other cuts of meat for this Air Fryer Steak recipe?
Absolutely! While striploin is delightful, feel free to experiment with other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.
What sides pair well with Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter?
This steak pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Choose your favorites to complement this savory dish!
Can I make garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just let it soften at room temperature before serving on your steak.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter as much as I do! It’s simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it a special treat for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a cozy dinner at home, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to experiment with different seasonings or sides. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Savor juicy Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter in just 17 minutes! Try this easy recipe tonight for a delicious dinner experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 striploin steaks (1" thick)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Bring steaks to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5-10 minutes.
- Rub each steak with canola oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-14 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
- While steaks cook, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley in a bowl to make garlic butter.
- Once cooked, let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving with garlic butter on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 striploin steak (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
