Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about the sizzle of a steak, the aroma of garlic butter wafting through the air, that brings back memories of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. It’s the kind of meal where everyone gathers around the table, eagerly awaiting that first juicy bite. Today, we’re bringing that nostalgic warmth right into your home with my easy peasy Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter recipe. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the steak to shine with just a few ingredients. It’s a dish that promises to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a special occasion.
Imagine the satisfaction of a perfectly cooked steak in under 30 minutes — yes, it’s possible! The air fryer, much like an old friend, is here to help you achieve that perfect sear and juicy interior without the fuss. And let’s not forget about the garlic butter, a luxurious touch that melts over the steak, adding richness and depth that will make you feel like a culinary maestro in your own kitchen. The best part? This recipe is as accessible as it is delicious, requiring minimal prep and tools. You’ll find that the process is not only straightforward but also a delightful experience, reminiscent of those carefree days spent learning to cook at the kitchen counter. So, let’s dive into the heart of this comforting dish.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together with its delightful simplicity and flavor. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
Quick and Convenient: This recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality steak dinner in the comfort of your home in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You don’t have to worry about long marinating times or complicated cooking techniques. Simply season, cook, and enjoy.
Healthier Cooking: Using an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, providing a healthier way to cook your steak while still achieving that delicious, crispy exterior. Traditional pan-frying often requires more oil, which can add unnecessary calories. The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures a crispy crust with minimal added fat.
Flavorful Finish: The garlic butter adds an irresistible richness and flavor to the steak, elevating it to a level that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to achieve. The butter melts perfectly over the hot steak, seeping into the meat and enhancing its natural juices.
Versatile Meal: This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables, allowing for a customizable dining experience that suits any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this steak can be dressed up or down to match the mood.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful dish, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals.
Air Fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect, crispy exterior on your steak without using a lot of oil. The even heat distribution ensures that the steak cooks uniformly, avoiding the risk of overcooking or undercooking.
Tongs: Ideal for flipping the steaks and ensuring even cooking on all sides. Tongs allow you to handle the steak gently without piercing it, preserving the juices inside.
Small Bowl: Perfect for mixing the garlic butter that adds so much flavor to the dish. A small bowl is just the right size for combining the butter with garlic and parsley, making it easy to spread over the steak.
Knife and Cutting Board: For trimming the steak and chopping the garlic and parsley. A sharp knife makes it easy to prep your ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Meat Thermometer: Useful for checking the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it’s cooked to your liking. This tool takes the guesswork out of cooking, allowing you to achieve the perfect doneness every time.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 2 striploin steaks, (1″ thick)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- salt and pepper
Garlic Butter (optional)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, (room temperature)
- 1 clove garlic, (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
Remove steak from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature (10-15 minutes). Trim fat around the edges if desired. This step is crucial as it ensures the steak cooks evenly and the fibers relax, making for a more tender bite.
Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F (turn it on for 5-10 minutes). Preheating is key to achieving a good sear right from the start, locking in the juices.
Rub the steaks with oil and season well with salt and pepper (or add your own seasoning as desired). The oil helps the seasoning adhere and promotes a nice crust. Feel free to experiment with different spices like paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
Open the basket, put steaks in and cook for 10-14 minutes (10 minutes for medium-rare, 12 minutes for medium, and 14 minutes for medium-well), until desired doneness is reached. Air frying times can vary based on steak thickness and air fryer model, so adjust as necessary.
Meanwhile, stir together butter, garlic, and parsley. The garlic butter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week, perfect for last-minute flavor boosts.
Remove steaks from the air fryer and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with garlic butter. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful steak.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 14 minutes • Total Time: 24 minutes • Calories: 450 • Servings: 2
Note: For the best results, ensure the steaks are at room temperature before cooking, as this helps achieve an even cook.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
Steak: A great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in iron, which is vital for energy production and immune function.
Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost the immune system. Garlic also adds a punch of flavor without adding calories, making it a healthy way to enhance your dishes.
Parsley: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, adding a fresh note and nutritional boost. This herb brightens the dish with its color and mild, peppery taste.
Canola Oil: Low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy choice for cooking. It has a high smoke point, which is ideal for high-heat cooking methods like air frying.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This dish is a versatile companion to various beverages and side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the richness of the steak beautifully. The tannins in the wine balance the protein and fat of the steak, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds color and nutrition to your meal. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a perfect harmony with the savory steak.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that provide a comforting, hearty balance to the steak. The buttery softness of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the crisp crust of the steak.
Caesar Salad: The crisp, refreshing flavors of a Caesar salad offer a nice contrast to the savory steak. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons add a delightful texture and flavor dimension.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them the easy peasy way, simply reheat the steak in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain the steak’s moisture and texture better than microwaving.
You can also slice the steak thinly and toss it into a fresh salad or make a delicious steak sandwich with some crusty bread and a slather of the garlic butter. Add some arugula and tomatoes for a refreshing twist, or layer with cheese and grill for a melt-in-your-mouth steak panini.
As the aroma of the garlic butter melds with the sizzling steak, I hope you feel the warmth and joy that comes with preparing and sharing a homemade meal. This Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones and savor the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, may this dish bring a little extra comfort and delight to your day. Bon appétit!
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Air Fryer Steak with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove steak from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature (10-15 minutes). Trim fat around the edges if desired.
- Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F (turn it on for 5-10 minutes).
- Rub the steaks with oil and season well with salt and pepper (or add your own seasoning as desired).
- Open the basket, put steaks in and cook for 10-14 minutes (10 minutes for medium-rare, 12 minutes for medium, and 14 minutes for medium-well), until desired doneness is reached.
- Meanwhile, stir together butter, garlic and parsley.
- Remove steaks from the air fryer and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with garlic butter.
