Air Fryer Steak with Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce

Introduction

This Air Fryer Steak with Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce is a rich, indulgent dish with a spooky twist. The steak is perfectly cooked in the air fryer, locking in juices while developing a flavorful crust. The Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce is velvety smooth with a bold garlic punch, making it an irresistible pairing for the steak.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

2 ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steaks (1-inch thick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spooky heat, optional)

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

 Prepare the Steak

Pat dry the steaks with a paper towel for a better sear.

Brush both sides with olive oil and season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes for even cooking.

 Air Fry the Steak

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.

Cook according to desired doneness:

Medium-Rare: 8 minutes (flipping at 4 minutes)

Medium: 10 minutes (flipping at 5 minutes)

Medium-Well: 12 minutes (flipping at 6 minutes)

Remove the steaks and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.

 Make the Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously.

Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.

Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. If needed, stir in cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.

Stir in lemon juice, then remove from heat.

 Serve & Enjoy!

Slice the rested steak and drizzle generously with the Ghostly Garlic Cream Sauce.

Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic butter asparagus.

Pro Tips for the Best Steak

Use a meat thermometer: Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and 140°F (60°C) for medium.

Let the steak rest after air frying to keep it juicy.

For extra garlic flavor, roast a whole garlic bulb and mash it into the sauce.