Air-Fryer Thin Steak: Is It Possible?

can i make thin steak in the air fryer

Thin steaks can be cooked in an air fryer, but they require a different approach to thicker cuts. While thicker steaks benefit from a generous seasoning and a cooking time of 10-12 minutes, thin steaks should be cooked more gently. One source recommends cooking thin steaks for 8 minutes in total, flipping them halfway through, and seasoning them again when you do so. Another suggests cooking thin steaks for 6 minutes on each side, which will result in a medium-rare steak.

Characteristics Values
Steak type Thin steak, also known as minute steak or sizzle steak
Steak thickness 1 inch or thinner
Steak weight Around 1/2 pound or 230g
Steak temperature Bring to room temperature before cooking
Steak seasoning Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning
Steak oil No need to oil the steak before cooking
Steak cooking time 8-12 minutes
Steak cooking temperature 180c/360f-400c/450f
Steak cooking setting Air Fry
Steak flipping Flip halfway through cooking
Steak resting Rest for 3-10 minutes after cooking

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Thin steak cooking time and temperature

Thin steaks are prone to overcooking quickly and becoming chewy, so it's important to be mindful of cooking time and temperature when preparing them in an air fryer.

First, remove the steaks from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This will help the steaks stay tender and juicy.

When cooking thin steaks in an air fryer, it's best to use a temperature of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. For a thin steak, the cooking time will likely be between 7-10 minutes, flipping the steak halfway through.

For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be between 125°F and 130°F. Medium-rare steaks should have an internal temperature between 130°F and 140°F, while medium steaks should be between 140°F and 150°F. Well-done steaks should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

It's important to note that the temperature and cooking time may vary slightly depending on the model of your air fryer. Always use a meat probe or instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of your steak to ensure it's cooked to your desired level of doneness.

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Steak seasoning

Steak is one of those meats that goes well with any seasoning. You can opt for a simple salt and pepper seasoning or spice it up with your favourite steak seasoning mix. Here are some common seasonings that work well:

  • Italian seasoning
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, thyme, or oregano

You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the salty flavours and give the steak a gorgeous caramelised crust.

If you want to add a bit more flavour, you can marinate your steak in a dressing or marinade before air frying. Just make sure to pat it dry before putting it in the air fryer.

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Steak marinade

While thin steaks are prone to overcooking quickly and becoming chewy, you can still make them in an air fryer. However, it is recommended that you use steaks that are at least one inch thick.

Korean BBQ Marinade

Add a drizzle of oil to your steak to make it extra crispy. You can also season it with salt and pepper or your favourite steak seasoning mix. Common seasonings that work well include Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic, and pepper.

For a juicier and more tender steak, you can marinate it in Korean BBQ marinade. Make sure to pat it dry before placing it in the air fryer.

Low-Carb, Paleo, and Whole30-Compliant Marinade

This marinade is made with basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. It includes:

  • 1/2 cup oil of your choice (e.g. avocado oil)
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary

3-Ingredient Steak Marinade

This famous 3-ingredient steak marinade can be used if you are short on time as it requires no marinating time. Unfortunately, I was not able to find the ingredients for this marinade.

Homemade Steak Seasoning Rub

This rub includes:

  • 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar or sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

You can also drizzle the steak with soy sauce and liquid smoke.

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Steak doneness levels

Rare

Steaks cooked to a rare level have an internal temperature between 125°F and 130°F. This is the least cooked level, resulting in a steak with a bright red center.

Medium-Rare

Medium-rare steaks have an internal temperature ranging from 130°F to 140°F. This level offers a balance between a cooked exterior and a pink, juicy center.

Medium

Medium steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F-150°F. At this level, the steak will have a more evenly cooked appearance, with some pinkness in the center.

Well-Done

Well-done steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. They are cooked thoroughly, with no pinkness remaining in the center.

It's important to note that the doneness level of a steak is determined by its internal temperature, so using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your desired level of doneness. Additionally, when cooking steaks in an air fryer, it is recommended to cook steaks that are at least 1 inch thick. Thinner steaks tend to cook too quickly and may become chewy.

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Steak sides

While a thin steak may cook too fast in an air fryer, there are still plenty of side dishes you can prepare in one to go with a thicker cut of steak.

One option is to stick with simple vegetable side dishes. Roasted green beans or asparagus are two tasty possibilities. You could also try garlic butter green beans, or a salad, such as a Caesar salad.

If you're after something more substantial, you could try potatoes. Baked potatoes, smashed potatoes, or mashed potatoes all work well. Or, for something a little more indulgent, you could make sweet potato fries or French fries.

For an Asian twist, you could try pairing your steak with Kai Dong dried noodles, or Spicy Garlic Bok Choy.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can. Thin steak, also known as air fryer minute steak or air fryer sizzle steak, is brilliant in the air fryer.

Thin steaks take around 8 minutes to cook in the air fryer. This is with a flip halfway through, so they do 4 minutes on each side.

The perfect temperature to cook thin steak in the air fryer is 180°C/360°F.

Place your steaks onto a clean chopping board and then sprinkle with salt and pepper on the tops of the steak. Place the thin steaks in the air fryer, side by side and not on top of each other. Air fry at 180°C/360°F for 4 minutes. Use a spatula to flip the steaks over when the air fryer beeps, season the tops again, and cook for another 4 minutes.

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