Air-Frying Sirloin Steak: Is It Possible?

Sirloin steak is a popular cut of meat that is beloved by many. Traditionally, it is cooked on a grill, but what if you want to enjoy a juicy steak without having to fire up the grill? This is where the air fryer comes in. Air fryers are a convenient and mess-free way to cook steak, especially if you live in a colder climate and don't want to go outside to grill. Not only is it easier, but it also produces a tender and juicy steak that is cooked to perfection. So, can sirloin steak be cooked in an air fryer? The answer is yes, and here's everything you need to know about it.

Sirloin steak alternatives

Cooking sirloin steak in an air fryer is a fast and easy way to prepare a delicious meal for the whole family. The circulating hot air of the air fryer produces a more tender steak than cooking it on a stove or in an oven. The air fryer method is also hands-off, making it harder to overcook or dry out the steak.

While sirloin steak is a popular choice for the air fryer, other cuts of steak can also be used, such as New York strip, tri-tip, top sirloin, or ribeye. It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the model of the air fryer. For example, thinner steaks will cook faster and may not get a chance to brown. Therefore, it is recommended to use steaks that are at least 1 inch thick.

To prepare the sirloin steak for air frying, it is suggested to pat the steak dry with paper towels and season it with salt and pepper, or a dry rub of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Some recipes also suggest brushing the steak with olive oil to help with browning and seasoning. It is important to ensure that the steaks have enough space in the air fryer basket to cook evenly.

• New York Strip: This cut of steak is a great alternative to sirloin and can be cooked using the same method. Ensure the steak is at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick and season it with salt and pepper or your preferred steak seasoning.
• Ribeye: Ribeye steaks are another good option for air frying. Look for steaks that are well-marbled as this will result in a more tender and juicy steak.
• Porterhouse (T-bone): This cut of steak includes a T-shaped bone with meat on both sides, making it a larger option that can be cooked similarly to sirloin.
• Filet Mignon: A smaller, tender cut of steak that can be cooked using the same method as sirloin.

Air fryer temperature

Air fryers are a great way to cook steak, especially thicker cuts like sirloin, as they turn nice and browned on the outside without overcooking and there's very little cleanup. The key to a great air fryer steak is controlling the temperature to get the desired degree of doneness.

Firstly, it is important to ensure your steak is at least 1 inch thick. Thinner steaks will cook too fast and won't get a chance to brown. If your steaks are thicker, you will need to increase the cooking time. It is also important to ensure your steaks are at room temperature before cooking. This is so that the outer edges don't get hot and crispy while the centre remains rare or undercooked. Ideally, you should let your steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, but 15 minutes will also do.

When it comes to the temperature in the air fryer, you should preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A hotter temperature encourages better browning. For a 1-inch steak, air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, turning halfway, for medium-rare. For a medium steak, cook for 12 minutes, again turning halfway. For thicker steaks, you should increase the cooking time. You can also use a meat probe to test your steaks and take them out 5 degrees before your desired doneness, as the steak will continue to cook and the temperature will increase by about 5-10 degrees as it rests.

You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. This is a more accurate way to test the doneness of your steak than cooking time.

Steak thickness

Most recipes recommend using sirloin steaks with a thickness of at least 1 inch (2.5 cm). Thinner steaks tend to cook too quickly, often resulting in overcooking and a chewy texture. Steaks that are at least 1 inch thick allow for better browning and provide a window of time to develop a delicious crust. If you're aiming for a medium-rare steak, a 1-inch thickness is ideal.

However, thicker steaks are also an option, and many steak enthusiasts prefer cuts that are 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) thick or slightly more. Thicker steaks will require a longer cooking time, so be sure to adjust accordingly. For example, a 1.5-inch steak will take about 2 minutes longer to cook than a 1-inch steak.

When cooking thicker steaks, it's essential to use a meat probe or a meat thermometer to monitor their internal temperature. This way, you can ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. For instance, a medium-rare steak should have an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F (52°C).

In summary, the thickness of your sirloin steak will directly impact the cooking time and the overall doneness of your steak. Thicker steaks will require longer cooking times, while thinner steaks may cook more quickly. By adjusting the cooking time based on thickness, you can ensure your air-fried sirloin steak turns out juicy, tender, and cooked just the way you like it.

Marinades and seasonings

If you choose not to marinate, seasoning your steak with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices just before cooking can also deliver delicious results. A dry rub can help with the overall colour of the steak, especially if it is lean. A basic combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can be used. For a more complex flavour profile, you can use Allegro seasoning, Italian seasoning, or Montreal steak seasoning.

Additionally, consider brushing a thin layer of olive oil or butter over the steaks before seasoning to promote browning and a crispier exterior.

Sides and toppings

There are several toppings and sides that can complement a juicy sirloin steak cooked in an air fryer.

For toppings, a pat of garlic herb butter is a popular choice to enhance the flavour of the steak. You can also make compound butter with herbs like dill, parsley, rosemary, thyme, or chives. Alternatively, a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is sufficient to bring out the taste of the steak.

As for sides, baked potatoes, smashed potatoes, or mashed potatoes are classic accompaniments to steak. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables like green beans or asparagus. If you're feeling adventurous, try a classic Caesar salad or air fryer roasted potatoes. For a refreshing option, a steak salad with cold steak slices is a great choice.

Frequently asked questions