Air-Fryer Pork Steak: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Cooking pork steaks in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare a delicious meal. The air fryer seals in moisture, resulting in tender and juicy pork steaks. The process is straightforward and can be completed in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can cook pork steaks from fresh or frozen, and the 360-degree cooking ensures even cooking without the mess of oil splatter. The key to a tasty pork steak is in the seasoning, with spice rubs and BBQ sauce glazes being popular choices. It's important to cook pork to the right temperature to avoid foodborne illnesses, so using a meat thermometer is recommended. With the right tools and simple ingredients, you can easily prepare juicy and tender air-fried pork steaks.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for pork steaks in an air fryer depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. It is important to cook pork to the right temperature to avoid foodborne illnesses. The USDA recommends a minimum internal cooking temperature of 145°F/63°C for pork steaks. However, some people prefer to cook pork to an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C for a juicier and more well-done steak.

For thicker pork steaks, you will need to increase the cooking time to achieve the desired level of doneness. The ideal cooking time for thicker pork steaks in an air fryer is between 12 and 15 minutes. If you are using bone-in pork steaks, make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure even cooking. Thin pork steaks will cook faster and may not develop a nice char, so consider reducing the cooking time for thinner cuts.

When cooking pork steaks in an air fryer, preheating the appliance is an important step. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F-400°F for about 5 minutes. Then, place the pork steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap to allow for even cooking.

The cooking time can vary depending on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steaks. For thicker cuts, cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through. For thinner steaks, a cooking time of 8-10 minutes should be sufficient.

To check if your pork steaks are cooked to your desired level of doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak. If the temperature reads 145°F/63°C, the steaks are done. If you prefer your pork more well-done, continue cooking until the temperature reaches 160°F/71°C.

Let the pork steaks rest for at least 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to reach its final temperature. Enjoy your juicy and tender air fryer pork steaks!

Seasoning and ingredients

The seasoning and ingredients you use for your pork steak are crucial to achieving the perfect flavour and texture. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of your air-fried pork steak:

Firstly, it is important to pat your pork steaks dry with a kitchen paper towel before you begin seasoning. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and ensure a more even cook. You can use boneless or bone-in pork steaks, but remember that bone-in steaks may require a longer cooking time. Thicker steaks will also need a little longer in the air fryer to achieve a good char.

When it comes to seasoning, you can use a simple combination of salt and pepper or get creative with a dry rub. A dry rub is a great way to add flavour and moisture to your pork steak. You can buy pre-made rubs or make your own by mixing together spices like dried sage, savoury, cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion, and garlic granules. For a sweet and spicy kick, try a rub with brown sugar, chilli powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of spices to find your favourite flavour profile.

If you're using a dry rub, coat the pork steaks generously and ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. You can then lightly brush the steaks with a flavourless cooking oil like vegetable oil or olive oil. This step will help the spices adhere to the meat and add moisture. Remember to oil the meat, not the air fryer, to prevent smoke and waste.

For an extra punch of flavour, try basting your pork steaks with BBQ sauce. You can either baste the steaks before placing them in the air fryer or halfway through the cooking process. If you're concerned about making a mess, it's a good idea to baste the steaks outside of the air fryer. However, some people prefer to baste inside the air fryer for more flavour absorption.

In addition to seasoning and ingredients, it's important to consider the sides you'll be serving with your pork steak. Pork steaks go well with a variety of roasted or air-fried vegetables, such as zucchini, Brussels sprouts, green beans, and corn on the cob. For starch, consider mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or sweet potatoes. Don't forget to let your pork steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a juicy, tender bite.

How to check if it's cooked

Checking if your pork steak is cooked through is an important step to avoid foodborne illnesses. To do this, insert a cooking thermometer into the thickest part of the steak after cooking. The internal temperature should be at least 145°F/63°C. If it hasn't reached this temperature, close the air fryer and cook for a few more minutes.

If you don't have a cooking thermometer, you can also check if your pork steak is cooked by looking at the colour of the meat. A good indicator of doneness is when the meat has turned from pink to brown, and the juices run clear. However, using a thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your pork steak is cooked properly.

Once your pork steak has reached the minimum internal temperature of 145°F/63°C, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender steak.

Some people prefer their pork steak cooked to a higher internal temperature of 160°F/71°C, but this may result in a drier steak. It's important to note that the cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steak, so adjust accordingly.

How to reheat

Reheating pork steaks in an air fryer is a great way to restore the crispy exterior and juicy interior of the meat. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, remove the leftover pork steak from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 20 minutes to reach room temperature. This is important because when meat transitions from cold to hot, the muscle fibres contract and become less tender. Allowing the steak to reach room temperature before reheating will also prevent it from becoming dry, chewy, or dull.

Next, prepare your air fryer basket. You can line it with aluminium foil or paper for easy cleanup, especially if you are reheating fried or breaded pork steaks. Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray, olive oil, or butter to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.

Now, place the pork steaks in the basket, ensuring they are not stacked or touching. If you are reheating multiple steaks, arrange them in a single layer and leave space around each steak so that the heat can circulate freely and cook them evenly.

Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F/180°C and heat the steaks for 2-3 minutes. For thicker cuts, you may need to add an additional 1-2 minutes. After this time, check the internal temperature of the steaks with an instant-read thermometer. The steaks are ready when they reach at least 165°F/74°C in the centre of the thickest part. If they have not reached this temperature, continue heating in 2-3 minute intervals, flipping the steaks over between intervals, until they are warmed through.

Finally, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and juicy.

And that's it! You now have perfectly reheated pork steaks that are tender and full of flavour. Enjoy!

What to serve it with

Juicy, tender, and loaded with delicious flavors, air fryer pork steaks are a quick and easy dinner option. They can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air fryer pork steak:

Boursin Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with pork steak. Try adding Boursin, a creamy and flavorful French cheese, to your mashed potatoes for an extra touch of elegance.

Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce

For those who enjoy a hearty, savory sauce, cowboy butter is a perfect choice. It's a creamy, herby sauce with a hint of spice that complements the flavor of pork beautifully. Dip your pork steak into this sauce for an indulgent treat.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that can be roasted to perfection. Their slightly nutty flavor and crispy texture make them a delightful accompaniment to the juicy pork steak.

Roasted or Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be roasted or mashed to pair perfectly with pork steak. Their natural sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the meat.

Sauteed Zucchini, Spinach, or Green Peas

For a lighter option, sauteed zucchini, spinach, or green peas can be a wonderful choice. These vegetables offer a fresh and healthy side dish to balance out the richness of the pork steak.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that can also be enjoyed all year round. It provides a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture that pairs well with the juicy pork steak.

BBQ Sauce

Pork steaks and BBQ sauce are a match made in heaven. You can brush your pork steaks with BBQ sauce before, after, or during cooking for an extra flavor boost. Choose a store-bought variety or make your own homemade sauce.

Remember, pork steaks are quite versatile and can be served with a variety of sides according to your preference. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings!

Frequently asked questions