Air Fryer Steak: Foil-Wrapped Perfection

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a fast and convenient way to prepare a juicy and tender steak. It is also a great option if you don't have a grill or stove, or if you want to avoid heating up your kitchen. While it is possible to cook steak in foil in an air fryer, some people believe that cooking it without the foil will produce a better sear on the outside and keep the steak juicier.

It is possible to cook steak in foil in an air fryer

Yes, it is possible to cook steak in foil in an air fryer. However, some sources suggest that wrapping steak in foil may not be the best way to cook it in an air fryer. This is because the relatively low cooking temperature means that the steak won't get a nice sear. Instead, it is recommended to season the outside of the steak and cook it uncovered.

If you want to cook your steak uncovered, it is important to let it come to room temperature before cooking. This will help the steak cook evenly and ensure it is less tough. You should also pat the steak dry before seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice. Some recipes suggest brushing the steak with oil, which will help it brown better.

When you are ready to cook your steak, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the steaks in the basket about one inch apart and cook for around four minutes on each side for a rare steak. For thicker steaks, you will need to increase the cooking time accordingly. A meat thermometer can be used to check the internal temperature of the steak and ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Once your steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a clean plate. Top the steak with a pat of butter, some parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired. Then, loosely cover the steak with foil and let it rest for five to ten minutes before slicing and serving.

Preheat the air fryer and adjust timings based on steak thickness

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in cooking your steak, and you should also consider the thickness of your steak when adjusting timings.

Firstly, remove your steaks from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature. This will ensure your steak is less tough and cooks evenly. This should be done for at least 20-30 minutes before cooking.

Next, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. You can also preheat to a lower temperature and then increase it to a maximum to finish the steak.

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak. For a 1-inch steak, cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a thicker steak, increase the cooking time accordingly. For a thinner steak, you may want to cook for less time, but be aware that steaks under 1 inch may cook too fast without getting a chance to brown.

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be between 125-130 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer your steak medium-rare, the temperature should be 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remember that the steak will continue to cook after it has been removed from the air fryer, so take it out 5 degrees before your desired doneness.

Use a meat probe to check the internal temperature

Yes, you can cook steak in foil in an air fryer. However, some sources suggest that wrapping steak in foil is unnecessary because the best way to keep steak juicy is to not overcook it. The easiest way to add flavor is to season the outside and cook it exposed to heat.

To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is important to use a meat probe to check its internal temperature. The temperature you aim for will depend on how well-done you want your steak to be. For example, rare steaks should have an internal temperature between 125°F and 130°F.

To check the internal temperature of your steak, first, insert the probe tip into the steak, avoiding any bones. Then, carefully push the probe into the steak until it reaches the thermal center. Allow the probe to sit for a few seconds so that a temperature reading can appear on the display. If you are using a digital thermometer, the reading will appear on the display after around five seconds. Once the steak has reached the recommended internal temperature, you can take it off the grill or out of the pan.

Steaks are often wider than they are thick, so it is important to also check the temperature from the sides. To do this, grab a piece of steak and insert the probe from the side, aiming to hit the thermal center.

When working with thinner cuts of meat, it can be challenging to find the center. A trick to overcome this is to push the thermometer all the way through the steak until it emerges on the other side. Then, slowly retract the thermometer through the meat. As the tip of the thermometer enters the meat, the temperature reading will rise and then start to drop as you get closer to the center. Keep retracting the thermometer slowly until you hit a low point, at which the temperature will start to rise again. This minimum point is the temperature reading you should refer to.

Avoid overcooking to retain moisture and flavour

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a straightforward process that can deliver juicy and flavourful results. However, it's important to avoid overcooking the steak to retain its moisture and flavour.

Firstly, choose the right cut of steak. Ribeye, filet mignon, New York strip, and sirloin are great options for the air fryer. Opt for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for the best texture and results. Thinner steaks may cook too quickly and won't have a chance to brown properly.

Before cooking, take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Blot the steak with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can interfere with achieving a good sear. Trim any excess fat or sinew from the edges.

Next, season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or any other seasonings of your choice. A simple seasoning works well, but you can also experiment with marinades like soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil to enhance the flavour. Rub the steak with a light coating of oil, which will help it brown better.

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 200°C or 400°F, depending on your desired level of doneness. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 to 12 minutes for a 1-inch-thick steak, flipping it halfway through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and how well done you like it.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F to 130°F. Remove the steak from the air fryer when it's about 5°F below your desired temperature, as the steak will continue to cook and the temperature will increase as it rests.

Finally, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it. Tenting the steak with foil while it rests will keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavourful steak.

Seasoning, rubs, and marinades can enhance the flavour

You can also make a marinade by drizzling olive oil and rice vinegar over your seasoned steak. For a balanced flavour, season your steak evenly and liberally. If you have the time, let your steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour after seasoning to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. You can even let it sit overnight in the fridge for a more robust flavour.

If you're using a rub, make sure to pat your steak dry before applying it. This will ensure that the rub adheres properly and penetrates the meat. You don't need to oil the steak before applying the rub, as it's better to put the spice rub directly on the meat for maximum flavour. However, you can rub a little oil on your steak to help it brown better during cooking.

When cooking your steak in an air fryer, avoid wrapping it in foil as this can affect the searing process. Instead, season the outside of the steak and expose it directly to the heat. This will result in a juicy, tender steak with a delicious crust.

Frequently asked questions