Air-Fried T-Bone Steak: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare a juicy and tender steak. It is a versatile kitchen appliance that can cook any type of red meat, including T-bone steak, to perfection. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This makes it a healthier alternative to deep frying, producing dishes with fewer calories and less saturated fat.

T-bone steaks are considered one of the highest-quality steaks, with two steaks in one – the filet mignon side and the strip side. When cooking a T-bone steak in an air fryer, it is important to let the steak come to room temperature and preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness, but it typically takes around 8 to 15 minutes for a medium-rare steak.

Selecting the right cut of T-bone steak

T-bone steaks are generally considered one of the highest-quality steaks, and they are priced accordingly. They are cut from the short loin and contain two different steaks attached to the bone: the filet mignon side, which is more tender, and the strip side, which is less tender.

When selecting a T-bone steak, it is important to look for a cut that is at least 1-inch thick, or 1.5 inches for a more generous portion. Thinner cuts may dry out in the air fryer, and anything labelled "thin-cut" should be avoided. A good T-bone steak should have a decent amount of fat, which will keep the meat moist while cooking.

The bone in a T-bone steak is T-shaped, with meat on one side and more meat on the other. The filet side of the steak is the smaller portion and is known as the filet mignon, while the strip side is the larger, tenderloin side. The filet mignon is especially prized, and a T-bone steak with a filet that is at least 1.25 inches thick can be labelled as a porterhouse steak, a more premium cut.

When selecting a T-bone steak, it is also important to consider the marbling of the meat, which refers to the amount of fat and muscle fibres within the cut. A well-marbled steak will have a more tender and juicy texture. The breed of cattle that the steak is sourced from can also impact the quality, with certain breeds, such as Wagyu, known for their highly marbled, extra-tender meat.

Finally, when choosing a T-bone steak, it is a good idea to buy from a reputable butcher or specialty shop, as they will often have higher-quality meat and can cut the steak to your desired thickness.

Preparing the steak for cooking

Preparing a T-bone steak in an air fryer is a straightforward process that delivers excellent results. The first step is to select a high-quality steak, with a thickness of at least 1 to 1.5 inches and good marbling for flavour and tenderness.

Once you have chosen your steak, it is important to let it come to room temperature before cooking. This can take 15-20 minutes and helps to ensure even cooking throughout. While you wait, you can prepare the seasoning. A simple blend of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder and paprika will enhance the flavour of the steak. Combine the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.

When the steak is at room temperature, rub it with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper as desired. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder and paprika, to create a more complex flavour profile. Ensure the steak is well coated, as this will help the seasonings adhere and create a more intense flavour.

The final step in preparing your steak for cooking is to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to around 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures the steak will start cooking immediately and creates a beautiful sear on the outside. You can also place a piece of parchment paper or a perforated air fryer liner at the bottom of the basket to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier.

Cooking the steak in the air fryer

Firstly, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This helps ensure that it cooks evenly throughout. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder and paprika.

Secondly, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F for about 5 minutes. Place a piece of parchment paper or a perforated air fryer liner at the bottom of the basket to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier.

Thirdly, place the steaks in the air fryer basket or tray. Set the air fryer to cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through for even cooking. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and how well-done you want it. For a medium-rare steak, cook for 8-15 minutes, depending on the thickness. For a thicker steak, you may need to increase the cooking time by 3-4 minutes.

Finally, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for about 4 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender, flavorful steak. You can serve the steak with sides like mashed potatoes, potato wedges, sweet potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Resting the steak

The resting period is crucial for the cooking process as it allows the steak to finish cooking. This is because the steak will continue to cook while resting, and the temperature will continue to rise. Therefore, it is recommended to cook beef to about 5 degrees below the set point and then let it rest. This will ensure the steak reaches the desired temperature and doesn't overcook.

The resting time also depends on the thickness of the steak. Thicker steaks will take longer to rest, while thinner steaks will only need a few minutes. It is important to note that the steak will continue to cook even after it is removed from the air fryer, so it is crucial to account for this when timing the resting period.

Additionally, the resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the steak. This helps to create a juicy and tender steak. Without this resting period, the juices would run out of the steak as soon as it is cut, resulting in a dry and less flavourful steak.

Finally, the resting period gives you the opportunity to prepare any sides or toppings for your steak. This could include a compound butter, such as garlic butter or Gorgonzola butter, or any other desired toppings. This ensures that your steak is served hot and juicy, with all the necessary accompaniments.

Storing and reheating the steak

Storing and reheating a T-bone steak is a simple process. If you have leftover steak, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover steak, the air fryer is a great way to reheat it. It's quick, easy, and your steak will come out hot, juicy, and tender. Here's how to do it:

• Take the steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature. This helps the steak reheat more evenly, reducing the risk of drying it out.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350-360°F (175-180°C).
• If desired, slice the steak. Slicing it will help it reheat more quickly and evenly.
• Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent a crispy crust from forming.
• Consider reseasoning the steak to enhance its flavor. A light sprinkle of salt, pepper, and your favorite steak seasoning will do the trick.
• Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 3 to 6 minutes, depending on its size and thickness. Flip the steak halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Check the steak's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C); for medium, 140°F (60°C); and for medium-well, 150°F (66°C). The USDA recommends reheating leftovers to a minimum of 165°F (74°C).
• Once the steak is done to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Wrapping it in aluminum foil will help keep it warm.
• Enjoy your juicy, tender, and flavorful leftover steak!

With these simple steps, you can transform your leftover T-bone steak into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions