Air-Frying T-Bone Steaks: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

The air fryer has emerged as a versatile kitchen appliance, revolutionizing the way people cook and prepare steak. Air fryers utilize hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This makes them a great option for cooking steaks, including T-bone steaks, which are known for their rich flavor and tenderness. With the air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly cooked T-bone steak with a seared crust and a juicy, tender interior, all without the need for a grill or stovetop pan. The air fryer's ability to cook the meat evenly, even near the bone, has made it a favorite method for steak enthusiasts, and its ease of use and quick cleanup make it a convenient choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious steak dinner.

Selecting the right cut of meat

To combat this, it is recommended to select a steak with a higher degree of marbling, such as a ribeye or strip steak. These cuts have more fat content, which helps to retain moisture and results in a more flavourful and juicy steak. Additionally, choosing a steak with a minimum thickness of 1 inch is advised. Thinner steaks tend to cook faster and can go from rare to well-done in a matter of minutes. A thicker steak provides more leeway in terms of cooking time, allowing for better control over the desired doneness.

When selecting a steak for air frying, it is also important to consider the type of bone, if any. A T-bone steak, for example, is a popular bone-in cut that offers a combination of two different steaks: the filet mignon and the New York strip. The filet mignon side is more tender, while the strip side has a beefier flavour. However, the presence of the bone can impact cooking time, as bone-in steaks may cook faster.

It is worth noting that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right cut of meat. Some individuals may prefer the tenderness of a filet mignon, while others might opt for the bolder flavour of a strip steak. Additionally, factors such as availability, budget, and desired serving size should be considered when making a selection.

Lastly, it is important to remember that air fryers can vary in terms of temperature accuracy and performance. As such, it is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak and adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired doneness.

Preparing the steak before cooking

Rest the Steak:

Let the steak come to room temperature by resting it on a counter or cutting board for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This step is important because it ensures that the steak will cook more evenly.

Pat the Steak Dry:

Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry. This helps the seasonings adhere better to the surface of the meat.

Brush with Oil:

Lightly brush both sides of the steak with olive oil or another cooking oil of your choice. This step not only helps with the seasoning but also prevents the steak from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Season Generously:

Combine salt, black pepper, and your choice of additional seasonings in a small bowl. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the steak and pat gently to ensure it sticks. Don't be shy with the seasoning, as this will enhance the flavor of your steak.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This step ensures that your steak will start cooking immediately and helps create a perfect sear.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:

Place a piece of parchment paper or a perforated air fryer liner at the bottom of the basket. This step is optional but highly recommended as it helps catch any drippings and makes cleanup much easier.

Now that your steak and air fryer are prepared, you are ready to start cooking your T-bone steak to perfection!

Cooking the steak

Select a T-bone steak with marbling for a rich flavour and tenderness. Aim for a steak that is at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking and a juicy interior.

Before cooking, pat the steak dry with a paper towel and let it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the steak to cook more evenly. Brush the steak with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper as desired.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). 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. Place the steak in the air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) with full air circulation. For a 1.5-inch (4 cm) thick steak, cook for 7 minutes on the first side and 6 minutes on the second side for a medium-rare steak. Flip the steak once halfway through for the most even result.

Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer, wrap it in foil, and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. Top with grass-fed butter, garlic butter, or a delicious horseradish aioli. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender T-bone steak!

Resting the steak

Resting your steak is an important step in the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.

Firstly, bring your steak to room temperature. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly. Then, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Brush the steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 4 minutes. After 4 minutes, flip the steak and cook for another 4 minutes for a medium-rare steak. If you prefer your steak more well done, cook for an additional 2-4 minutes.

Once your steak is done, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This will give the juices a chance to redistribute and result in a more tender steak. The temperature of the steak will rise by about 5-7°F (2-3°C) while resting.

After resting, slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your perfectly cooked T-bone steak!

Reheating the steak

T-bone steak can be cooked in an air fryer and it can be reheated in an air fryer as well. Reheating the steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, it is important to let the steak rest and reach room temperature before cooking. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly. Ideally, the steak should be left on the counter or a cutting board for 15-20 minutes.

Secondly, preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Preheating the air fryer ensures that the steak starts cooking immediately, creating a perfect sear. It is also recommended to 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 steak in the air fryer and reheat for 5-6 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the specific model of the air fryer. For a 1.5-inch (4 cm) thick T-bone steak, 5-6 minutes at 360°F (180°C) should be sufficient. However, it is important to note that the internal temperature will remain the same regardless of the thickness.

Finally, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Wrapping it in foil will help keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.

Reheating a T-bone steak in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a delicious and juicy steak without having to start from scratch. The air fryer's hot air circulation cooks the meat evenly, ensuring a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil.

Frequently asked questions