Air Fryer Steak: Can You Do It?

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook steak, producing a juicy texture and extra flavour. They are easy to use, requiring little preparation and offering a hands-off cooking method. However, air fryers have limitations when it comes to steak, including size restrictions and an inability to baste the meat.

Steak type and thickness

The best cuts of steak for the air fryer include New York strip, ribeye, porterhouse, t-bone, top sirloin, filet mignon, and tri-tip. These cuts require minimal attention during cooking, making them ideal for the air fryer. It is recommended to choose steaks that are at least 1-inch thick. Thinner steaks may cook too quickly and not allow enough time for browning to occur.

For example, a 1-inch thick ribeye, New York, or tri-tip steak will take around 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer for a medium level of doneness. A similar steak cooked to medium-rare would take around 10 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak. Thicker steaks will require a longer cooking time, while thinner steaks may be prone to overcooking. Therefore, it is advisable to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired level of doneness.

Oil and seasoning

The oil and seasoning you use on your steak will be key to achieving a well-cooked, tasty air-fried steak.

Firstly, the type of oil you use is important. Olive oil is a good option as it has a mild flavour and is a healthy, neutral oil. However, you could also use butter or another neutral oil if you prefer.

When it comes to seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or you can add other seasonings to give your steak a flavour boost. A simple option is to use Italian seasoning, which is a classic blend of herbs and spices that pairs well with steak. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a more subtle flavour and colour.

If you want to get creative, you can make a dry rub for your steak using a combination of spices like garlic powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper. This will give your steak a nice crust and add extra flavour. You could also add a pinch of sugar to balance the salty flavours and give it a gorgeous caramelized crust.

For a more intense flavour, you can marinate your steak in a dressing or marinade before cooking. This will give the steak a juicy flavour punch. You can also serve your steak with a compound butter, like garlic herb butter, which will melt into the meat and add extra richness and flavour.

• Start with a thick steak: Choose a steak that is at least 1-inch thick, as thinner steaks may overcook and become chewy.
• Pat the steak dry: Before adding any oil or seasoning, make sure to pat the steak dry with paper towels. This will help the steak brown properly.
• Add oil: Rub a little oil on both sides of the steak. This will help the steak brown and also ensure that your seasonings stick properly.
• Season generously: Apply your chosen seasonings generously to both sides of the steak. Don't be shy, as this will really enhance the flavour.
• Let it rest: After oiling and seasoning, let the steak come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will help ensure even cooking and improve the texture and flavour of the steak.
• Cook according to your air fryer's instructions: Different air fryers may have varying results, so adjust the cooking time as needed. As a guide, cook a 1-inch steak at 400°F for 10 minutes for medium-rare, or 12 minutes for medium, flipping the steak halfway through.
• Rest and serve: After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender, juicy steak.

Feel free to experiment with different oils, seasonings, and techniques to find the combination that works best for your taste preferences. Enjoy your perfectly cooked air-fried steak!

Temperature and timing

The ideal temperature for cooking steak in an air fryer is 400°F. This temperature is hot enough to encourage browning and create a crispy crust on the outside of the steak. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer to this temperature before adding the steak.

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. It is best to cook the steak to an internal temperature rather than relying solely on time. A meat thermometer can be used to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, the cooking time will be around 10-12 minutes for medium-rare to medium. For thicker steaks, the cooking time will need to be increased accordingly.

For a rare steak, the internal temperature should be between 125°F and 130°F. A medium-rare steak should have an internal temperature of 130°F-140°F. A medium steak should be cooked to 140°F-150°F, and a well-done steak should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. It is important to note that the steak will continue to cook for a few minutes after being removed from the air fryer, so it is recommended to remove it 5-6 degrees before the desired doneness temperature is reached.

The steak should be flipped halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides. It is also important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket and to leave some space between the steaks for optimal airflow and even cooking.

Resting and serving

Resting the steak is an essential step in the cooking process. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy final product. The steak should rest for about five minutes before slicing or serving. During this time, cover the steak loosely with aluminium foil to retain warmth. When ready, slice the steak against the grain to maximise tenderness.

The steak can be served with a variety of sides. Some suggestions include salads, potatoes, asparagus, green beans, and French fries. For a more comforting meal, the steak can be topped with creamy sauces such as alfredo sauce, cheese sauce, or gravy.

Pros and cons of air frying steak

Air fryers are a popular alternative to traditional frying methods, offering a healthier and more convenient way of cooking. But are they suitable for steak? Here are some pros and cons of air frying steak to help you decide if it's the right method for you.

Pros:

• Convenience: Air fryers allow you to cook frozen steak without defrosting, saving time and effort.
• Even Cooking: The hot air circulation in air fryers ensures even cooking, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.
• Healthier Option: Air fryers require little to no oil, reducing the amount of unhealthy fats associated with traditional frying methods.
• Quick Cooking Time: Air fryers significantly reduce cooking time compared to oven baking or stovetop cooking.
• Simplicity: Air frying steak is simple and hands-off, with less guesswork involved in timing and temperature control.
• Versatility: You can cook a variety of steak cuts in an air fryer, including ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon.
• Customizability: You can season your steak to your liking and even add a marinade for extra flavor.
• Cleanliness: Air frying steak creates no splatter or mess in the kitchen.

Cons:

• Texture: Air-fried steak may have a slightly chewier texture compared to other cooking methods.
• Limited Capacity: Air fryers typically have smaller cooking baskets, limiting the number of steaks you can cook at once.
• Temperature Control: Air fryers have preset temperature settings, which may not offer the precise control desired by some cooks.
• Overcooking Risk: Due to the quick cooking time, there is a risk of overcooking the steak if the timing is not accurately managed.

Frequently asked questions