Reheating Steak: Air Fryer Magic

Yes, you can reheat steak in an air fryer! This method is faster than using an oven, and you don't have to sear the steak at the end. It's also much better than using a microwave, which can overcook your steak and leave it dry and rubbery.

To reheat your steak in an air fryer, first, let it come to room temperature. Then, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Brush or spray the steak with oil, and place it in the basket. Cook for 2-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You can also finish it with a pat of butter for some extra moisture.

How to prepare the steak for reheating

Preparing your steak for reheating is a crucial step in ensuring that your leftover steak maintains its flavour, moisture, and texture. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your steak for reheating in the air fryer:

Bring the Steak to Room Temperature:

Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps the steak reheat more evenly, preventing the outer layer from overcooking before the inside is warmed. Allowing the steak to reach room temperature also promotes even cooking, resulting in a more tender texture.

Pat the Steak Dry:

Use a paper towel to gently blot any excess moisture from the steak's surface. This step is important because too much moisture can hinder the crisping process, and you want to achieve that perfect sear on the outside.

Reseason the Steak (Optional):

Before placing the steak in the air fryer, you can enhance its flavour by reseasoning it. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper, along with your favourite steak seasoning, can refresh the taste and elevate your dining experience.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the cooking environment is ready to receive the steak, promoting even heating and moisture retention.

Arrange the Steak in the Air Fryer Basket:

Place the steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring proper spacing between them. This arrangement allows for proper air circulation, which is critical to achieving a crispy exterior.

Set the Temperature and Time:

Set the air fryer's temperature to 350°F (175°C) again, and determine the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak. For medium-rare to medium doneness, start with 3-4 minutes per side and adjust as needed.

Now that your steak is prepared and ready for the air fryer, follow the reheating instructions provided earlier to enjoy your juicy and tender leftover steak!

The benefits of using an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat steak in the air fryer. It is one of the best methods for reviving yesterday's steaks. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer:

Health Benefits

Air fryers are a healthier alternative to deep frying. They use little to no oil, cutting down on calories and fat. Research has shown that air frying can lower the amount of acrylamide—a chemical linked to cancer—in fried potatoes by 90%.

Taste and Texture

Despite using minimal oil, air fryers still deliver the taste and texture of deep-fried food. They create a crispy, golden-brown coating and keep the inside soft and moist.

Speed and Convenience

Air fryers are faster than ovens, taking only a few minutes to cook or reheat food. They are also easy to clean and don't require preheating, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Versatility

Air fryers can cook a wide variety of foods, including meat, vegetables, and desserts. They can be used for frying, baking, grilling, roasting, and heating up leftovers.

Energy Efficiency

Air fryers are more energy-efficient than traditional ovens and stovetops, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money on your electricity bill.

Step-by-step guide to reheating steak in an air fryer

Preparation:

Before reheating your steak, it is important to bring it to room temperature. This can take up to an hour and ensures the steak cooks evenly, preventing the outer layer from overcooking before the inside is warmed.

You can also pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can affect the crisping process.

Air Fryer Settings:

Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C). This step is important as it prepares the cooking environment, allowing the steak to heat evenly and retain moisture.

Cooking the Steak:

Place the steak in the air fryer basket. For best results, arrange the steak in a single layer, ensuring proper air circulation.

Cooking time will depend on the thickness and your preferred level of doneness. As a guide, start with 3-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare to medium steak. Flip the steak halfway through to guarantee uniform cooking.

Keep a close eye on the steak to prevent overcooking, as air fryers work efficiently and quickly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium-well.

Resting:

Once the steak has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to spread evenly, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.

Serving:

Your steak is now ready to be served and enjoyed! You can slice the steak and serve it with your favourite sides, such as baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, or green beans.

Tips:

• You can enhance the flavour of your reheated steak by reseasoning it with a light sprinkle of salt, pepper, and your favourite steak seasoning.
• For a crispier texture, brush or spray the steak with oil before placing it in the air fryer.
• Placing a pat of butter on the steak will add extra moisture.
• If your steak is not reheated enough to your liking, you can add 2-3 minutes of cooking time at a lower temperature (around 320°F) to avoid overcooking.

Tips for the juiciest reheated steak

To ensure your steak stays juicy when reheating it in the air fryer, follow these tips:

• Allow the steak to come to room temperature before reheating. Taking it out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking will help it cook quicker, reducing the risk of it drying out.
• Slice the steak before reheating. This will help it cook more evenly, reducing the risk of drying it out.
• Preheat the air fryer. This ensures even heating from the start of the cooking process.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. This will help ensure you don't overcook the steak, which will dry it out.
• Allow the steak to rest. Remove the steak from the air fryer just before it reaches your desired temperature and wrap it in aluminium foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Don't reheat more than once. Reheating steak multiple times will negatively impact the taste and texture.

What to serve with reheated steak

So, you've reheated your steak in the air fryer and now you're wondering what to serve with it? Here are some ideas for sides to accompany your juicy steak:

Vegetables

• Grilled or roasted asparagus
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Roasted broccoli
• Grilled broccolini
• Roasted garlic
• Sauteed mushrooms
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Roasted carrots
• Roasted cauliflower
• Baked tomato
• Roasted onion
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Green salad
• Wedge salad
• Slaw

Starch

• Loaded baked potato
• Mashed potatoes
• French fries
• Potato wedges
• Sweet potato fries
• Potato salad
• Baked skinny fries
• Smashed potatoes
• Potato dauphinoise
• Mac 'n' cheese
• Rice

Sauce

• Béarnaise sauce
• Chimichurri sauce
• Barbecue sauce
• Red wine sauce
• Peppercorn sauce
• Hollandaise sauce
• Watercress, hazelnut and red chilli pesto

Extras

• Avocado
• Refried beans
• Soured cream
• Onion rings

Frequently asked questions