Air Fryer London Broil: Quick & Juicy Steak In 20 Minutes

London broil, a versatile cut of meat, can be cooked to perfection in your air fryer, offering a quick and tasty alternative to traditional grilling. This method allows you to achieve a tender and juicy result with a crispy exterior, all while being ready in a fraction of the time. By following a few simple steps, you can master the art of cooking london broil in your air fryer, making it a convenient and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan.

Preheat: Set air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes

To begin cooking your London broil in the air fryer, it's crucial to start with a preheating step to ensure even cooking and optimal results. Preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) is essential for achieving a perfectly cooked steak. This temperature setting is ideal for searing the meat and locking in its juices.

Set your air fryer to this temperature and allow it to preheat for approximately 5 minutes. This initial step is often overlooked but plays a significant role in the overall cooking process. During this time, the hot air circulates inside the fryer, creating a cooking environment that will help you achieve a beautifully browned and tender steak.

While the air fryer preheats, you can prepare your London broil by trimming any excess fat and seasoning it with your preferred spices or marinades. This step adds flavor and helps create a delicious crust. Remember, the preheating process is a critical phase that sets the foundation for the rest of the cooking procedure.

Once the air fryer reaches the desired temperature, you're ready to proceed with the cooking instructions. Place the seasoned London broil inside the fryer, ensuring it is in a single layer to allow for even heat distribution. Cook the steak for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until it reaches your desired doneness.

This preheating technique is a simple yet effective method to enhance the quality of your air-fried London broil, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak every time.

Season: Coat with oil and season with salt and pepper

When preparing London broil in an air fryer, the initial step is crucial for flavor and texture. Start by ensuring your London broil is at room temperature. This allows for even cooking throughout. Then, generously coat the meat with a high-quality oil. You can use any neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil. The oil helps to create a barrier, preventing the meat from drying out during the cooking process.

After coating with oil, it's time for seasoning. Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. Start with a generous pinch of salt. Salt not only adds flavor but also helps to break down the meat's proteins, making it more tender. You can use fine sea salt or kosher salt for this purpose. Then, add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pepper adds a slightly spicy and aromatic note to the meat. Remember, a little goes a long way with pepper, so adjust the amount to your preference.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can also consider other spices or herbs. A sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. Alternatively, a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can provide a savory kick. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite. The goal is to create a flavorful crust that will seal in the juices and create a mouth-watering exterior.

Once the meat is well-coated with oil and seasoned to your liking, you're ready for the next step. Preheat your air fryer to the appropriate temperature, typically around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This temperature range is ideal for cooking London broil, ensuring it cooks evenly and quickly. Place the seasoned meat in the air fryer basket, making sure it's not overcrowded. If you're cooking multiple pieces, ensure they have enough space to cook without steaming.

Finally, cook the London broil according to your air fryer's instructions. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the meat and your desired doneness. As a general guideline, cook for about 8-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C) for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.

Place: Put the broil in the air fryer basket

When preparing London broil in an air fryer, the placement of the meat is crucial for even cooking and browning. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to place the broil in the air fryer basket:

Start by preheating your air fryer to the desired temperature. London broil is typically cooked at a higher temperature, around 375-400°F (190-200°C), but you can adjust this based on your air fryer's settings and the thickness of the meat. While the air fryer is heating up, prepare the broil by trimming any excess fat and seasoning it with your choice of spices or marinades. This step enhances the flavor and can also help create a crispy exterior.

Now, it's time to place the meat in the air fryer basket. Take a large piece of London broil and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and helps to create a crispy texture. Place the broil in the center of the air fryer basket, making sure there is enough space for the hot air to circulate. If your air fryer has a removable basket, you can place the meat directly on it. For models with a fixed basket, consider using an air fryer rack to elevate the meat, allowing hot air to circulate freely.

Once the broil is in the basket, close the air fryer lid or cover. Set the timer for the desired cooking time, which can vary depending on the thickness and your desired doneness. For a medium-rare London broil, cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping the meat halfway through. Remember, cooking times may vary, so always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness.

After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and use tongs to flip the broil one last time. This ensures an even cook on both sides. Then, carefully transfer the cooked London broil to a cutting board or a serving platter. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

By following these steps, you can effectively place and cook your London broil in the air fryer, resulting in a delicious, tender cut of meat with a crispy exterior. Enjoy your air-fried culinary adventure!

Cook: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway

To cook London broil in your air fryer, follow these steps for a delicious and quick meal. First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a perfect sear and tenderizing the meat. Prepare your London broil by trimming any excess fat and cutting it into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice. A simple rub of garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt can add a nice flavor boost.

Place the seasoned London broil pieces in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You can cook them in batches if needed. Close the air fryer door and set the timer for 8-10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the meat and your air fryer, so keep an eye on it. After 4 minutes, flip the meat pieces over using tongs or a spatula. This step is crucial for creating a beautiful, even cook and preventing the meat from drying out.

Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the London broil from the air fryer. The internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare, or adjust the temperature to your desired doneness. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender cut.

Slicing against the grain is essential for the most tender London broil. Use a sharp knife to cut the meat into thin strips, then arrange the slices on a serving platter. Serve immediately, and consider pairing it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This cooking method in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a flavorful London broil without the need for extensive oven time.

Rest: Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing

After you've finished cooking your London broil in the air fryer, it's crucial to let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step is often overlooked but is essential for achieving the perfect cut and ensuring the meat is tender and juicy. Here's why and how to do it:

Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each slice is moist and flavorful. When you cut into the meat immediately after cooking, the juices tend to run out, resulting in a dry and less appealing piece of meat. By letting it rest, you're essentially giving the meat a chance to 'set' and retain its moisture. This process is similar to what happens when you let a roast rest after roasting; the juices are reabsorbed, making the meat more succulent.

The resting time is typically around 5 minutes per side of the meat. For a 1-inch thick London broil, this means resting for about 10 minutes in total. During this time, cover the meat loosely with foil or a plate to keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute. You can also use this time to prepare any sides or sauces you plan to serve with the meat.

While the meat is resting, you can also use this opportunity to plate your dish. Place the sliced London broil on a serving platter, and consider arranging it alongside some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also ensures that the meat stays warm and flavorful until everyone is ready to eat.

Remember, the key to a successful London broil is patience. Allowing the meat to rest properly will result in a more enjoyable dining experience. So, take that 10 minutes, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious, tender cut of meat that your guests will love.

Frequently asked questions