Air-Fryer Pork Steak: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Cooking pork steaks in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a healthy, tasty meal. It's also a very convenient method, as it doesn't create the same mess as cooking on a stovetop. You can cook pork steaks from frozen in an air fryer, and they only take around 8-12 minutes to cook, depending on the thickness of the steak and the temperature of the fryer. To make sure your pork steaks are cooked properly, it's important to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for a medium steak is 145°F (63°C). You can season your pork steaks with a dry rub, or brush them with BBQ sauce.

Choosing the right pork steaks

Cut of Pork:

Pork steaks are typically cut from the shoulder or loin of the pig. These cuts offer a rich flavour and are ideal for air frying due to their higher fat content. When selecting pork steaks, look for cuts that are about 1-inch thick. Thicker steaks may require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts may dry out.

Bone-in or Boneless:

You can choose between bone-in and boneless pork steaks. Bone-in steaks, also known as blade steaks, have a rich flavour due to the marbling of fat and tissues. Boneless steaks, on the other hand, offer more even cooking and can be easier to work with.

Fresh or Frozen:

Air fryers can cook both fresh and frozen pork steaks. If you're short on time, fresh steaks may be a better option as they require less cooking time. Frozen steaks can be cooked directly from frozen, but they will need a slightly longer cooking time.

Quality and Source:

Opt for high-quality, fresh pork steaks from a reputable butcher or grocery store. Look for steaks with a bright pink colour and a decent amount of marbling, which indicates a higher fat content and contributes to juiciness and flavour.

Personal Preference:

Finally, consider your personal preferences. If you like a more intense pork flavour, go for ribeye pork steaks. If you prefer a leaner option, pork loin or tenderloin steaks might be a better choice. You can also choose between different seasoning blends, such as BBQ dry rubs or homemade spice blends, to find the flavours that appeal most to your taste buds.

Remember, selecting the right pork steaks is just the first step. Proper preparation, marination, and cooking techniques will also play a crucial role in creating a mouthwatering air-fried pork steak dish.

Preparing the steaks

If you are using BBQ sauce, take half of the sauce and place it in a bowl. Baste half of it on one side of the steaks. Place the pork steaks in the air fryer with the BBQ side down, then baste the top side. You can also just baste both sides outside of the air fryer.

Making a spice rub

To make a spice rub, you will need a combination of dry ingredients such as dried herbs and spices. Common ingredients used in spice rubs for pork steaks include brown sugar, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add dried sage, savoury, cilantro, cayenne pepper, and garlic granules. If you want to add a kick of heat, include some red pepper flakes or chili powder. For an earthy and warm flavour profile, consider adding cumin.

Once you have gathered your desired ingredients, simply mix them together in a small bowl. You can adjust the quantities of each ingredient to create a unique blend that suits your taste. It is recommended to make a larger batch than you need so that you can store it in an airtight container for future use. This way, you can save time and have a delicious spice rub ready to go for your next meal.

When you are ready to cook your pork steak, start by rinsing the meat and patting it dry with a paper towel. Then, coat the steak lightly with a flavourless cooking oil, such as vegetable oil or olive oil. Generously sprinkle the spice rub on both sides of the steak, ensuring it is well-coated. You can then place the steak in the air fryer and cook it according to your desired level of doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety and optimal taste.

Cooking the steaks

Firstly, remove your pork steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking so they can come to room temperature. This helps the steaks cook more evenly. If your steaks are frozen, there is no need to thaw them. Simply turn the heat up to 400°F (205°C) and cook for 8 minutes, then flip and continue to cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, season your steaks. Rinse and dry each steak with a paper towel or cloth before seasoning. You can use a homemade dry rub consisting of dried sage, savory, cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion, and garlic granules, or brown sugar, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also use a store-bought BBQ rub. Brush the steaks with oil lightly, season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle generously with your chosen rub. Make sure to cover both sides of the steaks.

Once your steaks are seasoned and your air fryer is preheated, place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 6 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 6 minutes. For thicker steaks, you may need to cook for up to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. After flipping, you can also baste the steaks with BBQ sauce if desired. Check the steaks with a cooking thermometer in the thickest portion of the steak. The steaks are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they are not fully cooked, close the air fryer and cook for a few more minutes.

Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for at least 3 minutes before serving. Baste with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer pork steaks are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to create a delicious and healthy meal. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables

For a hearty and comforting meal, serve your air fryer pork steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. You can take it up a notch by making Boursin mashed potatoes, which will add a delicious creamy and savory flavor to your dish. For a well-rounded meal, include some roasted vegetables on the side. Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice, providing a nice balance of flavors and textures.

Cowboy Butter and Green Beans

Cowboy butter is a delicious and indulgent dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with air fryer pork steak. It adds a creamy, buttery flavor to the dish. To round out your meal, include some green beans as a side. They provide a nice crunchy texture and a healthy boost of nutrients.

Buttered Cabbage and Roasted Potatoes

If you're looking for a traditional and comforting combination, serve your pork steak with buttered cabbage. The slight nuttiness of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the meat. Accompany this with some roasted potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Oven-roasted potatoes are a great option, providing a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.

Rice and Broccoli

For a healthier option, serve your pork steak with a side of steamed rice and broccoli. This combination provides a well-balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables. The rice will help soak up any delicious juices from the steak, while the broccoli adds a crunchy and nutritious element to the dish.

Baked Potato and Cowboy Butter

Another option is to pair your air fryer pork steak with a baked potato. The potato's soft and fluffy interior pairs beautifully with the juicy steak. Top it off with a generous serving of cowboy butter for an extra indulgent touch. This combination is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and you can get creative with your sides to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The versatility of air fryer pork steaks allows you to experiment with different flavors and create a variety of delicious meals.

Frequently asked questions