Air Fryer Magic: Perfect Bottom Round Steak

Bottom round steak, also known as Bottom Round London Broil, rump roast, or bottom round roast, is a tasty cut of meat that can be cooked in an air fryer. Air-fried steak is a quick and easy alternative to firing up the outdoor grill, and you can use almost any cut of steak. The circulating heat of the air fryer ensures a tender and juicy steak with a crisp, caramelized crust. The cooking time is short, and the steak is cooked to perfection.

Seasoning and coating

To season and coat your bottom round steak, start by patting it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick to the steak. Then, take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes. This will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat and ensure even cooking and better browning.

When it comes to seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or you can get creative with your favorite steak seasoning blend. If you want to add some extra flavor, you can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried basil. You can also experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or sage. Be generous with the seasoning and make sure to coat all sides of the steak.

Once the steak is thoroughly seasoned, apply a thin layer of oil to the steak using a basting brush or a spray bottle. This will help create a crisp exterior and lock in the natural juices of the meat. Make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or refined olive oil.

If you want an extra crispy coating, you can also try dredging the steak in a light coating of flour or bread crumbs after applying the oil. This will create a thicker crust that can be especially delicious if you're aiming for a crunchy texture.

Temperature and timing

The cooking time for bottom round steak in an air fryer depends on the level of doneness you desire. For a medium-rare steak, you should air fry for around 7-8 minutes, while a well-done steak will take around 12 minutes. The thickness of your steak will also impact the cooking time, with thinner steaks cooking faster and thicker steaks taking longer. Therefore, it is important to keep a close eye on your steak while it is cooking and adjust the timing accordingly.

To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of a rare steak should be 125°F (around 52°C), while a medium-rare steak should be 135°F (around 57°C). If you prefer your steak to be medium-well, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (around 63°C).

When cooking bottom round steak in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer for at least 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Then, set the temperature to between 360°F and 400°F (around 180°C to 200°C). For a nicely browned exterior, some recipes suggest starting at a higher temperature of 390°F (around 200°C) for the first 8 minutes, and then lowering the temperature to 330°F (around 165°C) for the remaining cooking time.

It is important to flip your steak halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking on both sides. Additionally, you can brush your steak with oil and season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before placing it in the air fryer.

Using a meat thermometer

The temperature of your steak will depend on the thickness of the meat and the heat of your air fryer, so it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. Insert the probe into the middle of the steak to get an accurate reading.

When cooking a bottom round steak, you will need to cook each half separately, as the steak will need to be cut in half to fit in the air fryer. This means you can cook each half to the preference of the person who will be eating it.

As a general rule, thinner steaks will cook faster than thicker ones. You should also check the steak often during cooking, as air fryers cook at an even heat, and the steak can go from perfectly cooked to overdone very quickly.

Clean-up

Once you've devoured your delicious steak, it's time to tackle the clean-up. The good news is that air fryers are known for being easy to clean. Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your air fryer after cooking bottom round steak:

• Unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool down completely. It's important to never attempt to clean a hot air fryer for safety reasons.
• Remove any large pieces of food residue or debris from the air fryer basket and drip tray. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a paper towel to gently wipe away any remaining bits of steak or seasoning.
• Fill the sink with warm water and add a mild dish soap. Take out the air fryer basket and drip tray and let them soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen any remaining grease or food particles.
• Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to gently wash the basket and drip tray. Avoid using harsh scrubbers or steel wool, as these can scratch the coating on your air fryer.
• Rinse the basket and drip tray thoroughly with clean water to ensure all soap residue is removed.
• Dry the basket and drip tray with a soft cloth or let them air dry completely before putting them back into the air fryer.
• Wipe down the exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Be careful not to get water into any vents or heating elements.
• If there is stubborn, burnt-on food residue, create a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
• For the air fryer basket, you can also use parchment paper or foil to catch any drippings and make clean-up even easier next time.
• Finally, don't forget to clean your meat thermometer and any other utensils you used during the cooking process.

By following these steps, your air fryer will be clean, sanitised, and ready for your next culinary adventure.

Side dishes

There are several side dishes you can serve with your bottom round steak cooked in an air fryer. Here are some options:

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, and green beans are a nutritious and delicious complement to your steak. You can cook them in the air fryer alongside the steak for a quick and easy meal.

Salads

A simple salad with roasted beets, goat cheese, and pecans, or a mixed green salad with fruit and nuts, can be a fresh and tasty addition to your steak dinner. You can also add a variety of dressings or marinades to your salad for an extra flavor boost.

Potatoes

Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes are classic side dishes that go well with steak. For an indulgent touch, you can even serve them with garlic herb butter or compound butter.

Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms with garlic are another option to consider. They will add a savory note to your meal.

Other Sides

Some other simple side dish ideas include French fries, chicken breast or thighs, pork chops, salmon, or chicken drumsticks.

Remember, the key to a successful air fryer meal is to ensure even cooking and to allow your steak to rest before slicing, so the juices can redistribute. With these side dish options and your perfectly cooked bottom round steak, you'll have a delicious and impressive meal.

Frequently asked questions