Air-Fryer Round Steak: Tender, Quick, And Delicious!

Cooking tenderized round steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a juicy and tender steak with a crisp, caramelized crust. The circulating heat of the air fryer ensures even cooking and keeps all the juices in, while the natural juices of the meat are locked in. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the cut and your desired level of doneness, but on average, it takes 12-15 minutes to cook a round steak in an air fryer.

Choosing the right cut of steak

Thickness: The thickness of the steak will impact the cooking time and evenness of cooking. Opt for a steak that is at least 1 inch thick, as thinner steaks may overcook, while thicker ones may take longer to cook through.

Marbling: Marbling refers to the fat content within the meat, and it affects the juiciness and flavor of the steak. Look for steaks with good marbling, like ribeye, which has white flecks of fat dispersed throughout.

Tenderness: Different cuts of steak offer varying levels of tenderness. For a naturally tender option, choose filet mignon, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you prefer a tougher cut that requires tenderizing, try the top round, also known as London broil.

Personal preference: Consider your own taste preferences. Do you like your steak juicy and tender, or do you prefer a leaner, firmer texture? Choose a cut that aligns with your desired outcome.

Cooking time: If you're short on time, choose a thinner cut of steak, such as eye of round, which cooks faster. Thicker cuts, like a New York strip, may take longer to cook but can offer a more substantial bite.

Doneness: How you like your steak done will also influence your choice of cut. For example, flank steak is best enjoyed rare, medium-rare, or medium, as it can become chewy when overcooked. On the other hand, ribeye is versatile and can be cooked to your desired doneness.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right cut of steak for your air fryer, ensuring a delicious and perfectly cooked meal every time.

Tenderizing the meat

Tenderizing meat is the process of making it more tender by breaking down its connective tissue. Tougher cuts of steak with a lot of connective tissue benefit from tenderizing to help break down the muscle fibers, making the meat easier to cook, cut, and eat.

There are several ways to tenderize meat, including:

• Pounding: Using a meat mallet or kitchen mallet to pound steaks helps to soften and tenderize the meat. Place the meat between pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper and pound it before cooking. The mallet's flattening side helps create a uniform thickness, so the steak cooks more evenly.
• Marinating: Soaking the meat in a marinade made from acidic components such as citrus juice, Greek yogurt, or cola can help break down the connective tissue and tenderize the meat. Marinades should also include oil and seasoning.
• Slow cooking: Cooking the meat slowly over a low heat can help to break down the connective tissue and tenderize the meat.
• Brining: Dry brining with salt can help draw out the moisture from the meat, then soak and lock it back in, ensuring a tender piece. Wet brining with a saltwater solution can also help tenderize the meat, but it may take longer.
• Baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a dry brine or in a wet brine with water to neutralize the acid on the surface of the meat, resulting in less toughness and a juicy interior. It can also be used in a cornstarch-based slurry to marinate and tenderize the meat before cooking.

Seasoning and marinating

Preparing the Steak:

Before you begin seasoning, it is important to prepare your steak. Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes. This step helps the steak cook more evenly and allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat better. You can also trim any unwanted fat from the steak at this point.

Pat the Steak Dry:

Use a paper towel to pat the steak dry before seasoning it. Removing any excess moisture will help the seasonings adhere better to the surface of the meat.

Basic Seasonings:

For a simple yet classic flavour, season your steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results. If you want to add a bit more flavour without overwhelming the natural taste of the steak, consider using steak spice blends or your favourite steak seasoning.

Oil:

Brush both sides of the steak with oil. This will help the seasonings stick to the meat and also promote browning during cooking. You can use olive oil, butter, or any other neutral oil you prefer.

Marinades and Additional Seasonings:

If you have more time and want to add extra flavour to your steak, consider marinating it. Round steaks are perfect for marinating as they soak up flavours well. You can use a store-bought steak marinade or create your own by combining ingredients like garlic, rosemary, butter, and spices. Experiment with different combinations, such as garlic powder, Montreal steak seasoning, or Cajun seasoning. For a juicy flavour punch, you can also marinate the steak in dressing.

Additionally, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the salty flavours and promote caramelization. If you're looking for a smoky flavour, try incorporating spices like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper.

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for tenderized round steak in an air fryer will depend on how well you want your steak cooked. As a general rule, the thinner the cut, the faster your steak will cook. Most sources recommend cooking your steak in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 15 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.

For a medium-rare steak, cook for 7 to 8 minutes. The internal temperature of the steak should be between 130ºF to 135ºF.

For a well-done steak, cook for 12 to 15 minutes. The USDA suggests that an internal temperature of 145°F is safe for consumption.

To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer round steak can be served with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:

• Salads: A fresh and light option to pair with the hearty steak. Consider a bell pepper salad, tortellini pesto salad, or a mixed green salad with fruit and nuts.
• Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes, roasted red potatoes, or French fries are all delicious options that can be easily prepared in the air fryer alongside the steak.
• Vegetables: Green beans, asparagus, or grilled vegetables like peppers and onions would make a great addition to the plate.
• Carb-loaded options: Potato pancakes topped with sour cream and chives or a hearty pile of French fries will satisfy any carb cravings.
• Risotto: A super tasty and versatile side dish that goes with everything.
• Simple seasonings: Keep it classic with salt and pepper, or experiment with garlic powder, Montreal steak seasoning, or Cajun seasoning.
• Sauces: For a comforting meal, serve the steak with creamy sauces like alfredo, cheese, or gravy.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give your steak a spicy twist.

Remember, the beauty of an air fryer round steak is its versatility. You can serve it with a simple side for a no-frills meal or as part of a larger feast. Enjoy experimenting with different serving suggestions to find your favorite combinations!

Frequently asked questions