Air-Fryer Steak: The Perfect, Quick, Juicy Method

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that perfect sear on the outside and a juicy, tender texture on the inside. It's a great option for a weeknight dinner as it's so simple and fast, with minimal mess and stress. You can use a variety of steak cuts, including ribeye, sirloin, New York strip, or T-bone, and the process is the same: preheat the air fryer, season the steak, air fry for around 10 minutes for a medium steak, let it rest, and then serve. You can also add a herb butter for extra flavour.

Choosing the right cut of steak

• Thickness: For air frying, it is recommended to choose a steak that is at least one inch thick. Thinner steaks tend to cook too quickly and may not achieve the desired browning. A thicker steak allows for a better sear and ensures the inside remains juicy.
• Fat content: The amount of fat in a steak can impact its flavour and texture. Leaner cuts like sirloin are a good option, but you can also choose a steak with more marbling, which adds flavour and juiciness. Examples of steaks with good marbling include ribeye, New York strip, and T-bone.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, the "right" cut of steak depends on your taste preferences. If you prefer a more tender steak, a ribeye or filet might be ideal. If you like a steak with more chew, a sirloin or strip steak could be a better option.
• Availability and cost: Consider what cuts of steak are readily available in your area and fit within your budget. Some steaks, like ribeye and filet, tend to be more expensive, while others, like sirloin or flank steak, may be more affordable.
• Ribeye: Ribeye steaks have a good balance of fat and marbling, which makes them juicy and flavourful. They are tender and well-marbled, making them a popular choice for air frying.
• Sirloin: Sirloin is a leaner cut with less fat content. It is a versatile option that works well in an air fryer, especially with a dry rub to enhance flavour and browning.
• New York Strip: Also known as a strip steak or NY strip, this cut has a good balance of marbling and tenderness. It is a classic choice for steak lovers and works well in the air fryer.
• Filet: A filet, or filet mignon, is a tender and lean cut of steak. It is often considered a premium option and is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• T-bone: T-bone steaks are larger cuts that include a strip of bone separating the tenderloin and strip steak. They offer a combination of textures and flavours and can be a good choice for sharing.

Remember, when choosing the right cut of steak, consider factors such as thickness, fat content, your personal preferences, and availability. By selecting a suitable cut and following the proper air frying techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that is seared on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Getting the temperature right

To achieve a perfect medium-rare steak, cook your 1-inch thick steak at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping it halfway through. If you prefer your steak medium, cook for 12 minutes. For thicker or thinner steaks, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

It is important to note that every air fryer model is different, and they cook food quickly, so it is advisable to check the steak a few minutes early to ensure it does not overcook. An instant-read thermometer can help you monitor the steak's temperature and prevent overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare and 140°F to 145°F for medium.

Additionally, letting the steak rest for about 10 minutes after cooking is crucial. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender steak.

By following these temperature guidelines and allowing adequate resting time, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak with a crispy crust and a juicy interior.

Using the right oil

A good steak cooked in an air fryer begins with choosing the right oil. While you can use any oil you like, some are better than others for cooking steak. Here are some tips to help you choose the best oil for your air fryer steak:

• Smoke Point: One of the most important factors when choosing an oil for cooking steak in an air fryer is its smoke point. The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil starts to smoke and break down. For air frying, you'll want an oil with a high smoke point, preferably above 400°F (204°C). Oils with a lower smoke point may burn and produce undesirable flavours. Examples of oils with high smoke points include avocado oil, peanut oil, and refined olive oil.
• Flavour: Different oils have distinct flavours that can enhance your steak. For instance, avocado oil has a subtle buttery taste, while extra virgin olive oil has a fruity and peppery flavour. Choose an oil that complements the other ingredients and doesn't overpower the natural taste of the steak.
• Health Benefits: Consider the health benefits of different oils. For instance, avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, while olive oil contains antioxidants and healthy fats.
• Cost: Some specialty oils can be quite expensive. If you're cooking steak frequently, opt for a more affordable option that suits your budget.

Once you've selected the right oil, here's how to use it:

• Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking and let it come to room temperature.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear.
• Brush or rub a small amount of oil on both sides of the steak. This helps the steak brown better and promotes even cooking.
• Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favourite steak seasoning. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or a dry rub.
• Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook according to your desired doneness. For a 1-inch thick steak, cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare to medium. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak.
• After cooking, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy, tender steak.

Adding a dry rub

To make a dry rub, simply combine your chosen herbs and spices in a small bowl and mix well. For a basic dry rub, you can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also experiment with other spices and herbs, such as mustard powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

Once you have prepared your dry rub, it's time to apply it to your steak. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is important, as it ensures that the dry rub adheres properly to the meat. Next, rub a small amount of oil onto the steak. The oil will help the dry rub stick to the meat and also promote better browning during cooking.

Now, take your dry rub and generously coat all sides of the steak, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Use your fingers to gently press the rub into the meat, ensuring an even coating. Once the steak is fully coated, you can place it in the air fryer and cook according to your desired level of doneness.

The dry rub will not only add flavour to your steak but will also help to form a delicious crust during the cooking process. This crust will seal in the juices, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. So, if you're looking to elevate your steak game, adding a dry rub is definitely a step in the right direction!

Letting the steak rest

The resting period allows the juices to reincorporate back into the meat, ensuring your steak is juicy and tender. For the best results, let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes. This will give the meat time to relax and reabsorb its juices, resulting in a more flavourful and succulent steak.

While the steak is resting, you can prepare any sides or sauces to accompany your meal. This is also a good time to prepare any herbs or seasonings that you plan to add to your steak before serving.

It's important to note that the steak will continue to cook slightly during the resting period, so if you're aiming for a specific internal temperature, remove the steak from the air fryer about five degrees before your desired doneness. For example, if you're aiming for a medium-rare steak with an internal temperature of 130°F, remove it from the air fryer when it reaches 125°F, as it will continue to cook while resting.

By letting the steak rest, you'll ensure that the juices are evenly distributed throughout the meat, resulting in a perfectly cooked, juicy steak. This step is crucial in the process of making the perfect steak in an air fryer, so don't skip it!

Frequently asked questions