Cooking steak in an air fryer can result in a juicy and flavorful dish with a crispy exterior. Here’s a simple recipe for cooking sirloin steak in an air fryer:
Ingredients:
- 2 sirloin steaks (about 8 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, etc.
Instructions:
- Prep the Steak:
- Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help with browning.
- Seasoning:
- Rub both sides of each steak with olive oil.
- Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Be generous with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cooking:
- Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them for air circulation.
- Cook the steaks for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness.
- Check for Doneness:
- To check the doneness of the steaks, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach:
- 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
- 135°F (57°C) for medium
- Adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve your desired level of doneness.
- To check the doneness of the steaks, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach:
- Resting:
- Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices for a more tender result.
- Serve:
- After resting, slice the steaks against the grain and serve them with your favorite side dishes.
Notes:
- Thickness Matters: Thicker steaks will require more cooking time, while thinner steaks will cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary.
- Oil: Using a small amount of oil helps with browning and enhances the flavor. However, excessive oil can cause smoke in the air fryer. Be mindful of the quantity.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to customize the flavor of your steak.
- Monitor Carefully: Cooking times can vary based on the air fryer model and steak thickness. Keep an eye on the steaks to prevent overcooking.