Steak lovers, rejoice! Air Fryer Steak is a game-changing way to cook a delicious, juicy steak in less time and with minimal effort. The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook the steak evenly on all sides, giving it a beautifully seared crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Plus, it’s super easy and doesn’t require any special skills or equipment—just your air fryer and a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal, this method will give you a steakhouse-quality steak in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1-2 steaks (ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, New York strip—your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme, optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help create a nice sear on the surface.
- Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil or melted butter. This helps with browning and gives the steak a rich flavor.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh herbs if you like. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the steak cooks evenly and helps achieve a crispy crust.
- Cook the Steak:
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation. If you’re cooking more than one steak, cook them in batches if necessary.
- For a medium-rare steak, cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. For medium, cook for about 10-12 minutes, and for well-done, cook for 12-14 minutes. These times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and the type of air fryer you’re using, so it’s always a good idea to check with a meat thermometer.
- Tip: The internal temperature for medium-rare is about 130°F (54°C), medium is 140°F (60°C), and well-done is 160°F (71°C).
- Rest the Steak:
- After cooking, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board or plate for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
- Optional Butter Finish:
- If you like your steak extra rich and flavorful, place a small dollop of butter on top of each steak while it rests. The butter will melt and add a luscious finish to your steak.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve your perfectly cooked air fryer steak with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Choose Your Steak Cut: Ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip steaks work particularly well in the air fryer. They have enough fat to stay juicy and tender. Filet mignon is also a great option if you prefer a leaner cut.
- Thickness Matters: The thickness of your steak will affect the cooking time. Thicker steaks (1.5-2 inches) will need a few extra minutes to cook. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to get creative with your seasoning. For a classic steakhouse flavor, you can add a sprinkle of steak seasoning or even marinate the steak beforehand for added depth.
- Air Fryer Variations: Air fryers can vary in how they cook, so check the steak a couple of minutes before the recommended time to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Some air fryers have a “steak” setting, which can be helpful for beginners.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 steak – ribeye, ~8 oz):
- Calories: ~600 kcal
- Protein: ~50g
- Fat: ~45g
- Carbs: ~0g
- Fiber: ~0g
- WW Points: 12 points (depending on cut of meat and added oil/butter)
Why Air Fryer Steak?
Cooking steak in the air fryer results in a perfect combination of a crispy, seared exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The beauty of the air fryer lies in its ability to cook the steak quickly and evenly while retaining moisture. Plus, you get the added benefit of less mess and no need to deal with hot pans or splattering oil. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Air Fryer Steak is a foolproof way to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak with minimal effort and cleanup!
