Air Fryer Steak Recipe
Description
Cooking steak in the air fryer is a game-changer! It delivers a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seared steak in less time than traditional methods. With a crispy outer crust and tender, juicy interior, air fryer steak is a foolproof way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steaks (1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for aroma)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
- Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to help create a crispy crust.
- Rub both sides of the steaks with olive oil or melted butter.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for:
- Medium-Rare: 8-9 minutes
- Medium: 10-11 minutes
- Medium-Well: 12-14 minutes
- Flip the steaks halfway through cooking.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Remove the steaks and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Top with a pat of butter and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Recipe Notes
- Best Steaks for Air Frying: Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, and New York strip work well.
- Room Temperature Meat: Ensures even cooking and better texture.
- Resting Time: Always let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steak
✅ Use a Meat Thermometer – For precise doneness:
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F
- Well-Done: 160°F+
✅ Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Ensure even air circulation for a good sear.
✅ Enhance the Flavor – Marinate or use compound butter with garlic and herbs.
✅ Let it Rest – Cutting too soon will cause juices to escape, making the steak dry.
✅ Add a Crust – Use a small amount of butter before air frying for extra crispiness.
Servings
- Serves 2 people
- Easily scalable by adjusting steak quantity and cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350-450 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
(Values may vary based on steak cut and seasoning used.)
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Steak
✔ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
✔ Lower Fat Content – Compared to pan-frying with excess oil.
✔ Iron-Rich – Helps prevent anemia and boosts energy.
✔ Air Frying is Healthier – Less oil means fewer calories.
✔ Keto & Low-Carb Friendly – Perfect for those following these diets.
Q&A Section
❓ Can I cook frozen steak in the air fryer?
Yes! Increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes. However, thawing first ensures better seasoning absorption and even cooking.
❓ Do I need to flip the steak?
Yes! Flipping halfway through allows for an evenly cooked, crispy crust.
❓ Can I use a marinade?
Absolutely! Marinate for at least 30 minutes for extra flavor, but pat dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.
❓ Why is my steak dry?
Overcooking or skipping the resting step can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to avoid this.
❓ What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to avoid drying out.
This Air Fryer Steak is quick, juicy, and packed with flavor! Try it with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal. Let me know how yours turns out! 🍽️🔥