Delicious beef steaks in the air fryer

Cooking beef steaks in an air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve a delicious, juicy steak with a beautiful crust, similar to what you’d get from grilling or pan-searing, but with less mess and hassle. Here’s a simple yet effective recipe for making delicious beef steaks in your air fryer.

Ingredients:

Table of Contents

  • 2 beef steaks (ribeye, sirloin, or your choice), about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme for additional flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steaks:

  • Let the steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
  • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Moisture on the surface can prevent them from searing properly.

2. Season the Steaks:

  • Rub each steak with olive oil, ensuring all sides are coated. The oil helps the seasoning stick to the steaks and promotes a good sear.
  • Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle with garlic powder and add rosemary or thyme to taste.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures a good sear and helps cook the steak evenly.

4. Cook the Steaks:

  • Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
  • For medium-rare, cook for about 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your steaks and your preferred level of doneness. Here’s a rough guide:
    • Rare: 5-6 minutes
    • Medium-Rare: 7-9 minutes
    • Medium: 10-12 minutes
    • Well-Done: 13-15 minutes
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
See also  Air Fryer Cranberry Scones

5. Rest the Steaks:

  • Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your steak is juicy and flavorful.

6. Serve:

  • Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or baked potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steaks:

  • Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking the steaks without overcrowding the air fryer basket allows for better air circulation and more even cooking.
  • Thickness Matters: The cooking times mentioned are for 1-inch thick steaks. Adjust cooking times if your steaks are thicker or thinner.
  • Checking Doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for your preferred level of doneness without overcooking the steaks.

Enjoy your delicious, air-fried steaks with the satisfaction of having prepared a restaurant-quality meal right at home!