How To Cook Round Steak In Air Fryer [FULL GUIDE]

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Round steak is a cut from the rear leg of the cow, known for being lean yet naturally tough due to the presence of muscle fibers. It’s often overlooked for high-end cooking because it can be chewy if not handled properly. However, with modern kitchen appliances like the air fryer, round steak can be transformed into a tender, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Air fryers cook by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the interior juicy. This method allows round steak to cook quickly and evenly, preserving its flavor without the need for excessive oil or complex preparation. Understanding the ideal temperature, timing, and cooking techniques is key to unlocking the full potential of this lean cut.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature To Cook Round Steak In Air Fryer

The optimal temperature for cooking round steak in an air fryer is typically 400°F (204°C). This high heat ensures the steak develops a nicely seared exterior while cooking the inside quickly. Because round steak is lean, cooking it at too low a temperature can result in a tough, rubbery texture, whereas too high a temperature can dry it out. Maintaining a consistent temperature is essential; most modern air fryers have precise digital controls that help achieve this, but for older models, preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures a stable cooking environment.

How Long To Cook Round Steak In Air Fryer

Cooking time depends on the steak’s thickness and your desired level of doneness. For a standard 1-inch thick round steak, the following guidelines apply:

• Medium-rare: 10-12 minutes (flip halfway)
• Medium: 12-14 minutes (flip halfway)
• Well-done: 15-17 minutes (flip halfway)

Thinner steaks (¾ inch or less) will require less time, often 6-8 minutes for medium-rare. It’s important to note that air fryers cook faster than conventional ovens, so keeping a close eye on the steak is crucial to avoid overcooking.

How To Tell If It Is Done

The most reliable method to determine doneness is using a meat thermometer:

• Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
• Well-done: 160°F+ (71°C+)

For those without a thermometer, you can use the touch test: press the steak with your fingertip-medium-rare will feel soft and yield slightly, medium will be firmer, and well-done will feel very firm. Always let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after air frying; this allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.

Ingredients Needed

To cook round steak in an air fryer, you will need:

• 1-2 round steaks (approximately 1-inch thick)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
• Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)
• Black pepper, freshly ground
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary, or steak seasoning
• Optional marinade: soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, and herbs

How To Cook Round Steak In Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (204°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs. If marinating, allow at least 30 minutes.
3. Place in Basket: Lay the steak flat in the air fryer basket, ensuring it isn’t overcrowded. Overlapping pieces can prevent even cooking.
4. Cook: Air fry at 400°F (204°C), flipping halfway through the recommended cooking time for your preferred doneness.
5. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer or touch test to verify the internal temperature.
6. Rest: Remove steak and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing across the grain.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Temperature?

• Lower Temperature (350-375°F): Cooking at a lower temperature will take longer and may yield a more evenly cooked interior but may lack a seared crust. For medium doneness, this could increase cooking time by 20-30%.
• Higher Temperature (425-450°F): Cooking at a higher temperature can create a deep crust quickly but risks overcooking the inside. It’s suitable for thin steaks or if you want a very pronounced sear but requires careful monitoring.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Cooking Time?

Cooking time adjustments can significantly affect texture:

• Shorter Time: The steak may be undercooked and chewy; always check the internal temperature before serving.
• Longer Time: Round steak can quickly dry out due to its lean nature. If you need more time, consider wrapping it in foil to retain moisture or adding a small amount of beef broth or marinade.

When Things Go Wrong

Common issues when air frying round steak include:

• Dry, tough steak: Often caused by overcooking or using too high heat. Solution: reduce temperature or cook in slightly smaller increments.
• Uneven cooking: May occur if steaks are overlapping or the air fryer basket is too crowded. Cook in batches if needed.
• Burnt exterior, raw interior: This usually happens with very thick cuts. Use a lower temperature and longer cooking time or pre-sear the steak separately before air frying.

Expert Tips

• Marinate for Tenderness: Even a short 30-minute marinade can break down fibers and add flavor.
• Flip Halfway: Ensures even cooking and prevents one side from drying out.
• Use a Thermometer: Especially for lean cuts like round steak, to avoid overcooking.
• Rest Before Slicing: Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
• Thin Cuts Cook Faster: Adjust temperature and timing if using thinner steaks; even a ¼-inch difference can change cooking time significantly.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Prepare Round Steak Before Air Frying?

Before air frying, trim any excess fat from the round steak and pat it dry with paper towels. Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes can help tenderize the meat and enhance flavor. Simple marinades with olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices work well. You can also season with salt, pepper, and other preferred spices if you prefer not to marinate.

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Fryer For Round Steak?

For air frying round steak, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Depending on thickness and desired doneness, the cooking time may vary.

How Long Should I Cook Round Steak In An Air Fryer?

Cooking time depends on steak thickness and preferred doneness. For a 1-inch thick round steak, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. For medium, cook 12-14 minutes, and for well-done, 15-18 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.

Should I Flip The Steak During Air Frying?

Yes, flipping the steak halfway through cooking ensures even browning and prevents one side from becoming overcooked. Use tongs to flip the steak carefully to avoid piercing the meat and losing juices.

How Can I Make Air-fried Round Steak More Tender?

Round steak is naturally lean and can be tough if overcooked. To improve tenderness, consider marinating with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt, which help break down muscle fibers. Additionally, avoid overcooking and allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute.

Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer For Round Steak?

Preheating the air fryer is recommended. Preheating to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes ensures the steak starts cooking immediately upon contact, which helps develop a seared exterior and reduces overall cooking time.

Can I Cook Frozen Round Steak In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen round steak in an air fryer, but it will require a longer cooking time. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the steak for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s best to season the steak after partially thawing for more even flavor absorption.