Everything You Need To Know About Cooking The Perfect Steak In Your Air Fryer

steak air fryer recipe

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking the perfect steak can be a challenge. But fear not, with the help of your trusty air fryer, you can cook a delicious and juicy steak every time. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cooking steak in an air fryer, including the science behind it, preparation tips, recipes, and more.

The Food Science Behind Cooking Steak in an Air Fryer

The air fryer is essentially a mini-convection oven that circulates hot air around the food, cooking it quickly and evenly. This hot air is perfect for cooking steak because it sears the outside to create a crispy crust while locking in the juiciness and flavor of the meat.

Another benefit of using an air fryer is that it allows for healthier cooking. Instead of deep-frying the steak, which adds unnecessary oil and calories, the air fryer uses only a minimal amount of oil to achieve the same crispy outside and juicy interior.

Selecting the Right Steak for Your Air Fryer

When it comes to selecting the perfect steak for your air fryer, the key is to choose a cut with enough fat to keep the meat moist and tender while cooking. Some of the best cuts for air frying include ribeye, sirloin, and strip steak.

Make sure to choose steaks that are at least one inch thick to ensure even cooking. And if possible, try to select steaks that are similar in size and thickness for even cooking.

Preparing Your Steak for the Air Fryer

steak

Before cooking your steak in the air fryer, there are a few important steps you should take to ensure the best possible result.

  1. Remove your steak from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.

  2. Pat your steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture and season with your desired seasoning.

  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about three minutes.

  4. Spray a light coat of cooking spray or olive oil onto the air fryer basket or place a piece of parchment paper in the bottom to prevent sticking.

  5. Place your seasoned steak in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave plenty of space around it for air circulation.

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Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

steak

To achieve the best results when cooking steak in an air fryer, there are a few additional tips you should keep in mind.

  1. When cooking multiple steaks, try to space them out evenly in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

  2. Flip your steak halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on each side.

  3. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, while medium steaks should reach 145°F.

  4. Let your steak rest for at least five minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Air Fryer Steak Recipe

close up view of air fried steak

Now that you know all the tips and tricks for cooking the perfect steak in an air fryer, it’s time to try it out for yourself with this delicious recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 8oz ribeye steaks
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs thyme
  • 1 tbsp butter

Directions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Rub the mixture over the steaks.
  4. Place the steaks in the air fryer basket and cook for six minutes per side for medium-rare or eight minutes per side for medium.
  5. Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let rest for five minutes.
  6. Serve with a pat of butter on top.

Variations

close up view of air fried steak

There are many ways to switch up this recipe to create new and exciting dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Try using different seasonings, such as cumin or paprika, to add a new flavor profile to your steak.
  • Top your steak with a compound butter or a chimichurri sauce for added flavor.
  • Cut your steak into strips and use it to top a salad or make a steak wrap.
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Cleaning Your Air Fryer

After cooking your steak in the air fryer, it’s important to clean it properly to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips on how to clean your air fryer.

  1. Let your air fryer cool completely before cleaning it.
  2. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer.
  3. Use a non-abrasive cleaning agent to remove any stuck-on food or grease.
  4. If your air fryer has a removable tray or basket, wash it with warm, soapy water.
  5. If your air fryer comes with a cleaning brush, use it to remove any debris or grease from the heating element.

In conclusion, cooking steak in an air fryer is an easy and delicious way to achieve a perfectly cooked meal every time. By following these tips and tricks, you can create a variety of tasty steak dishes in your air fryer and keep your appliance clean and in perfect working order. So, why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your air-fried steak skills!

Sources
  • How to Check if Steak Is Done Using the Finger Test: 9 Steps
  • Test a Steak’s Doneness With the Touch Test | Art of Manliness
  • FAQS On Steak Air Fryer Recipe

    What Is An Air Fryer?

    An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food. It combines the benefits of a traditional oven and deep fryer, allowing you to fry, grill, roast, and bake with little to no oil.

    Can I Cook Steak In An Air Fryer?

    Yes, you can definitely cook steak in an air fryer. The hot air circulation in the air fryer helps to achieve a crispy and flavorful steak exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

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    How Should I Prepare The Steak Before Cooking It In An Air Fryer?

    Before cooking, make sure to allow the steak to come to room temperature and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the steak with your desired blend of spices, herbs, and salt. Preheating the air fryer is also recommended for even cooking.

    What Temperature And Cooking Time Should I Use For Steak In An Air Fryer?

    The recommended temperature for cooking steak in an air fryer is around 400°F (200°C). The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. As a rough guideline, a medium-rare steak can be cooked for about 10-12 minutes.

    Should I Flip The Steak While Cooking It In An Air Fryer?

    Yes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time is recommended for even browning and cooking. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the steak to avoid piercing it and losing juices.

    How Do I Know If The Steak Is Done Cooking In The Air Fryer?

    To determine the doneness of the steak, use an instant-read meat thermometer. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.

    Can I Cook Frozen Steak In An Air Fryer?

    It is possible to cook frozen steak in an air fryer, but it is generally recommended to thaw the steak first for more even cooking. If cooking from frozen, increase the cooking time by a few minutes and use the meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the desired internal temperature.