How to Cook Steak Using an Air Fryer

Air fryers are no longer just for frying. This convenient kitchen appliance has taken kitchens by storm, and for good reason! Part countertop oven, part fryer, it’s perfect for roasting veggies, baking cookies, making pizza, and even effortlessly searing a tender, juicy steak. Read on to learn tips and tricks for cooking the perfect steak in your air fryer, saving you time and keeping your kitchen smoke-free. We’ll also share our favorite air-fried steak recipes, including pasta, salads, and more.

How to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer

High heat is ideal for cooking steak because the shorter the cooking time, the more tender the inside will be. This makes the air fryer a perfect choice for steak, as it cooks quickly and evenly by surrounding the steak with intensely hot air. Air fryer steak turns out with a delicious crust and a tender interior, but the key is proper preparation and cooking time.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C). Coat your steak with extra virgin olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Before cooking, let the steak rest at room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly, and the salt enhances the flavor and helps dry the surface for a crispier sear.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?

High heat and a hot air fryer are crucial for achieving a crispy crust and a tender, juicy steak. One of the best things about cooking steak in an air fryer is how easy it makes predicting how long it will take to cook. The cooking time will vary depending on your preferred steak doneness. Here’s a simple breakdown for a 1-inch thick steak, using an air fryer preheated to 400°F (204°C):

• Rare: 4-6 minutes, internal temperature 125°F
• Medium-Rare: 6-8 minutes, internal temperature 135°F
• Medium: 8-10 minutes, internal temperature 145°F
• Medium-Well: 10-12 minutes, internal temperature 155°F
• Well-Done: 12-14 minutes, internal temperature 160°F

Do You Need to Flip Steak in an Air Fryer?

Thanks to the air fryer’s signature heating function, which circulates hot air evenly during cooking, you don’t need to flip your steak during the cooking process. If you prefer to, you certainly can! Just flip it halfway through the cooking time.

Whichever method you choose, always rest your steak for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy bite every time instead of a dry one. While resting the steak, drizzle it with a teaspoon of garlic butter to enhance the flavor as the juices redistribute.

Do You Need to Add Oil to the Air Fryer?

You do not need to add oil to the air fryer itself before cooking your steak. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick. However, don’t put away that olive oil just yet! When preparing your steak for the air fryer, you’ll need to generously coat the meat with olive oil and season it with salt. In the air fryer, this creates a perfectly crispy, caramelized crust.

Do you have a specific type of steak you’d like to try air frying, or are you looking for some recipe ideas?