Air Fryer Steak
Steak lovers, rejoice! If you’ve been searching for an easy and delicious way to prepare steak, look no further than this Air Fryer Steak recipe. The air fryer locks in juices, creates a perfectly seared crust, and delivers a tender, flavorful cut of meat in a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this method will quickly become your new favorite.
Why It’s My Go-To
The air fryer has revolutionized the way I cook, and steak is no exception. Why do I love it? For starters, it’s fast and efficient. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the steak evenly, giving you that perfect medium-rare finish without the hassle of a grill or pan. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to frying, as it requires little to no oil while still achieving that coveted crispy exterior. The result is a juicy rib-eye, strip steak, or T-bone that’s packed with flavor and textures.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 steaks (rib-eye, strip steak, or T-bone, 1 inch thick)
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Essential Tools for Success
- Air Fryer – The star of the show! Make sure it’s preheated for even cooking.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection.
- Tongs – For flipping the steak without piercing it and losing juices.
- Cutting Board – For resting and slicing your steak.
- Small Bowl – For mixing the butter, rosemary, and garlic.
From Start to Finish: Air Fryer Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Start by removing your steaks from the refrigerator and allowing them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle both sides of each steak with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to a flavorful steak!
Step 3: Make the Garlic Rosemary Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined. This savory compound butter will add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is essential for a great sear.
Step 5: Cook the Steaks
Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overlapping. Cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked to your desired temperature, remove the steaks from the air fryer and spread the garlic rosemary butter on top while they rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
How to Make It Lighter
- Use Leaner Cuts: Opt for cuts like sirloin or flank steak to reduce fat content.
- Skip the Butter: Replace the compound butter with a drizzle of olive oil or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
- Add Vegetables: Serve with a side of air-fried vegetables to round out your meal without adding too many calories.
- Herbs and Spices: Use fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor without extra calories.
What I Learned Testing
- The thickness of your steak matters; 1 inch is ideal for achieving a perfect medium-rare.
- Letting the steak come to room temperature really does make a difference in cooking time and juiciness.
- Different air fryers may have varying cooking times, so always keep an eye on your steak and use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Resting the steak after cooking is non-negotiable; it’s the secret to a juicy steak!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you have leftover steak, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or placing it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked steak for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through to retain moisture.
Reader Questions
Can I cook frozen steaks in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen steaks in the air fryer! Just be aware that cooking times will be longer, typically around 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. Make sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.
What’s the best way to know when my steak is done?
The best way to know if your steak is done is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C), and for medium, 140°F (60°C).
Can I use this recipe for other cuts of meat?
Absolutely! This air fryer method works well for various cuts of beef, including sirloin, filet mignon, and even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
Do I need to marinate the steak before cooking?
While marinating can add flavor, it’s not necessary for this air fryer steak recipe. The seasoning and garlic rosemary butter provide plenty of taste. However, if you prefer a marinade, feel free to do so!
Hungry for More?
If you love this Air Fryer Steak recipe, you’ll want to explore more delicious air fryer meals. From sizzling shrimp to crispy vegetables, the possibilities are endless. The air fryer is a versatile kitchen gadget that can elevate any dish, making it a staple in my cooking routine.
Whether it’s a hearty steak dinner or a light veggie side, the air fryer is sure to impress. Try this recipe out and let me know how your steaks turn out. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious experience with Air Fryer Steak!
Air Fryer Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by removing your steaks from the refrigerator and allowing them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Sprinkle both sides of each steak with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overlapping. Cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through.
- Once cooked to your desired temperature, remove the steaks and spread the garlic rosemary butter on top while they rest for about 5 minutes.
Notes
- For best results, let the steak come to room temperature before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked perfectly.
- Rest the steak after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
