Can You Cook Steak in an Air Fryer

It’s easy—use a meat thermometer! Every air fryer is a little different, so the best way to cook a steak to your preferred doneness is by using a meat thermometer. If you like your steak on the rarer side, begin testing the temperature after cooking it for three minutes on the second side. Find out what temperature to look for below.

Cooking a steak in an air fryer might sound unconventional, but it’s a game-changer for home cooks who want a juicy, tender steak with minimal mess and effort. After analyzing top-ranking articles on Google for “Can You Cook Steak in an Air Fryer,” it’s clear that the best content addresses practical concerns like cook times, seasoning tips, and avoiding common pitfalls, while also offering step-by-step guidance. However, many articles lack depth on troubleshooting issues like uneven cooking or specific air fryer model differences, and some fail to emphasize the importance of steak thickness or resting times. Below, I’ll dive into a detailed guide that fills these gaps, providing actionable advice for perfect air fryer steak every time.

Why Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers are essentially countertop convection ovens, using rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly with less oil than traditional methods. For steak, this means a crispy, seared exterior and a juicy interior without the splatter of pan-searing or the hassle of firing up a grill. The air fryer’s high heat mimics the intense cooking environment needed for a good steak, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe, and you won’t have grease splattered across your stovetop. However, air fryers don’t replicate the smoky flavor of a grill, so if that’s your priority, you might prefer traditional methods.

Choosing the Right Steak

Not all steaks are created equal for air frying. The best cuts are at least 1-inch thick to avoid overcooking, as thinner cuts can dry out quickly. Ribeye, New York strip, sirloin, and filet mignon are excellent choices due to their fat content and texture, which hold up well under high heat. Leaner cuts like flank or skirt steak can work but require extra care to prevent drying out. For example, The Kitchn recommends ribeye for its marbling, which keeps the steak juicy. Always let your steak come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking—cold steaks can result in a rare center with overcooked edges.

Preparation Tips for Success

Proper prep is key to a great air fryer steak. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy sear. Brush lightly with olive oil or a neutral oil to enhance browning and prevent sticking. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, or use a steak seasoning blend for extra flavor. Some recipes, like one from Well Plated, suggest adding a pinch of sugar to promote caramelization, mimicking a pan-seared crust. If you’re feeling adventurous, marinate the steak for 30 minutes in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and herbs for deeper flavor, but avoid salting too early unless you’re dry-brining for a few hours, as salt can draw out moisture and hinder browning.

Cooking Process and Timing

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5-10 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment, which is crucial for that seared exterior. Place the steaks in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for proper air circulation. For a 1-inch thick steak, cook times typically range as follows, based on desired doneness (always use a meat thermometer for accuracy):

• Rare (125°F): 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway
• Medium-rare (135°F): 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway
• Medium (145°F): 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway
• Medium-well (155°F): 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway
• Well-done (160°F): 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway

Flip the steak halfway through to ensure even cooking, though some sources note that flipping isn’t always necessary due to the air fryer’s circulating heat. If your steak is thicker than 1 inch, add 2-5 minutes; for thinner cuts, reduce by 1-2 minutes. A meat thermometer is non-negotiable—pull the steak 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue cooking while resting.

Enhancing Flavor with Compound Butter

Take your steak to the next level with a pat of compound butter. Mix softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme, and a pinch of salt. After cooking, place a slice of this butter on the hot steak while it rests for 5-10 minutes under loose foil. The butter melts into the meat, adding richness and flavor. For inspiration, Food Network’s garlic-herb butter recipe is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any cut.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One gap in many articles is addressing what can go wrong. If your steak turns out dry, you likely overcooked it or used a lean cut like sirloin without enough fat. To fix this, reduce cooking time and check the temperature early. Uneven cooking? Ensure the air fryer is fully preheated and the steaks aren’t overcrowded. If the steak lacks color, you might have skipped the oil or not dried the surface properly. Some air fryers, especially lower-wattage models (under 1800 watts), may struggle to brown effectively—consider upgrading to a model like the Cosori for better results. If smoke is an issue, add a tablespoon of water to the air fryer basket to catch drippings, as suggested by Allrecipes.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer steak pairs beautifully with classic sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For a low-carb option, try sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini. You can also slice the steak for fajitas, steak salads, or rice bowls, making it versatile for meal prep. The quick cooking time (about 25 minutes total, including prep and resting) makes this a weeknight winner.

Addressing Air Fryer Model Differences

Not all air fryers perform the same. Basket-style models like the Ninja Foodi or Cosori tend to work best for steak due to their even heat distribution. Oven-style air fryers with multiple racks may require rotating the steaks for consistent results. If your air fryer has a lower temperature range (e.g., maxing out at 380°F), increase the cooking time slightly and monitor with a thermometer. Testing with your specific model is key, as some sources note variations in browning and cook times across brands.

The garlic-cilantro butter takes it over the top!