How Long to Cook Sirloin Steak in Air Fryer

How Long to Cook Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a sirloin steak in an air fryer is a game-changer for steak lovers who want a juicy, tender result without the hassle of a grill or stovetop. The air fryer’s high-heat circulation creates a beautifully seared crust while keeping the inside perfectly cooked to your liking. But the key question remains: how long does it take to cook a sirloin steak in an air fryer? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process, including exact cooking times based on thickness and doneness, tips for the best results, and a few seasoning ideas to elevate your steak game.

Why Choose an Air Fryer for Sirloin Steak?

I was skeptical the first time I tried cooking a steak in an air fryer. Like many, I thought nothing could beat the sizzle of a cast-iron skillet or the smoky char of a grill. But after experimenting, I was blown away by how effortless it is to get a restaurant-quality sirloin steak with minimal cleanup. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation mimics the intense heat of searing, locking in juices and creating a flavorful crust. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when the weather isn’t grill-friendly.

Factors That Affect Cooking Time

The time it takes to cook a sirloin steak in an air fryer depends on a few key factors:

• Steak Thickness: A 1-inch thick sirloin cooks differently than a cut. Thicker steaks need more time to reach the desired internal temperature.
• Desired Doneness: Whether you prefer rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done will determine the cooking time.
• Air Fryer Model: Different air fryers vary in wattage and basket size, which can slightly affect cooking times. Higher-wattage models (1800 watts or more) tend to brown better.
• Starting Temperature: A steak at room temperature cooks more evenly than one straight from the fridge.

Cooking Times for Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer

Here’s a detailed guide for cooking a sirloin steak at 400°F (200°C), the standard temperature for most air fryer steak recipes. These times are based on a preheated air fryer and assume you’re flipping the steak halfway through for even cooking. Always use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy, as it’s the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preference.

For a 1-inch thick sirloin steak:

• Rare (125°F / 52°C): 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium-Rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C): 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium (140-145°F / 60-63°C): 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium-Well (150-160°F / 66-71°C): 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Well-Done (160°F+ / 71°C+): 16-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

For a thick sirloin steak:

• Rare (125°F / 52°C): 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium-Rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C): 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium (140-145°F / 60-63°C): 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Medium-Well (150-160°F / 66-71°C): 16-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Well-Done (160°F+ / 71°C+): 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Pro Tip: Remove the steak from the air fryer when it’s about 5°F below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting. Tent it loosely with foil and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to redistribute the juices for maximum tenderness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer

Here’s how to get that perfect sirloin steak every time, based on my own trial-and-error and tips from trusted sources like Skinnytaste.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Take your sirloin steak out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking, so the edges don’t overcook while the center stays raw. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve a nice crust. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or avocado oil to enhance browning and help seasonings stick.

Step 2: Season Generously

Keep it simple or get creative with your seasonings. A basic mix of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika works wonders for a lean cut like sirloin. For extra flavor, try a store-bought Montreal steak seasoning or make your own blend with dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Press the seasonings into the steak to ensure they adhere during cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-5 minutes. Preheating is crucial for that seared exterior, as it mimics the high heat of a skillet or grill. If your air fryer has a smaller basket, cook one steak at a time to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper browning.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring it doesn’t overlap with other steaks or touch the sides. Cook according to the times listed above, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Use tongs to flip carefully, and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer toward the end of cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, transfer it to a plate and top with a pat of butter (garlic herb butter is my favorite for an extra flavor boost). Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Sirloin Steak

After cooking dozens of steaks in my air fryer, here are the tricks that consistently deliver stellar results:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Guessing doneness by time alone can be risky, especially with varying air fryer models. An instant-read thermometer, like the one recommended by The Kitchn, ensures precision.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Cutting into a steak right out of the air fryer releases all those precious juices. Resting keeps it juicy and tender.
• Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin is leaner than ribeye or New York strip, so it benefits from a light oil coating and a flavorful rub to enhance its natural flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to ensure proper air circulation and browning.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try a chimichurri sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes in your compound butter for a spicy kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made my share of mistakes when air frying steaks, so here’s what to watch out for:

• Cooking Straight from the Fridge: Cold steaks cook unevenly, with overdone edges and an undercooked center.
• Overcrowding the Basket: This leads to steaming instead of searing, resulting in a gray, lackluster crust.
• Using Too Much Oil: A light brush is enough—too much oil can cause smoking in the air fryer.
• Skipping the Thermometer: Eyeballing doneness is a gamble. Invest in a good thermometer for consistent results.

Serving Suggestions

A perfectly cooked sirloin steak deserves equally delicious sides. I love pairing mine with air fryer roasted potatoes or a fresh Caesar salad for a classic steakhouse vibe. For a low-carb option, try air fryer asparagus or sautéed mushrooms. If you’re feeling fancy, top your steak with a homemade garlic herb butter, as suggested by Food Network, for a rich, decadent finish.

FAQs About Cooking Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer

Can I cook a frozen sirloin steak in an air fryer?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. Thaw the steak in the fridge overnight for best results. If you must cook from frozen, add 8-10 minutes to the cooking time, flipping halfway, and check the internal temperature.

Do I need to flip the steak?

Flipping halfway through ensures even browning and cooking, though some air fryer models with strong circulation may not require it. I always flip mine for the best crust.

Can I use other cuts of steak?

Absolutely! Ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon work well in the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness and desired doneness.

Final Thoughts

Cooking sirloin steak in an air fryer is a quick, foolproof way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak without the mess of traditional methods. By following the cooking times above—10-12 minutes for medium-rare on a 1-inch steak at 400°F—and using a meat thermometer, you’ll get consistent, steakhouse-quality results every time. Whether you’re a busy parent or just craving a steak dinner without firing up the grill, this method will become your new go-to. So, grab a sirloin, preheat that air fryer, and enjoy a delicious meal in under 20 minutes!