Best Steak Cuts for Air Fryer
- Ribeye
- Sirloin
- Strip steak
- Rump steak
- Fillet (tenderloin)
Recommended thickness: 2.5 to 4 cm
Ingredients
- 1 or 2 steaks
- 1 tablespoon oil
(olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil) - Salt
- Black pepper
Optional Seasonings
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Steak seasoning blend
- Fresh herbs for finishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bring Steak to Room Temperature
- Remove steaks from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Dry steak browns better and develops a stronger crust.
Step 2: Season the Steak
- Rub steaks lightly with oil.
- Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Add any optional dry seasonings.
Avoid marinades with sugar, which can burn in the air fryer.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for 3 to 5 minutes.
High heat is essential for searing.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
- Place steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook at 200°C, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Times (Approximate)
For a 2.5 cm thick steak:
- Rare: 6 to 7 minutes total
- Medium-rare: 8 to 9 minutes total
- Medium: 10 to 11 minutes total
- Medium-well: 12 to 13 minutes total
- Well done: 14 to 15 minutes total
Flip the steak halfway through cooking for even browning.
Step 5: Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rare: 49–52°C
- Medium-rare: 54–57°C
- Medium: 60–63°C
- Medium-well: 65–68°C
- Well done: 71°C and above
Remove the steak when it is 2 to 3 degrees below your target, as it will continue cooking while resting.
Step 6: Rest the Steak
- Transfer steak to a cutting board.
- Rest uncovered for 5 minutes.
Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy.
Optional Finishing Touches
- Add a knob of butter on top while resting
- Finish with fresh herbs
- Light sprinkle of flaky salt
- Drizzle with garlic butter
Common Problems and Solutions
Steak Too Dry
- Overcooked
- Steak too thin
- No resting period
Poor Browning
- Steak too wet
- Air fryer not preheated
- Temperature too low
Uneven Cooking
- Steak too thick
- Not flipped during cooking
