Quick Answer
The best temperature to cook steak in an air fryer is between 380-400°F. This high heat helps create a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired doneness. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness, but a 1-inch steak will generally take 10-15 minutes at 380°F in an air fryer. Using a meat thermometer is recommended to check for your preferred internal temperature.
Detailed Answer
Cooking steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy cooking method that can rival grilling or pan searing. The high heat circulated air crisps up the outside while cooking the inside. Follow these tips for perfect air fryer steak:
1. Choose the Right Cut of Steak
The best steaks to cook in an air fryer are:
– Ribeye
– Strip steak
– Filet mignon
– Tenderloin
– Sirloin
– Flank steak
These cuts are tender enough to cook fast while still getting a nice sear. Steaks should be 1-2 inches thick. Extremely thick steaks may not cook through properly.
2. Pat Steak Dry and Season Generously
– Pat steaks dry before seasoning. Any moisture on the exterior can prevent browning.
– Generously coat both sides with seasoning. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, steak seasoning blends all work well.
– Let the seasoned steaks sit at room temperature while the air fryer preheats. This helps them cook more evenly.
3. Preheat Air Fryer to 380-400°F
– Preheating is a must for steak. This gets the air fryer nice and hot to sear the exterior.
– Set the temperature between 380-400°F. Any hotter may burn the outside before the inside cooks.
– Give it 5-10 minutes to fully preheat. The exact time depends on your model.
4. Cook Steak for 10-15 Minutes
Cooking times will vary based on steak thickness and doneness preference, but a general guide is:
– 1-inch thick steaks: 10-12 minutes
– 1 1/2-inch steaks: 12-15 minutes
– Check steak early and often until you get the timing right for your preferred doneness.
– Flip steak halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and cooking.
5. Let Steak Rest 5 Minutes
– Once steak is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest 5 minutes.
– This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat for tender, juicy results.
– Lightly tent it with foil to keep warm.
6. Check for Doneness
Using an instant read thermometer, check steak internal temperature:
– Rare: 120-125°F
– Medium rare: 130-135°F
– Medium: 140-145°F
– Medium well: 150-155°F
– Well done: 160°F+
If you don’t have a thermometer, use the finger test. Gently press the steak:
– Rare: Very soft and spongy
– Medium rare: Springy, slightly firm
– Medium: Firm with minimal give
– Well done: Very firm
7. Optional Searing Step
For enhanced browning, you can add an optional searing step:
– After air frying, sear steak 1 minute per side in a hot cast iron skillet with butter or oil.
8. Slice and Serve!
– Slice steak against the grain for tenderest bites.
– Serve immediately while hot.
– Steak pairs well with garlic butter, chimichurri sauce, peppercorn sauce, béarnaise sauce, etc.
Tips for the Best Results
– Trim excess fat from steaks to prevent smoking. Leave about 1/4 inch of fat.
– Pat away any moisture for optimal searing.
– Flip steak only once during cooking for the best crust.
– Resist the urge to continually open the air fryer. This drops the temperature.
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time.
– Check steak early to prevent overcooking. You can always cook it a bit longer if needed.
– Let meat rest before slicing for juicier bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of steak works best in an air fryer?
The best steaks for air frying are tender, juicy cuts like ribeye, strip, filet mignon, tenderloin, sirloin, and flank steak. Go for steaks 1-2 inches thick.
How long does it take to cook steak in an air fryer?
Cooking time depends on thickness and doneness, but estimate 10-15 minutes for a 1-inch steak at 380°F. Use a meat thermometer and check often for your preferred doneness.
Do you need oil to cook steak in an air fryer?
You don’t need oil, but brushing a thin layer can help promote browning. Use refined avocado, grapeseed, or light olive oil.
Should you flip steak when cooking in an air fryer?
Yes, flipping halfway through is important to cook both sides evenly. Only flip once for the best crust though.
How do you know when steak is done in an air fryer?
Use an instant read thermometer for precise doneness. Or use the finger test, pressing gently. Rare steak will be very soft and firm as it cooks more.
Conclusion
Air frying is a quick and easy way to enjoy juicy, flavorful steak at home. For best results, pat steaks dry, generously season, preheat air fryer to 380-400°F, and cook a 1-inch steak around 10-15 minutes flipping once. Check temperature for your preferred doneness. Let steak rest before slicing and serve immediately. With the right time and temperature, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak from your air fryer any night of the week.
| Thickness | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 10-12 minutes |
| 1 1/2 inches | 12-15 minutes |
| Doneness | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 120-125°F |
| Medium rare | 130-135°F |
| Medium | 140-145°F |
| Medium well | 150-155°F |
| Well done | 160°F+ |