Air fryers have become a kitchen staple, offering a quick and easy way to achieve crispy, delicious results. But how long do you cook a steak in an air fryer to get that perfect level of doneness? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the right cut to achieving your desired level of doneness.
Choosing Your Steak & Prep
The first step to a perfect air fryer steak is selecting the right cut. Thinner cuts, like steak tips or sirloin steaks, cook faster than thicker cuts like ribeye or New York strip. Keep this in mind when determining cooking time.
Preparing Your Steak for Air Fryer Perfection:
- Pat it dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry your steak. This helps achieve a beautiful sear and crispy exterior.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning blend. Season both sides generously.
- Let it rest (at room temperature): Allowing your steak to come to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking. This typically takes about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for thicker cuts.
Air Fryer Steak Cooking Times: A Comprehensive Guide
The cooking time for your steak will depend on its thickness and desired doneness. Use this chart as a guideline, adjusting the time as needed based on your air fryer's power and your steak's thickness:
| Steak Thickness (inches) | Rare | Medium-Rare | Medium | Medium-Well | Well-Done |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 - 0.75 | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 7-8 minutes |
| 0.75 - 1.0 | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 7-8 minutes | 8-9 minutes | 9-10 minutes |
| 1.0 - 1.5 | 7-9 minutes | 9-11 minutes | 11-13 minutes | 13-15 minutes | 15-17 minutes |
Important Note: These are estimates. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
Internal Temperatures for Steak Doneness:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-Done: 145°F+ (63°C+)
Tips for Air Fryer Steak Success:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking. Cook steaks in batches if necessary.
- Flip halfway through: Flip your steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking.
- Rest your steak: After cooking, let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Troubleshooting:
- Steak is too dry: You may have overcooked it. Try reducing the cooking time next time and use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
- Steak is not crispy: Ensure your steak is completely dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
By following these tips and using the cooking time chart as a guide, you'll be well on your way to achieving perfectly cooked air fryer steaks every time! Enjoy!
