Air Fryer Recipe for Steak: Perfectly Juicy and Flavorful Steak
Cooking steak to perfection is often seen as an intimidating task, but with an air fryer, it’s easier than ever to achieve a delicious, restaurant-quality steak right in your own kitchen. Air fryers are versatile appliances that use rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This “Air Fryer Recipe for Steak” ensures you get a tender and juicy steak with a perfectly seared crust every time—all without using a grill or stovetop.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about preparing the perfect air-fried steak, including nutritional details, step-by-step instructions, and tips to customize your steak according to your preferences.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250-400 (depends on steak cut and portion size)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80-100mg
- Sodium: 350-500mg (depending on seasoning)
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main Course
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Active Time (Cook Time): 10-15 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment
- Air fryer (with a basket or rack)
- Meat thermometer (optional but highly recommended)
- Tongs
- Small bowl for seasoning
Ingredients
- Steak: 2 cuts of steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, about 1-1.5 inches thick)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Optional toppings: Garlic butter, chopped parsley, or a squeeze of lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Remove your steaks from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the meat cook evenly.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Season the Steak
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks. The olive oil will help the seasoning stick and create a nice crust during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps to achieve a great sear.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
- Place the steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket or rack. Ensure they are not overlapping to allow proper airflow.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cook time depends on your preferred doneness:
- Rare: 6-7 minutes (internal temp: 120-125°F)
- Medium Rare: 8-9 minutes (internal temp: 130-135°F)
- Medium: 10-12 minutes (internal temp: 140-145°F)
- Well Done: 14-15 minutes (internal temp: 160°F and above)
Step 5: Rest the Steak
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy bites.
- Optional: Add a dollop of garlic butter or sprinkle fresh parsley on top for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right cut: Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are excellent choices for this recipe. Avoid thin cuts as they may overcook quickly in an air fryer.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, like rosemary, thyme, or cayenne pepper.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Steak?
The air fryer cooks steak evenly and quickly while achieving a crispy crust similar to grilling or searing. It’s a great alternative if you don’t have access to a grill or prefer a hassle-free cooking method. Plus, the air fryer minimizes the need for extra oil, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Recipe for Steak is a game-changer for steak lovers. It delivers a perfectly cooked steak with minimal effort and cleanup, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, the air fryer makes it easy to achieve your ideal doneness with consistent results.
Try this recipe today and elevate your steak-cooking game with the power of your air fryer!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.