How to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a game-changer—quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With minimal effort, you can get a perfectly seared crust on the outside and a juicy, tender inside. Whether you’re a steak enthusiast or just looking for a fuss-free way to make a delicious meal, the air fryer delivers amazing results. Let’s go step by step to make the perfect air-fried steak.

Why Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy and caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy. Unlike pan-searing, this method requires little oil, cooks evenly, and is practically mess-free. Plus, it’s fast—perfect for busy nights!

What You’ll Need:

• 2 ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it heat for about 3 minutes. This helps create that delicious sear.
2. Prepare the Steak – Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, then coat both sides with olive oil or melted butter. Generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook the Steak – Place the steaks in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for:
   • Rare: 6 minutes (flip at 3 minutes)
   • Medium-Rare: 8 minutes (flip at 4 minutes)
   • Medium: 10 minutes (flip at 5 minutes)
   • Well-Done: 12-14 minutes (flip at 6-7 minutes)
4. Let it Rest – Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step keeps the juices locked in.
5. Slice and Serve – Cut against the grain and serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Steak:

• Let the steak sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking for even results.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
• Add a small pat of butter on top while the steak rests for extra richness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer steak is a hassle-free way to make a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s quick, delicious, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this method guarantees a juicy, flavorful steak every time. Try it out and enjoy a perfectly cooked steak with less effort!