How Long to Cook Steak in Air Fryer: Perfect Times for Every Doneness

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone craving a perfectly juicy cut without the hassle of grilling or pan-searing. This modern kitchen gadget delivers consistent results while cutting down on cooking time and cleanup. Whether you’re aiming for a tender medium-rare or a well-done finish, the air fryer makes it easy to achieve your desired doneness.

Tools And Equipment

To cook a steak to perfection in your air fryer, you’ll need specific tools and equipment to ensure success and streamline the process. These items are essential for achieving consistent results and making the experience effortless.

Required Tools:

Air Fryer: Opt for a model with adjustable temperature controls and a spacious basket to fit your steak without overcrowding.
Meat Thermometer: Use this to check the internal temperature of your steak for precise doneness.
Tongs: For flipping the steak while cooking without piercing it, which helps retain juices.
Aluminum Foil (Optional): To rest the steak after frying, ensuring it stays warm and juicy.
Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for resting and slicing your steak.
Sharp Knife: Ideal for slicing the steak evenly after it has rested.

Cooking Spray or Brush: Lightly greasing the air fryer basket prevents sticking.
Small Bowls or Containers: For pre-mixing spices, seasoning blends, or marinades.
Paper Towels: To pat the steak dry before seasoning, ensuring a better crust.

Having these tools ready before you start makes the entire cooking process smoother and enhances the quality of your air-fried steak.

Ingredients

To cook a perfectly flavorful steak in your air fryer, you will need the following ingredients. Ensure all ingredients are measured and prepared beforehand for a smooth cooking process:

1 steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon) – about 1-inch thick, pat dry with paper towels.
1 tablespoon olive oil – or any neutral oil, for coating the steak.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground for maximum flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – optional, for added seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – enhances the smoky flavor, optional.
Cooking spray – to lightly grease the air fryer basket.

These key ingredients create a tender and juicy steak with a perfectly seasoned crust when cooked in your air fryer. Adjust seasoning quantities based on your preferences.

Directions

Follow these simple and precise steps to cook the perfect steak in your air fryer. Pay close attention to each part of the process to achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

Prepping The Steak

Remove your steak from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly.
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drying the surface ensures a better sear and enhances crispiness.

Seasoning The Steak

Lightly coat the steak with olive oil on all sides to help the seasoning adhere.
Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika generously on both sides. For even coverage, press the seasoning gently into the steak.
Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes after seasoning to let the flavors penetrate the meat.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak cooks evenly and starts to sear immediately.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with aluminum foil (optional) to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
Place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between pieces for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.

How Long To Cook Steak In Air Fryer

Cooking steak in an air fryer is quick and efficient, but timing is crucial to achieving your desired level of doneness. Use the following guide to perfect your steak.

Cooking Times For Different Levels Of Doneness

The cooking time for steak in an air fryer varies depending on thickness and personal preference. Here’s a chart to help you determine the ideal time:

Doneness	Temperature (°F)	Cook Time (Per Side)	Total Cook Time
Rare	125°F	4 minutes	8 minutes
Medium-Rare	135°F	5 minutes	10 minutes
Medium	145°F	6 minutes	12 minutes
Medium-Well	150°F	7 minutes	14 minutes
Well-Done	160°F	8 minutes	16 minutes

These times are based on a steak approximately 1 inch thick at 400°F (200°C). Adjust timing slightly for thinner or thicker cuts.

Use A Meat Thermometer: Always rely on a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This ensures accuracy and prevents overcooking or undercooking.
Flip The Steak: Flip the steak halfway through cooking to promote even browning on both sides.
Check Early: Depending on steak thickness, start checking for doneness 1-2 minutes before the suggested time to avoid overcooking.
Rest After Cooking: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the air fryer to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Once your air-fried steak has rested and is ready to serve, you can elevate your meal with a variety of complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

Classic Pairings: Serve your steak with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad for a traditional meal. Add a warm dinner roll or French baguette on the side to soak up the juices for an extra indulgence.
Lighter Options: Pair your steak with a fresh arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Side dishes like steamed asparagus, grilled zucchini, or a cucumber and tomato salad offer a balanced and refreshing accompaniment.
Sauces and Toppings: Enhance the flavor of your steak by adding a dollop of garlic herb butter, a drizzle of chimichurri, or a spoonful of creamy peppercorn sauce. If you enjoy spice, add a sprinkle of red chili flakes or a side of horseradish cream sauce for a kick.
Comfort Pairings: For a hearty and comforting approach, serve your steak with mac and cheese, loaded baked potatoes, or a sweet potato casserole. These rich sides balance out the savory flavor of the steak.
Wine and Beverage Pairings: Complement your air-fried steak with a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, iced tea, or sparkling water with a twist of lime provides a refreshing contrast.

Personalize your serving suggestions based on your preferences, the occasion, and the doneness of your steak to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions

To ensure your air-fried steak remains flavorful and juicy, there are several ways to prepare it in advance and store leftovers properly.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Season and Refrigerate: You can season your steak up to 24 hours in advance. After seasoning with olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the steak from staying cold in the center.
Pre-Mix Seasonings: To save time, mix your seasonings ahead of time in a small bowl. This makes the seasoning process quicker when you’re ready to cook.

Storage Instructions

Cooling: Allow any leftover steak to cool to room temperature before storing. Avoid letting it sit out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth.
Refrigeration: Wrap the leftover steak tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to retain its moisture. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep the steak longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label it with the date for reference. Properly frozen steak can last up to 3 months.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, use low heat to maintain the steak’s tenderness. Place it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
Add Moisture: Add a splash of broth or melted butter while reheating to keep the steak from drying out.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your leftover steak reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or your preferred doneness level.

By following these make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor and tenderness whether eating freshly cooked or enjoying leftovers.

Conclusion

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a game-changer, offering convenience, speed, and delicious results. With the right preparation, tools, and attention to detail, you can effortlessly achieve a perfectly cooked steak tailored to your preferred doneness.

Whether you’re making it fresh or reheating leftovers, the air fryer ensures your steak remains juicy and flavorful. Pair it with your favorite sides and sauces to create a memorable meal that’s both satisfying and customizable.

Embrace the simplicity of air frying and enjoy restaurant-quality steak right in your own kitchen.