How Long To Cook Steak In Air Fryer – Everything You Need To Know
Introduction: From Kitchen Experiments to Perfect Air Fryer Steaks
I still remember the first time I tried cooking steak in my brand-new air fryer. It was a Friday night, and I was tired of the smoky mess my cast iron pan always left behind. I wanted something quick, easy, and flavorful. The challenge? I had no idea How Long to Cook Steak in Air Fryer to get that perfect medium-rare I love. My first attempt was slightly overcooked, but that started my journey into experimenting with times, temperatures, and cuts. Today, I’ve mastered the timing down to the minute, and I’m sharing my proven guide complete with a doneness chart so you can nail your steak every single time.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Best Cuts of Steak for Air Fryer Cooking for even better results.
Table of Contents
Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Cooking Steak
Cooking steak in an air fryer might sound unconventional, but it delivers juicy, evenly cooked meat in record time. The circulating hot air ensures a consistent sear without the need for flipping the steak multiple times. Plus, cleanup is minimal compared to traditional grilling or pan-searing.
Key Benefits:
- Faster cook times than an oven or grill
- Consistent doneness across the steak
- Less oil required for cooking
- No lingering smoke smell in your kitchen
When learning How Long to Cook Steak in Air Fryer, these benefits make the method worth trying especially if you value speed and convenience.
Choosing the Right Steak Cut for Air Frying
The cut you choose will directly affect How Long to Cook Steak in Air Fryer. Thicker cuts like ribeye or New York strip require slightly more time than thinner sirloin or flank steaks.
Best Cuts for Air Fryer Cooking:
- Ribeye (juicy and marbled)
- New York Strip (balanced fat and tenderness)
- Sirloin (leaner but flavorful)
- Filet Mignon (tender and quick-cooking)
Don’t miss our Beef Chuck Roll Steak Air Fryer Recipe if you want a budget-friendly cut that still delivers amazing flavor.
Prepping Your Steak for the Air Fryer
Before timing your steak, proper preparation is crucial.
- Pat Dry: Remove moisture so the steak sears better.
- Season Generously: Use salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Bring to Room Temp: Prevents uneven cooking.
- Light Oil Coating: Helps with browning without making it greasy.
This prep ensures your cooking time is accurate and that your steak develops a perfect crust.
The Doneness Chart for Air Fryer Steaks
This chart is your quick reference for how long to cook steak in air fryer based on thickness and desired doneness.
| Doneness | Internal Temp | 1-Inch Thick | 1.5-Inch Thick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F (52°C) | 6-7 min | 8-9 min |
| Medium-Rare | 135°F (57°C) | 8-9 min | 10-11 min |
| Medium | 145°F (63°C) | 10-11 min | 12-13 min |
| Medium-Well | 150°F (66°C) | 12-13 min | 14-15 min |
| Well-Done | 160°F (71°C) | 14-15 min | 16-17 min |
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure precision.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steak in Air Fryer
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 400°F (204°C) for best sear.
- Prepare Steak: Season and oil lightly.
- Place in Basket: Leave space for airflow.
- Cook According to Chart: Flip halfway through for even doneness.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let steak sit for 5 minutes to retain juices.
Learn more about searing tips in our Air Fryer Steak Recipe for a restaurant-quality crust.
Adjusting Time for Frozen Steak in the Air Fryer
If your steak is frozen, add 5–7 minutes to the total cooking time. While you can cook from frozen, thawing first results in better texture and more even cooking.
Flavor Boosters for Air Fryer Steaks
Enhancing your steak is easy with marinades, rubs, or finishing touches.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Adds richness
- Soy-Ginger Marinade: Brings umami depth
- Smoked Paprika Rub: Creates a bold flavor profile
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When figuring out how long to cook steak in air fryer, avoid:
- Skipping the Preheat: Leads to under-seared steak
- Overcrowding the Basket: Causes uneven cooking
- Guessing Doneness: Always use a thermometer
Discover great ideas like our Beef Chuck Roast Steak in Air Fryer to practice your timing.
Other Delicious Steak Variations in the Air Fryer
The air fryer isn’t just for standard cuts. Try:
- Steak Bites: Perfect for quick dinners (Try our Air Fryer Steak Bites Recipe)
- Tuna Steak: Healthy and fast (Check out our Air Fryer Tuna Steak Recipes)
Conclusion
Cooking steak in the air fryer is a game-changer for home cooks. By following the doneness chart and adjusting for thickness, you’ll always know exactly how long to cook steak in air fryer for your preferred level of doneness. Whether you love a juicy ribeye or a lean filet mignon, the air fryer delivers consistent results every time without the mess of traditional cooking methods.
FAQs About How Long to Cook Steak in Air Fryer
1. How long should I cook a steak in the air fryer for medium-rare?
For medium-rare steak in the air fryer, cook a 1-inch thick cut for 8–9 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. A 1.5-inch cut will need about 10–11 minutes. Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
2. Can I cook steak from frozen in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook steak from frozen in the air fryer. Simply add 5–7 extra minutes to the cooking time in the doneness chart. While cooking from frozen works, thawing the steak first will give you a more tender texture and even doneness.
3. Do I need to flip steak in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping steak halfway through the cooking time helps it cook evenly on both sides. This ensures you get the same perfect doneness all the way through.
4. What temperature should I set the air fryer for steak?
Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for the best sear and optimal texture. This high heat locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust on the steak.
5. How do I know my steak is done without cutting it?
The most accurate way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Refer to the doneness chart in this guide to match internal temperatures with your preferred level of doneness.
6. Is the air fryer better than pan-searing steak?
It depends on your preference. The air fryer is quicker, cleaner, and more consistent for many home cooks, while pan-searing gives a deeper crust but can create smoke and require more cleanup.
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