Steak in the Air Fryer

We’re not big steak eaters. However, when we want to cook a steak, we’ll choose one of two ways. One would be putting it on the grill, weather dependent. The other is using the air fryer.

Never thought about cooking steak in the air fryer? Prepare to have your mind blown.

How to cook steak in the air fryer

One of the reasons we love the idea of cooking the steak in the air fryer is how fast you can get it done. Prep time is about 10 minutes, primarily because, except for the steak, you’re working with four ingredients only. Cook time is a little more than that. So, a steak in under 30 minutes.

The other reason that air fryer is such a great tool is it allows you to cook indoors, in warm weather, without overheating your kitchen. We tend to cook most mills outdoors on the grill in the summer, because we don’t want to eat in a hot house. With the air fryer, that’s never an issue. No oven, no ambient heat.

Ingredients Overview and Instructions

As I mentioned, one of the reasons you can make a steak in the air fryer so quickly is how few ingredients it involves. Here’s a rundown of those ingredients.

• 2 ribeye steaks (8oz)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or any high-smoke-point oil)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step instructions

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, pat dry the steaks using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Rub both sides of the steaks with avocado oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Now its time to season the steak with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Make sure you gently press it into the meat so it adheres. Otherwise, when you pick up the steaks to place them in the air fryer, all of these seasonings will fall off.

Use tongs to pick up and place the seasoned steaks in the preheated air fryer basket. You’ll want to make sure sure they are not touching each other once you get them settled in the air fryer basket.

This is why we like to use our larger, square air fryer for cooking meals. With a round one, it’s nearly impossible not to have the food touching when you cook it.

Cook the steaks in the air fryer for the following times and how you like your steak:

• 6-8 minutes for medium-rare
• 8-10 minutes for medium
• 10-12 minutes for well-done

You’ll want to flip the steaks when you’re halfway through the cooking time. So, set a timer on your phone so you don’t forget.

Check the doneness of the steaks using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your preferred level of doneness. These are the temperatures to shoot for:

• Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
• Medium: 145°F (63°C)
• Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Slice the steaks against the grain into thin strips.

Final thoughts

Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and the model of your air fryer. Adjust accordingly.

Also, let the steaks come to room temperature before slicing. This will allow them to cook evenly throughout.

Finally, feel free to add additional seasonings or herbs according to your taste preferences. For example, for a spicier steak, try using Old Bay Seasoning. For a simpler taste, leave out the garlic powder.