There’s something special about a perfectly cooked steak—seared on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. But achieving that steakhouse-quality crust at home can be tricky. That’s where the air fryer comes in. If you haven’t tried making steak in your air fryer yet, you’re in for a treat.
I remember the first time I experimented with air fryer steak. I was skeptical—could this small countertop appliance really deliver that perfect sear and juicy interior? But after just one bite, I was hooked. The high-powered convection cooking locks in the juices while creating an irresistible crust, all without the hassle of firing up the grill or dealing with a smoky stovetop.
And the best part? Cooking steak in an air fryer is incredibly easy. Whether you love your steak rare, medium, or well-done, this method ensures consistent, foolproof results every time.
If you’re a fan of air frying, you might also love Air Fryer Salmon Bites—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor. Another great pairing is Air Fry Ribs, a quick and delicious way to enjoy fall-off-the-bone goodness without the long cooking times.
Ready to make the best air fryer steak of your life? Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
There are countless ways to cook steak, but using an air fryer has completely changed the game for me. Here’s why:
- Perfectly Cooked Every Time – No more guesswork! The air fryer gives you a perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Quick and Easy – No need to preheat a grill or babysit a skillet. Just season, place in the air fryer, and let it do the work.
- Less Mess – Say goodbye to oil splatters on your stovetop. The air fryer contains everything, making cleanup a breeze.
- Great for Any Cut – Whether you’re using ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, the air fryer works beautifully with different cuts of steak.
- Hands-Off Cooking – I love being able to prep a side dish or salad while my steak cooks perfectly in the air fryer.
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy a restaurant-quality steak at home with minimal effort, this air fryer method is the way to go. It’s one of those recipes that once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to again and again.
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect air fryer steak, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
Steak & Seasoning
- Steak (1-inch thick) – Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, or New York strip all work great.
- Olive oil – Helps create a crispy crust and enhances the seasoning’s flavor.
- Salt & black pepper – The essentials for bringing out the best in your steak.
- Garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika (optional) – Enhances the steak’s natural smokiness.
- Butter (for serving) – Adds richness and moisture to the finished steak.
Optional Enhancements
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) – Perfect for infusing the steak with extra flavor.
- Crushed garlic cloves – A great addition if you love a garlicky aroma.
Recommended Side Pairings
- Air fryer asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts – Quick and healthy side options.
- Garlic butter mashed potatoes – A creamy, indulgent pairing.
- A fresh green salad – Light and refreshing, balancing the richness of the steak.
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Steak
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
- Pat the steak dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps create a perfect sear.
- Brush both sides with olive oil to help the seasonings stick and promote browning.
2: Season the Steak
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Rub the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the steak.
3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a good sear.
4: Cook the Steak
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer (avoid overlapping).
- Cook at 400°F for the following times:
- Rare: 6-7 minutes
- Medium-rare: 8-9 minutes
- Medium: 10-11 minutes
- Medium-well: 12-13 minutes
- Well-done: 14-15 minutes
- Flip the steak halfway through cooking for an even sear.
5: Let It Rest
- Remove the steak from the air fryer and place it on a plate.
- Top with a small pat of butter and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides!
Cooking steak in an air fryer is incredibly simple, yet it delivers outstanding results every time. Now, let’s go over some important tips to ensure your steak turns out perfectly.
Important Tips for Success
To get the juiciest, most flavorful air fryer steak, keep these tips in mind:
1. Choose the Right Cut
- Best options: Ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, and New York strip all work beautifully.
- Avoid lean cuts: Super lean cuts like eye of round can dry out quickly in the air fryer.
2. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
- Let your steak sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cold steak won’t cook evenly.
3. Don’t Skip the Preheat
- Preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) ensures a nice sear and even cooking.
4. Avoid Overcrowding
- Cook one or two steaks at a time in a single layer. Overlapping will prevent proper air circulation and even cooking.
5. Flip Halfway Through
- To get an even crust on both sides, flip the steak at the halfway mark.
6. Let It Rest
- Once cooked, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for keeping it juicy.
7. Use a Meat Thermometer for Precision
If you want restaurant-level accuracy, use a thermometer:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F
- Well-Done: 160°F+
By following these simple tips, your air fryer steak will turn out perfectly every time! Now, let me share a little personal insight about why this method has become my go-to.
Personal Insights
Cooking steak used to feel intimidating. I’d worry about overcooking, undercooking, or not getting that restaurant-quality crust. But once I discovered the magic of the air fryer, it changed everything.
One of my favorite memories is making air fryer steak for a dinner gathering. I was skeptical that it could really replace a sizzling cast-iron skillet, but after seeing my guests’ reactions, I knew I had found something special. The steaks came out perfectly caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, and I barely had to lift a finger. Since then, it’s been my go-to method whenever I want a no-fail, stress-free steak dinner.
Plus, I love how this method frees me up to focus on making sides—like crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites or juicy Air Fry Ribs—without juggling multiple pans.
If you haven’t tried air frying your steak yet, trust me, it’s a total game-changer! Now, let’s go over a few more expert chef tips to help you master this recipe.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Want to take your air fryer steak to the next level? Here are some expert tips to make it even better:
1. Use a High-Quality Steak
- The better the steak, the better the results. Look for USDA Prime or Choice cuts with good marbling for the most flavor.
2. Season Generously
- Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper—steak needs bold seasoning to shine. If you love extra depth, try a steak seasoning blend or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
3. Add Butter for a Steakhouse Finish
- A small pat of butter on the steak right after cooking adds richness and enhances flavor. You can even mix in minced garlic and fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.
4. Don’t Overcook
- Air fryers cook faster than traditional methods. Check the internal temperature early to prevent overcooking.
5. Let the Steak Rest
- Resting allows the juices to redistribute, so your steak stays juicy and flavorful. Cutting into it too soon lets all those juices escape.
6. Pair with the Right Sides
- A perfectly cooked steak deserves the right sides. Try serving it with:
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes for a rich and creamy complement.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts for a healthy, crispy side.
- A Fresh Green Salad to balance the richness.
Now that you have all the chef’s secrets, let’s talk about the best ways to store and reheat your steak to keep it just as delicious the next day.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftover air fryer steak, don’t worry—it can be just as delicious the next day if stored and reheated properly.
How to Store Air Fryer Steak
- Refrigerate: Place the cooled steak in an airtight container or wrap it in foil, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Steak Without Drying It Out
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Stovetop: Warm it in a skillet over low heat with a little butter for extra moisture.
- Oven: Place in a 250°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Avoid the Microwave: Microwaving can dry out the steak and make it rubbery. If necessary, use a low-power setting and reheat in short intervals.
By following these steps, your leftover steak will taste just as juicy and flavorful as when you first made it. Now, let’s answer some common questions about cooking steak in an air fryer!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I cook my steak in the air fryer?
Cooking time depends on the thickness and desired doneness. For a 1-inch steak, cook at 400°F for:
- Rare: 6-7 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 8-9 minutes
- Medium: 10-11 minutes
- Medium-Well: 12-13 minutes
- Well-Done: 14-15 minutes
What temperature do you heat steak in an air fryer?
For the best results, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps develop a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender.
Is it better to air fry steak or pan-sear it?
Both methods have their perks! Air frying is hands-off, easy, and mess-free, while pan-searing gives you more control over the crust. However, the air fryer is great for consistent cooking without oil splatters.
How long to cook a 1-inch steak at 400 degrees?
A 1-inch steak typically needs 10 minutes for medium doneness, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on how well you like your steak cooked.
Should steak be at 350 or 400?
For the best sear and juiciness, cook your steak at 400°F. Lower temperatures, like 350°F, will take longer and may not create the same caramelized crust.
Is 400 hot enough for steak?
Yes! 400°F is ideal for air frying steak. It mimics the high heat of grilling or pan-searing, giving you that delicious steakhouse-style finish.