Frankly speaking, cooking steak can be frustrating because it’s all too easy to either overcook or undercook it. An air fryer, however, can alleviate these issues. Here，we’ll show you how to use an air fryer to easily prepare a delicious steak. Moreover, we’ll provide tips for complementary side dishes and pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Ⅰ.Time Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:22 minutes
Ⅱ.What You’ll Need
- Steak
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil or another cooking oil
- Seasonings:Garlic powder or onion powder
Ⅲ.Detailed Cooking Steps
1.Defrost Your Steak
Begin by allowing your steak to sit out until it reaches room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes and is a crucial step to ensure your steak cooks evenly throughout. An even temperature throughout the steak will prevent the outside from cooking too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.
2.Dry and Spice It Up
Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Moisture on the surface of the steak can prevent it from achieving that desirable sear. Once dry, season both sides of the steak to your liking. You can keep it simple with salt and freshly ground black pepper or add other spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a hint of smoked paprika for depth. For those who prefer marinated steaks, ensure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
3.Preheat Your Air Fryer
Turn your air fryer on and preheat it to 400°F (204°C). Preheating is essential as it ensures the steak starts cooking at the right temperature for that perfect sear on the outside. It usually takes about 3-5 minutes for most air fryers to reach this temperature.
4.Place the Steak:
Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully place your steak in the air fryer basket. Ensure it’s placed in a single layer with some space around it to allow air circulation. This helps in cooking the steak evenly and achieving a good crust on all sides.
5.Cooking Time:
For a medium-rare steak, cook for approximately 7 minutes. If you prefer your steak medium, aim for 10 minutes. For those who enjoy their steak well-done, cook for up to 14 minutes. Remember to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even cook on both sides.
6.Rest for a Better Taste:
After cooking, transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful. It also prevents the juices from running out when you cut into the steak, keeping it succulent.
7.Ready to Serve:
After resting, your steak is ready to be served. You can slice it against the grain for more tenderness or serve it whole with your favorite sides.
Ⅳ.Suggested Side Dishes
1.Sides：
Complement your air-fried steak with some roasted asparagus or a fresh arugula salad for a balanced meal. For something heartier, air fryer sweet potato fries are a delicious match.
2.Sauces：
A simple chimichurri or a creamy peppercorn sauce can elevate your steak from great to extraordinary.
3.Wine Pairing：
A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the steak. If you prefer white wine, choose a Chardonnay with enough body to stand up to the meat.
Ⅴ.Conclusion
Have you tried cooking steak in your air fryer? What’s your favorite steak recipe? Share your experiences and recipes in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and our plates deliciously filled!
