Do you love a good steak but don’t love the high calorie count, grease, and mess that can come with cooking one? Enter the air fryer! This kitchen gadget has taken the world by storm in recent years and for good reason. It can make cooking healthier and more convenient. This includes cooking steak! With a little know-how, you can perfect the art of cooking juicy and tender steak in your air fryer. Below we dive into everything you need to know to get started.
Why Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?
There are a number of reasons to consider cooking your steak in an air fryer. First and foremost, air frying your steak can significantly reduce the amount of fat and calories that are normally used in cooking. According to Healthline, using an air fryer can cut down on 70-80% of the oil that would typically be needed for frying, resulting in a healthier meal.
Additionally, air fryers can save time compared to other cooking methods such as grilling or pan frying. Because the hot air circulates around the food, cooking times can be significantly reduced. Air fryers are also more compact than grills, making them perfect for those with smaller living spaces.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Part of perfecting the art of cooking steak in an air fryer is selecting the right cut of meat. In general, you’ll want to choose a steak that is tender and has enough marbling to prevent it from becoming too dry during cooking. Some of the best cuts of steak for air frying include ribeye, strip steak, sirloin, and filet mignon.
Preparing Your Steak for Air Frying
Once you’ve selected your steak, it’s time to prepare it for air frying. You may choose to season your steak with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. Some people also opt to marinate their steak before cooking, but be sure to pat it dry before air frying.
Next, it’s time to preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. This can vary based on the type of steak you are cooking and your desired level of doneness. In general, it’s recommended to heat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cooking Your Steak in an Air Fryer
Now it’s time for the main event: cooking your steak in the air fryer. For most cuts of steak, you’ll want to place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium, and 12-14 minutes for well-done. However, it’s important to note that cooking times can vary based on the thickness and size of the steak.
To ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s recommended to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit. For medium steak, the internal temperature should be around 135-145 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, for well-done steak, the internal temperature should be around 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, be sure to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting in. This will help to seal in the juices and make for a more tender and flavorful steak.
Air Fryer Steak FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions about cooking steak in an air fryer.
Can I cook frozen steak in an air fryer? Yes, frozen steak can be cooked in an air fryer. However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure that it’s fully cooked.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer? Yes, it’s recommended to preheat your air fryer to ensure that your steak cooks evenly.
Can I cook a large steak in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook a large steak in an air fryer. However, you may need to cook it in batches to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Can I cook steak with bones in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook steak with bones in an air fryer. However, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that it’s fully cooked.
Conclusion
Cooking juicy and tender steak in an air fryer can be a game-changer for those looking to eat a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor. With a little know-how and the right cooking method, you can make restaurant-quality steak at home. So, why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!
