Air fryers have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook delicious and healthy meals with minimal effort. One dish that can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer is steak. A steak cooked in an air fryer comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and flavorful recipe for cooking steak in an air fryer.
Gathering the Ingredients and Tools
Before you begin cooking your air fryer steak, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. For this recipe, you will need the following:
1. Steak: Choose a high-quality cut of steak, such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. The thickness of the steak should be around 1 inch for best results.
2. Olive oil: This will help to coat the steak and enhance the flavor.
3. Salt and pepper: Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garlic powder: Optional, but adds a delicious garlicky flavor to the steak.
5. Air fryer: Make sure your air fryer is clean and functioning properly before you start.
Preparing the Steak
Start by removing the steak from the refrigerator and allowing it to reach room temperature. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Seasoning the Steak
Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. If you prefer a garlic flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder over the steak. Use your hands to gently massage the seasoning into the meat, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Coating the Steak with Olive Oil
Next, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the steak and use your hands to coat it evenly. The olive oil will help to enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the outside of the steak.
Cooking the Steak in the Air Fryer
Now it’s time to cook the steak in the air fryer. Follow these simple steps:
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This will ensure that the air fryer is hot enough to cook the steak properly.
Placing the Steak in the Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the seasoned steak in the basket. Make sure to leave enough space between the steaks to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
Cooking Time
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, cook a 1-inch thick steak for 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium, and 12-14 minutes for well-done. Flip the steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Checking for Doneness
To determine the doneness of your steak, use an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C), medium 145°F (63°C), and well-done 160°F (71°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
Resting and Serving the Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, carefully remove it from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Place the steak on a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Slicing and Serving
After the resting period, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure that the meat remains tender and easy to chew. Serve the steak immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Optional Seasonings and Sauces
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to enhance the flavor of your air fryer steak. Some popular options include a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of steak sauce, or a dollop of flavored butter.
Cleaning the Air Fryer
After your delicious steak is devoured, it’s important to clean your air fryer properly to ensure its longevity and continued performance. Follow these simple steps:
Cooling the Air Fryer
Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before cleaning. This will prevent any accidents or burns.
Removing and Washing the Parts
Carefully remove the basket and any other detachable parts from the air fryer. Wash them with warm soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge.
Drying and Reassembling
Thoroughly dry all the parts before reassembling the air fryer. This will prevent any moisture from accumulating and causing damage. Once everything is dry, put the parts back together and store the air fryer in a clean and dry place.
Conclusion
Cooking steak in an air fryer is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy a delicious meal. By following this straightforward recipe, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Remember to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools, season and coat the steak with olive oil, preheat and cook in the air fryer, check for doneness, allow the steak to rest, and finally, clean the air fryer properly for future use. Enjoy your mouthwatering air fryer steak with your favorite sides and sauces!