The air fryer has quickly become a popular kitchen appliance for its ability to create crispy and delicious meals with minimal oil. From fries to chicken nuggets, it seems like there’s nothing this handy device can’t do. But what about cooking steaks? Can you really achieve that perfect, juicy and tender steak in the air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes! In this article, we will explore how long to cook steaks in the air fryer to achieve those perfectly tender results in just minutes.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to choose the right cut of steak. While the air fryer can work wonders with various cuts, some cuts tend to fare better than others. Ideally, you want to go for steaks that are about 1 inch thick, such as ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin. These cuts tend to cook more evenly and can retain their juiciness when cooked in the air fryer.
Preparing the Steaks
To ensure your steaks come out perfectly tender and flavorful, proper preparation is key. Start by allowing your steaks to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking throughout. While the steaks are reaching room temperature, you can season them with your preferred blend of spices. Be generous with your seasonings to enhance the flavor of the steak. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and steak seasoning.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking your steaks, it’s crucial to preheat your air fryer. Just like with any oven or cooking appliance, preheating allows for more consistent and accurate cooking. Set your air fryer to the desired temperature (typically around 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 205 degrees Celsius) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
How Long to Cook Steaks
Now that your steaks are prepared and your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to get cooking! The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and how well-done you prefer them. Here’s a general guideline to follow:
Medium-Rare:
For a medium-rare steak that is still pink and juicy in the center, cook a 1-inch thick steak for about 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. This will result in a slightly seared exterior and a tender, medium-rare interior.
Medium:
If you prefer your steak cooked to medium, giving you a slightly pink center but with less juiciness, increase the cooking time to around 12-14 minutes. This will give you a medium steak that is still tender and flavorful.
Well-Done:
For those who enjoy a well-done steak with no pink whatsoever, cook your 1-inch thick steak for about 16-18 minutes. This will result in a fully cooked steak that is still tender, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
Tips for Perfectly Tender Results
While cooking times can serve as a general guideline, it’s important to know that factors such as steak thickness and air fryer models can affect the results. To help you achieve those perfectly tender results every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Adjusting Cooking Times:
If your steak is thicker than 1 inch, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Add a few more minutes per side to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
2. Flipping the Steak:
To ensure even cooking, it’s essential to flip your steak halfway through the cooking process. This will result in a more evenly seared exterior and a juicy interior.
3. Letting it Rest:
Once your steak is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resist the temptation to cut into it right away. Instead, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This will result in a more tender and flavorful steak.
4. Monitoring Internal Temperature:
For a foolproof way to determine the doneness of your steak, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, and for medium-rare, aim for a temperature of around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit (55-57 degrees Celsius). Adjust accordingly for your desired level of doneness.
Conclusion
Cooking steaks in the air fryer can be a game-changer for those looking to enjoy a perfectly tender and delicious steak in just minutes. By choosing the right cut, properly preparing the steaks, preheating the air fryer, and following the recommended cooking times, you can achieve those juicy and flavorful results every time. Remember to adjust cooking times based on steak thickness and use a meat thermometer for added precision. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a mouthwatering steak that is sure to impress.