An air fryer oven combines the speed of air frying with oven-style heating, and it works well for cooking london broil evenly. If you want to know how to cook london broil in air fryer oven, the process is simple once you understand a few key steps. This cut is lean, affordable, and full of beef flavor when prepared right.
London broil is not actually a cut of meat. It is a cooking method that usually uses top round or flank steak. These cuts are tough but tasty, so they need the right technique. An air fryer oven gives you high heat and good air flow, which helps a lot.
In this guide, you will learn how to prep, season, cook, and rest your london broil. You will also get temperature targets and tips to keep it tender. Let’s get started.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather your tools and ingredients first. This saves time and keeps you organized. Here is a simple list.
- 1 to 1.5 pound london broil (top round or flank steak)
- Air fryer oven with a rack or basket
- Meat thermometer (very important)
- Tongs for flipping
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Aluminum foil for resting
For seasoning, you can keep it basic or go bolder. A simple mix works great.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: soy sauce, Worcestershire, or balsamic vinegar
Choosing The Right Cut
Top round is the most common choice. It is lean and firm. Flank steak also works but cooks faster. Look for a piece that is about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. If it is thicker, you may need more time.
Why Marinating Helps
London broil can be chewy if you skip this step. A marinade adds flavor and helps break down tough fibers. Even 30 minutes makes a difference. Overnight is even better.
Try this simple marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Put the meat in a zip bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Flip it once halfway through.
How To Cook London Broil In Air Fryer Oven
Now for the main event. Follow these steps for a tender, juicy result.
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer Oven
Set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it preheat for 5 minutes. A hot oven gives you a good sear on the outside. This locks in juices and builds flavor.
Step 2: Pat The Meat Dry
Take the meat out of the marinade. Use paper towels to pat it dry. Too much liquid on the surface will steam the meat instead of searing it. A dry surface is key for a nice crust.
Step 3: Season Or Oil The Meat
If you marinated, you can skip extra oil. If not, rub a little olive oil on both sides. Then sprinkle your salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Press the seasoning in gently with your hands.
Step 4: Place It In The Air Fryer Oven
Put the meat on the rack or in the basket. Do not overcrowd. If your piece is large, cut it in half so it fits in a single layer. Air needs to flow around the meat for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook At 400 Degrees Fahrenheit
Set the timer for 8 minutes. Then flip the meat with tongs. Cook for another 6 to 8 minutes. Total time is usually 14 to 16 minutes for medium rare.
Here is a quick guide based on thickness:
- 1 inch thick: 10 to 12 minutes total
- 1.5 inches thick: 14 to 16 minutes total
- 2 inches thick: 18 to 20 minutes total
Always flip halfway through. This helps both sides cook evenly.
Step 6: Check The Internal Temperature
Do not guess. Use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat.
- Rare: 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit
- Medium rare: 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit
- Medium: 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit
- Well done: 155 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
Remember that the temperature will rise 5 to 10 degrees while resting. So pull it out a bit early.
Step 7: Rest The Meat
This step is not optional. Place the meat on a cutting board. Cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat. If you cut it right away, the juices will run out and the meat will be dry.
Step 8: Slice Against The Grain
Look for the lines in the meat. These are the muscle fibers. Cut across them, not along them. This shortens the fibers and makes every bite more tender. Slice thin, about 1/4 inch thick.
Tips For Best Results
These small tips make a big difference.
- Do not skip the rest time. It really matters.
- Use a thermometer. It is the only way to know for sure.
- Let the meat sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- If your air fryer oven runs hot, lower the temp to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
- For extra flavor, brush with melted butter or a little steak sauce after resting.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many people overcook london broil. It goes from perfect to tough very fast. Stay close to the oven during the last few minutes. Also, do not skip the marinade if you have time. And never slice with the grain.
What To Serve With London Broil
This beef goes well with many sides. Try roasted potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. A baked sweet potato is also a good choice. For a low carb meal, serve it with grilled zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Storing And Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the air fryer oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. Do not use a microwave if you can avoid it. It makes the meat tough and rubbery.
You can also use leftover london broil in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Slice it thin and serve it cold for a quick lunch.
Final Thoughts
Cooking london broil in an air fryer oven is fast and easy. The key steps are simple: marinate, preheat, cook at high heat, check the temperature, rest, and slice against the grain. With a little practice, you will get a tender and flavorful meal every time. This method works great for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner. Give it a try and adjust the seasoning to your taste.