Learning how to cook thin sirloin steak in air fryer is a fantastic way to get a quick, juicy meal with minimal fuss. This method is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers a great sear without heating up your whole kitchen.
Thin sirloin steaks, often cut between 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick, are ideal for the air fryer’s rapid air technology. They cook through fast while still retaining moisture, giving you a tender result in just minutes. You just need to follow a few simple steps for success.
How To Cook Thin Sirloin Steak In Air Fryer
This section provides the complete, step-by-step method. The key is preheating, proper seasoning, and not overcrowding the basket.
What You’ll Need
- 1 or 2 thin-cut sirloin steaks (about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon high-smoke-point oil (like avocado, canola, or light olive oil)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or your favorite steak rub
- An air fryer
- Tongs and a meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Steak: Take the steak out of the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly. Pat it completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
- Season Generously: Drizzle both sides of the steak with a little oil and rub it in. Then, season both sides liberally with salt, pepper, and any other dry seasonings you like. Don’t be shy with the salt.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This is a crucial step for getting a nice crust. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. A hot start makes a big difference.
- Cook the Steak: Place the seasoned steak in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there’s space around it for air to circulate. Cook at 400°F.
- For rare: Cook for 4-5 minutes total, flipping halfway.
- For medium-rare: Cook for 6-7 minutes total, flipping halfway.
- For medium: Cook for 8-9 minutes total, flipping halfway.
- Check the Temperature: The best way to know if your steak is done is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Carefully insert it into the thickest part of the steak.
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (recommended for best balance of tenderness and flavor)
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Let it Rest: This might be the hardest step, but it’s essential. Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy.
- Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the steak against the grain. This means cut perpendicular to the long muscle fibers you see. It makes the steak much more tender to eat.
Why the Air Fryer Works So Well for Thin Steaks
The air fryer’s powerful fan circulates super-heated air all around the steak. This creates a beautiful, browned exterior very quickly. Because thin steaks have less mass, they cook through before they have a chance to dry out. It’s a faster and less splattery alternative to pan-searing.
You also have more control than with a grill, especially for smaller cuts. There’s no risk of the steak falling through grates, and the temperature remains consistent. It’s a very forgiving method for beginners.
Essential Tips for the Best Air Fryer Steak
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Starting with a hot air fryer is non-negotiable for a proper sear. It mimics the effect of a hot pan or grill.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: The drier the surface of your steak, the better the Maillard reaction (that tasty browning) will be. This is a simple step with huge impact.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. If you pile steaks on top of each other, they’ll steam instead of sear. You’ll end up with gray, tough meat.
- Use a Thermometer: Guessing doneness is a recipe for overcoooked steak. A quick-read thermometer takes the guesswork out and guarantees perfect results every single time.
- Rest Without Exception: Cutting into a steak immediately after cooking lets all the flavorful juices run out onto the plate. Letting it rest keeps those juices in the meat where they belong.
Common Seasoning and Marinade Ideas
While salt and pepper are classic, you can easily change the flavor profile. Here’s a few simple ideas:
Simple Dry Rub
- Mix equal parts salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokey note.
Quick Herb Crust
- After oiling the steak, press a mixture of finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and black pepper onto the surface before air frying.
30-Minute Soy Marinade
- Whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Marinate the steak for 30 minutes in the fridge, then pat very dry before cooking. The soy sauce helps tenderize the meat.
Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Problems
Steak is Too Tough
This usually means it was overcooked. Thin steaks cook very fast, so even an extra minute can make a difference. Next time, reduce the cook time by a minute and rely on your thermometer. Also, ensure you are slicing it against the grain.
Steak Didn’t Get a Good Sear
The most likely culprits are: not preheating the air fryer, not drying the steak enough, or overcrowding the basket. Make sure you check all three of those boxes. Some air fryer models also have weaker heating elements, so you might need to add a minute to the cook time.
Steak is Cooking Unevenly
Air fryers have a heating element usually at the top. If one part of your steak is thinner than another, the thinner part will cook faster. Try to select steaks of even thickness. You can also tuck under very thin edges or shield them with a small piece of foil.
Serving Suggestions
A perfectly cooked thin sirloin steak is versatile. Here’s some ways to serve it:
- Slice it and serve over a bed of fresh greens for a steak salad.
- Pair it with classic sides like air fryer roasted potatoes, asparagus, or mushrooms.
- Slice it thinly for steak sandwiches or tacos.
- Serve it whole with a pat of compound butter melting on top.
- Add it to a rice bowl with some veggies and a fried egg.
FAQ Section
How long do you cook a thin steak in the air fryer?
At 400°F, a 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick sirloin steak takes about 6-7 minutes total (flipping halfway) for medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy, as air fryer models can vary.
Do you need to flip steak in air fryer?
Yes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time is important. It ensures even browning and cooking on both sides, since the heat in most air fryers comes primarily from the top.
Can you cook a frozen thin sirloin steak in the air fryer?
You can, but it’s not ideal for best results. It will take longer and may cook unevenly. For a frozen steak, add 3-5 extra minutes and use a thermometer. Thawing it first in the fridge is always the better option for a juicy, evenly cooked steak.
What other thin cuts work well in the air fryer?
This method is excellent for any thin, quick-cooking steak. Skirt steak, flank steak, and even thin ribeyes or strips work great. Just adjust the time slightly based on thickness. The principles remain the same: preheat, season, don’t overcrowd, and check the temperature.
Why did my steak smoke in the air fryer?
Smoke is usually caused by fat or oil dripping onto the heating element. Trimming excess fat and using an oil with a high smoke point (like avocado oil) can help. Also, make sure your air fryer is clean, as old grease and food particles will smoke.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tip
After cooking steak, let your air fryer cool completely. Remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm, soapy water. If any steak juices or fat have dripped into the bottom of the unit, wipe it out carefully. Keeping your air fryer clean prevents smoke and ensures it works efficiently for a long time.
Mastering how to cook thin sirloin steak in air fryer is a simple skill that pays off with delicious, reliable meals. With a hot preheat, a good sear, and a accurate thermometer, you can have a restaurant-quality steak ready in under 15 minutes. The convenience and consistent results are hard to beat, making it a technique you’ll return to again and again.