How Long Do You Put A Steak In The Air Fryer

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Cooking steak in an air fryer requires precise timing that depends on thickness and desired doneness. So, how long do you put a steak in the air fryer? For a standard one-inch thick steak, you will cook it for about 10 to 14 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping it halfway through.

This guide covers exact timings for different cuts and thicknesses. You’ll also learn how to get a perfect crust without a grill.

How Long Do You Put A Steak In The Air Fryer

The total cook time varies based on three main factors. These are the thickness of the meat, the temperature of the air fryer, and your preferred level of doneness.

Most air fryer steak recipes use a temperature between 380°F and 400°F. At 400°F, a one-inch steak takes roughly 12 minutes for medium-rare. If you like your steak well-done, you might need 16 to 18 minutes.

Always preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes before adding the steak. This helps the meat cook evenly and gives a better sear on the outside.

Timing Chart By Thickness And Doneness

Use this quick reference to plan your cook. Times are based on a preheated air fryer set to 400°F.

  • 1-inch steak: Rare 8-10 min, Medium-Rare 10-12 min, Medium 12-14 min, Well-Done 16-18 min
  • 1.5-inch steak: Rare 12-14 min, Medium-Rare 14-16 min, Medium 16-18 min, Well-Done 20-22 min
  • 2-inch steak: Rare 16-18 min, Medium-Rare 18-20 min, Medium 20-22 min, Well-Done 24-26 min

These times are for a single steak. If you cook two steaks at once, add 2 to 4 minutes to the total time. Do not overcrowd the basket.

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How To Cook Steak In An Air Fryer Step By Step

Follow these simple steps for a juicy steak with a nice brown crust.

  1. Take your steak out of the fridge 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
  2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface prevents a good sear.
  3. Rub both sides with a little oil. Use avocado oil or another high-smoke-point oil.
  4. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the steak in the basket. Make sure it lays flat and does not touch the heating element.
  7. Cook for half the total time. Then flip the steak with tongs.
  8. Cook for the remaining time. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
  9. Remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes.

Resting is important. It allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat. If you cut it right away, the juices will run out and the steak will be dry.

Best Internal Temperatures For Steak

Timing is a guide, but temperature is the truth. Use a digital meat thermometer for the best results. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, away from fat and bone.

  • Rare: 120°F to 125°F
  • Medium-Rare: 130°F to 135°F
  • Medium: 140°F to 145°F
  • Medium-Well: 150°F to 155°F
  • Well-Done: 160°F and above

Remember that the temperature will rise 5 to 10 degrees while the steak rests. So pull it out of the air fryer a few degrees before your target.

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Which Steaks Work Best In An Air Fryer

Not all cuts are equal. Some steaks do better in an air fryer than others.

Best choices:

  • Ribeye
  • New York strip
  • Sirloin
  • Filet mignon
  • Flank steak (cook whole, then slice against the grain)

Avoid very thin cuts like skirt steak or cube steak. They cook too fast and can become tough. Also, avoid bone-in steaks that are too large for your basket.

Tips For A Better Air Fryer Steak

These small changes make a big difference in the final result.

  • Do not stack steaks. Cook them in a single layer.
  • Use a meat thermometer. It removes all the guesswork.
  • Flip only once. Opening the basket too often lets heat escape.
  • Let the steak rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
  • Slice against the grain for a more tender bite.
  • Add a pat of butter on top after cooking for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Many people make the same errors when cooking steak in an air fryer. Here is what to watch out for.

  • Skipping the preheat. A cold air fryer leads to uneven cooking.
  • Not drying the steak. Wet meat steams instead of sears.
  • Using too much oil. A light coating is enough. Too much oil can smoke.
  • Cutting too soon. Always rest the steak for at least 5 minutes.
  • Overcrowding the basket. Air needs to flow around the steak for even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Cook A Frozen Steak In An Air Fryer?

Yes, but it takes longer. Add about 5 to 8 minutes to the total cook time. The outside may cook faster than the inside, so use a thermometer to check doneness.

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Do You Need To Flip The Steak?

Yes, flipping halfway through helps both sides cook evenly. It also gives a more balanced crust.

What Temperature Should The Air Fryer Be For Steak?

400°F is the most common setting. Some recipes use 380°F for thicker cuts to prevent the outside from burning before the inside cooks through.

How Do You Know When The Steak Is Done?

Use a meat thermometer. Check the internal temperature in the thickest part. Compare it to the doneness chart above.

Can You Reheat Steak In An Air Fryer?

Yes. Set the air fryer to 350°F and heat for 3 to 5 minutes. This keeps the steak from drying out better than a microwave.

Final Thoughts On Air Fryer Steak Timing

So, how long do you put a steak in the air fryer? For a one-inch steak at 400°F, plan on 10 to 14 minutes for medium-rare to medium. Adjust the time based on thickness and your desired doneness.

Always use a meat thermometer for the best results. Let the steak rest, slice against the grain, and enjoy a perfectly cooked steak from your air fryer.