If you’re wondering how long to cook bottom round roast in air fryer, you’ve come to the right place. This lean cut can be tricky, but your air fryer is a fantastic tool for getting a flavorful, tender result without heating up your whole kitchen.
Bottom round roast is a budget-friendly beef cut from the cow’s hindquarters. It’s known for being lean and muscular, which means it can become tough if not cooked properly. The key is using the right temperature and time, and letting it rest. Your air fryer’s rapid air circulation is perfect for creating a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
How Long To Cook Bottom Round Roast In Air Fryer
The general rule for cooking a bottom round roast in the air fryer is about 20 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C). This will typically yield a medium doneness. However, the exact time depends on several factors, including the size of your roast, your desired doneness, and even your specific air fryer model.
Always use a meat thermometer for the best results. This is the most reliable way to ensure your roast is cooked perfectly and safely.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked air fryer bottom round roast.
1. Preparing the Roast
Start by patting the roast completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Then, drizzle it with a bit of oil—avocado, olive, or canola oil all work well. Season generously on all sides. A classic mix is salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Let the seasoned roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This promotes more even cooking.
2. Preheating the Air Fryer
Always preheat your air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3-5 minutes. A hot air fryer will start cooking the exterior immediately, locking in juices.
3. Cooking Time and Temperature
Place the roast in the air fryer basket, fat-side up if it has a fat cap. Cook at 375°F (190°C).
- For a 2-pound roast: Cook for about 40 minutes for medium-rare, or 45-50 for medium.
- For a 3-pound roast: Cook for about 60 minutes for medium-rare, or 65-70 for medium.
Check the internal temperature about 10 minutes before the expected finish time. All air fryers cook a little differently.
4. Checking for Doneness
Use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding any bone or large fat pockets.
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C) – Recommended for tenderness
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Remember, the temperature will rise by 5-10 degrees while the meat rests (this is called carryover cooking).
5. The Essential Resting Period
This is non-negotiable. Once your roast reaches temperature, take it out of the air fryer and place it on a cutting board. Loosely tent it with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the juices, which have been driven to the center by the heat, to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice it immediately, all those flavorful juices will just run out onto the board, leaving you with a dry roast.
Tips for a More Tender Roast
Since bottom round is a lean cut, a few extra steps can make it even better.
- Marinate it: A simple marinade with acid (like vinegar or lemon juice), oil, and herbs can help break down muscle fibers. Marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the fridge.
- Use a dry brine: Heavily salt the roast and leave it uncovered on a rack in your fridge for 12-24 hours. This seasons the meat deeply and helps it retain moisture.
- Slice it thin: Always slice cooked bottom round roast against the grain. Look for the lines of muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them. This makes each peice much more tender to eat.
- Consider a lower temperature: Some cooks prefer to start at a lower temp (e.g., 325°F) for a longer period, then finish with a high-heat blast. This can promote more even doneness.
What to Serve With Your Roast
Your air fryer can handle the sides too! Here are some classic pairings:
- Air fryer roasted potatoes or baby potatoes.
- Simple steamed green beans or asparagus.
- Horseradish sauce or a creamy au jus made from the drippings.
- A fresh garden salad.
- Yorkshire puddings, if you’re feeling traditional.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these pitfalls for the best outcome.
- Skipping the preheat: This leads to uneven cooking.
- Not using a thermometer: Guessing will often lead to overcooking.
- Skipping the rest: You’ll lose precious moisture.
- Overcrowding the basket: Ensure there’s space for air to circulate around the roast.
- Slicing with the grain: This results in a chewy, stringy texture.
Leftovers and Storage
Leftover bottom round roast is incredibly versatile. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can use it for:
- Beef sandwiches with horseradish mayo.
- Chopped up in a hearty beef salad.
- Diced for beef tacos or quesadillas.
- Sliced thin for a chef’s salad.
- Added to soups or stews at the end of cooking to warm through.
You can also freeze sliced roast for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or use a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
FAQ Section
Can I cook a frozen bottom round roast in the air fryer?
It’s not recommended. For even cooking and food safety, it’s best to thaw the roast completely in the refrigerator first. Cooking from frozen will likely result in an overcooked exterior and a cold, undercooked center.
Why is my bottom round roast tough from the air fryer?
The most common reasons are overcooking (not using a thermometer) or not slicing it against the grain. Also, remember that bottom round is naturally a less tender cut, so proper preparation and doneness are key.
What’s the best air fryer temperature for beef roast?
375°F (190°C) is a great all-purpose temperature. It cooks the roast through efficiently while creating a nice browned exterior. For larger roasts, you might start at 350°F to cook the interior more gently before a final sear.
Do I need to flip the roast during cooking?
It’s a good idea to flip the roast halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning on all sides since the heat source in an air fryer is usually from the top.
Can I add vegetables to the basket with the roast?
Yes, but be mindful of cooking times. Dense root vegetables like potatoes and carrots may need to be added at the beginning. Softer vegetables like green beans or zucchini should be added in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Make sure the vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces and are coated in oil and seasonings.
How do I make a gravy from the drippings?
After removing the roast, you might find some browned bits and fat in the bottom of the air fryer drawer. Carefully transfer these drippings to a small saucepan. Add a tablespoon of flour and cook for a minute. Whisk in about a cup of beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking a bottom round roast in your air fryer is a straightforward method that yields impressive results. By focusing on the correct internal temperature, allowing for a proper rest, and slicing thin against the grain, you can turn an economical cut of beef into a delicious and satisfying centerpiece for any meal. With a little practice, you’ll find the perfect timing for your prefered doneness and your specific appliance.