An air fryer can broil a steak surprisingly well if you use the right temperature and flip timing. Learning how to broil a steak in an air fryer gives you a fast, indoor option that produces a browned crust and a juicy center.
The method works best with steaks that are at least one inch thick. Thin cuts cook too fast and tend to dry out before they brown.
Why An Air Fryer Works For Broiling Steak
An air fryer moves hot air at high speed around the food. That moving air mimics the dry, intense heat of a broiler.
The top heating element sits close to the steak, so the surface dries and browns quickly. You get a crust without heating up your whole kitchen.
It is not a perfect match for a real broiler, but it is close. For small kitchens or cold weather, it is a great backup plan.
How To Broil A Steak In An Air Fryer
Follow these steps in order. The whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness and doneness.
Step 1: Pick The Right Steak
Choose a boneless cut that is one to one and a half inches thick. Good options include:
- Ribeye
- New York strip
- Sirloin
- Filet mignon
Avoid skirt steak or flank steak for this method. They are too thin and will overcook fast.
Step 2: Bring The Steak To Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge 20 to 30 minutes before cooking. Cold meat cooks unevenly in an air fryer.
Pat it dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface steams the meat instead of browning it.
Step 3: Season Generously
Use coarse salt and black pepper at minimum. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak rub.
Apply the seasoning to both sides. Press it in lightly so it sticks.
If you have time, salt the steak 40 minutes ahead. This helps the salt soak in and improves flavor.
Step 4: Preheat The Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it run empty for 5 minutes.
Preheating is important. A hot basket starts the browning right away.
Some air fryers have a broil setting. If yours does, use it. If not, the highest temperature works fine.
Step 5: Place The Steak In The Basket
Put the steak in the basket in a single layer. Do not stack or crowd it.
If your air fryer has a rack, use it. The rack lets air flow under the steak too.
For easier cleanup, line the bottom with foil. Do not cover the steak with foil.
Step 6: Broil And Flip
Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Use this timing guide for a one-inch steak:
- Rare: 4 minutes per side
- Medium rare: 5 minutes per side
- Medium: 6 minutes per side
- Medium well: 7 minutes per side
Flip the steak halfway through with tongs. Do not use a fork, since it lets juices escape.
For steaks thicker than one inch, add one to two minutes per side.
Step 7: Check The Temperature
Use a meat thermometer for the best results. Insert it into the thickest part, away from fat.
- Rare: 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit
- Medium rare: 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit
- Medium: 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit
- Medium well: 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit
Remember that the temperature rises 5 to 10 degrees while the steak rests.
Step 8: Rest Before Slicing
Move the steak to a cutting board or plate. Cover it loosely with foil.
Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This lets the juices settle so they stay in the meat.
Slice against the grain. This makes each bite more tender.
Tips For Better Results
Use A Light Oil Coating
Brush the steak with a small amount of high smoke point oil. Avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well.
Oil helps the surface brown and keeps the seasoning in place. Do not overdo it, since too much oil can smoke.
Keep The Basket Clean
Grease buildup can cause smoke. Clean the basket and the heating element area after each use.
If your air fryer smokes during cooking, stop it and check for drippings.
Do Not Overcrowd
Cook one or two steaks at a time, depending on the size of your air fryer. Air needs to move around each piece.
If you cook two steaks, leave space between them. They may need one extra minute per side.
Adjust For Your Air Fryer Model
Every air fryer runs a bit different. Some run hotter, some run cooler.
Check the steak a minute early on your first try. Then note the exact time that worked for next time.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Cooking a cold steak straight from the fridge
- Skipping the preheat
- Forgetting to flip halfway
- Using a fork to turn the meat
- Slicing right away without resting
- Piling steaks on top of each other
Each of these mistakes costs you flavor or texture. Avoid them and your steak turns out much better.
Serving Ideas
Let the steak rest while you finish a simple side. Good pairings include roasted potatoes, green beans, or a small salad.
Slice the steak thin for sandwiches or tacos the next day. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes. This keeps it from drying out.
Final Thoughts
Broiling a steak in an air fryer is fast, simple, and clean. The keys are a thick cut, a hot preheated basket, and a mid cook flip.
Use a thermometer for doneness and always rest the meat before slicing. With a little practice, you can get a steakhouse style crust right on your counter.