Cooking steak in an air fryer is one of the simplest ways to get a beautifully seared outside and a tender, juicy centre. Whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done, the air fryer offers consistent results with minimal effort. It heats quickly, cooks evenly, and reduces the mess you often get from pan-frying or grilling. If you're wondering how long to cook steak in an air fryer, this guide will help you achieve perfect results every time.
How Long to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?
The cooking time depends on the thickness of your steak and your preferred doneness. Here's a simple cooking chart based on 2–3 cm thick steaks at 200°C:
| Doneness Level | Cook Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 6–7 minutes | 52°C–55°C |
| Medium Rare | 8–9 minutes | 55°C–57°C |
| Medium | 10–12 minutes | 60°C–63°C |
| Medium Well | 12–13 minutes | 65°C–67°C |
| Well Done | 13–15 minutes | 70°C+ |
Tip: Always rest your steak for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
How to Cook Steak in an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)
1. Choose the right steak
Ribeye, sirloin, scotch fillet, rump, and tenderloin all work beautifully. Look for good marbling for extra flavour.
2. Bring the steak to room temperature
Let the steak sit out for 15–20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
3. Season well
Brush with a little oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favourite steak rub.
4. Preheat the air fryer
Heat the air fryer to 200°C for even searing.
5. Cook the steak
Place the steak in a single layer inside the basket. Cook according to your preferred doneness (use the chart above). Flip halfway through for best results.
6. Rest and serve
Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside and enhances flavour.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Steak
- Avoid overcrowding—cook one or two steaks at a time.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Add a garlic herb butter on top after cooking for extra richness.
- For more browning, pat the steak dry before seasoning.
- Thicker steaks may need 1–2 extra minutes.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Steak
- Air-fried potatoes or wedges
- Steamed vegetables
- Garlic butter mushrooms
- Fresh salad
- Grilled asparagus
Steak pairs beautifully with simple sides, letting the flavour of the meat shine.
Shop Premium Air Fryers
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