[GUIDE] How Long To Cook Flank Steak In Air Fryer

Cooking flank steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare this flavorful and tender cut of beef. The air fryer uses hot air to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. In this article, we will explore the process of cooking flank steak in an air fryer, from choosing the right cut of meat to preparing and cooking it to perfection.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Flank Steak In Air Fryer

The quick answer to how long to cook flank steak in an air fryer is approximately 10-12 minutes at 400°F (204°C) for medium-rare doneness. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.

Choosing Flank Steak

When choosing flank steak for cooking in an air fryer, it’s important to select a well-marbled piece of meat. Look for a steak that is bright red with creamy white marbling throughout the meat. This marbling will ensure that the steak stays tender and juicy during the cooking process.

Preparing Flank Steak

Before cooking the flank steak in the air fryer, it’s crucial to properly prepare the meat. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Next, season the steak with your choice of spices and seasonings. A simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavor combinations.

If time allows, marinating the flank steak for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. A marinade of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and olive oil is a classic choice for flank steak.

Once the steak is seasoned and/or marinated, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the meat cook more evenly and ensures a juicy end result.

Air Fryer Temperature For Cooking Flank Steak

The ideal temperature for cooking flank steak in an air fryer is 400°F (204°C). This high temperature will quickly sear the exterior of the steak, creating a flavorful crust while locking in the juices.

Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the seasoned flank steak to ensure it cooks evenly.

Air Fryer Cooking Time For Cooking Flank Steak

The cooking time for flank steak in an air fryer will vary based on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare flank steak that is about 1 inch thick, cook it for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (204°C). If you prefer your steak more well-done, add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the steak with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C).

After cooking, allow the flank steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.

Cooking flank steak in an air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of beef. By choosing a well-marbled steak, properly seasoning and preparing it, and cooking it at the right temperature and time, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak with a crispy crust and juicy interior. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a versatile ingredient in other dishes, cooking flank steak in an air fryer is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

How To Cook Flank Steak In An Air Fryer

The air fryer revolutionized the way we cook our favorite foods. Its ability to crisp foods without the need for excessive oil has made it a popular kitchen appliance. One dish that can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer is flank steak. Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of meat that can be tough if not cooked properly.

Cooking flank steak in an air fryer requires a few simple steps to ensure a juicy and tender result. Let’s take a look at the process:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Before cooking the flank steak, it’s important to preheat the air fryer. This ensures that the cooking temperature is consistent from the beginning.

2. Season the flank steak: Season the flank steak with your desired spices and marinades. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat.

3. Preheat the air fryer basket: Place the air fryer basket in the preheated air fryer for a few minutes. This step ensures that the steak will sear on contact, creating a flavorful crust.

4. Cook the flank steak: Once the air fryer basket is preheated, carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow for proper airflow. Cook the steak at a high temperature, typically around 400°F (200°C), for about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.

5. Rest the flank steak: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the flank steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier steak.

6. Slice and serve: After the resting period, slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve the steak with your favorite sides or use it as a delicious filling for sandwiches or tacos.

By following these steps, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak with a crispy exterior and tender interior, all thanks to your air fryer.

Cooking Time For Frozen Flank Steak

Sometimes we find ourselves with a frozen flank steak and need to find a way to cook it quickly. The air fryer comes to the rescue in this situation, as it can efficiently cook frozen flank steak. Here’s how to adjust the cooking time for frozen flank steak in an air fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer: As with fresh flank steak, it’s essential to preheat the air fryer before cooking frozen flank steak. This ensures that the steak will cook evenly.

2. Season the frozen flank steak: Season the frozen flank steak with your desired spices and marinades. Keep in mind that the seasoning may not penetrate the meat as deeply since it’s frozen. Consider using a marinade injector to infuse flavor into the steak before cooking.

3. Adjust the cooking time: When cooking frozen flank steak, it’s crucial to increase the cooking time to allow for thorough cooking. Depending on the thickness of the steak, you may need to add an additional 5-7 minutes per side to the cooking time mentioned earlier.

4. Monitor the internal temperature: While cooking frozen flank steak, it’s important to ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to accurately measure the temperature.

5. Rest, slice, and serve: After the cooking time is complete, remove the flank steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Once rested, slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot.

By adjusting the cooking time and closely monitoring the internal temperature, you can successfully cook a frozen flank steak in an air fryer, turning a last-minute meal into a delicious and satisfying dish.

Adjusting Air Fryer Temperature For Cooking Flank Steak

The air fryer’s temperature plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect cook on your flank steak. While the recommended temperature for cooking flank steak in an air fryer is around 400°F (200°C), there are a few adjustments you can make depending on your preference:

1. Higher temperature: If you prefer a more well-done steak with a crispier exterior, you can increase the cooking temperature to 425°F (220°C) or even 450°F (230°C). Keep in mind that increasing the temperature may require adjusting the cooking time slightly as well.

2. Lower temperature: For a more moderate doneness level and a juicier interior, you can decrease the cooking temperature to 375°F (190°C). This lower temperature allows for slower cooking, ensuring the steak remains tender and flavorful.

3. Temperature variations based on steak thickness: Thicker flank steaks may require a slightly lower temperature to allow for more even cooking. Decrease the temperature by about 25°F (15°C) for each extra 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of thickness beyond the average flank steak thickness, which is usually around 1 inch (2.5 cm).

By adjusting the air fryer temperature according to your desired doneness and the thickness of the flank steak, you can customize the cooking process to achieve the perfect result every time.

Adjusting Air Fryer Cook Time For Cooking Flank Steak

The cooking time for flank steak in an air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines and adjustments you can make:

1. Thinner flank steak: If your flank steak is on the thinner side, around 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick, reduce the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes per side. Thinner cuts cook faster, so keep a close eye on the steak to prevent overcooking.

2. Thicker flank steak: For thicker cuts of flank steak, around 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) thick, increase the cooking time to 10-12 minutes per side. Thicker cuts require more time to cook through while still maintaining a juicy interior.

3. Cooking time adjustments: If you prefer a rarer steak, reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes per side. Conversely, if you prefer a more well-done steak, increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes per side. Remember to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

4. Remember the resting time: After the cooking time is complete, remove the flank steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period is crucial for the steak to retain its juices and become more tender.

By making adjustments to the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness level, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak that suits your taste.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking flank steak in an air fryer, you can experiment with different techniques to achieve varying results. Here are a few techniques to try:

1. Reverse sear: To achieve a beautiful crust on your flank steak, you can use the reverse sear technique. Start by cooking the steak at a lower temperature, around 325°F (160°C), until it reaches an internal temperature of about 10-15°F (6-8°C) below the desired doneness. Then, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side to sear the exterior.

2. Marinating: Marinating the flank steak before cooking can enhance its flavors and tenderize the meat. You can experiment with various marinades, such as teriyaki, chimichurri, or a simple garlic and herb marinade. Soak the steak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop before air frying.

3. Basting: Basting the flank steak with melted butter or a flavorful sauce during the cooking process can add moisture and enhance the taste. Open the air fryer basket carefully and baste the steak with a silicone brush every few minutes to ensure even distribution of the basting liquid.

4. Seasoning crust: Create a delicious seasoning crust by brushing the flank steak with oil or melted butter before seasoning it with your desired spices. This helps the spices adhere to the surface of the steak, intensifying the flavors.

By experimenting with different cooking techniques, you can elevate the flavors and textures of your air-fried flank steak, making each bite a memorable experience.

Cooking flank steak in an air fryer provides a quick and convenient way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly cooked flank steak with a tender interior and a crispy exterior. Remember to adjust the air fryer temperature and cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking techniques and seasonings to customize the flavor profile of your flank steak. With the air fryer as your culinary companion, you’re sure to impress your friends and family with a delectable flank steak every time.

Undercooking

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook our favorite dishes, and one such dish is flank steak. Flank steak is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, but cooking it to perfection can be a challenge. Thankfully, the air fryer provides a convenient and efficient way to achieve a juicy and flavorful flank steak.

Undercooking flank steak can result in a tough and chewy texture, which is far from the desired tenderness. To avoid this, it is crucial to understand the optimal cooking time and temperature. Generally, flank steak should be cooked at a high temperature to sear the surface and lock in the juices. However, every air fryer is different, so it is essential to pay attention to the cooking instructions specific to your air fryer model.

To prevent undercooking, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature before cooking the flank steak. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and thoroughly. Additionally, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should read around 130°F (54°C), while medium should be around 140°F (60°C). Remember that the flank steak will continue to cook slightly even after removing it from the air fryer, so it is advisable to remove it from the air fryer a few degrees below your desired level of doneness.

Overcooking

Overcooking flank steak can lead to a dry and tough result. To avoid this, it is crucial to monitor the cooking time closely and avoid leaving the flank steak in the air fryer for too long. Overcooking can occur when the steak is left in the air fryer for an extended period or at too high a temperature.

To prevent overcooking, follow the recommended cooking time provided in your air fryer’s instructions or recipe. Additionally, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak regularly. As mentioned earlier, the desired internal temperature for medium-rare is around 130°F (54°C), and for medium, it is around 140°F (60°C). Removing the flank steak from the air fryer a few degrees below your desired level of doneness can help prevent overcooking.

Checking For Doneness Of Flank Steak

Checking the doneness of the flank steak is essential to ensure it is cooked to your desired level. A meat thermometer is an invaluable tool for this purpose. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone or the fat. This will provide an accurate reading of the internal temperature. As mentioned earlier, aim for around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and 140°F (60°C) for medium.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can use the touch test to check for doneness. Simply press the steak with your index finger. If it feels soft and yielding, it is likely rare. If it feels slightly firm but still has some give, it is medium-rare. If it feels firmer, it is medium to medium-well. Remember that the touch test is not as precise as using a meat thermometer, so it is advisable to invest in one for more accurate results.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with careful attention to cooking times and temperatures, there may be instances where your flank steak doesn’t turn out as expected. However, there are ways to salvage a slightly overcooked or undercooked steak.

If you accidentally overcooked your flank steak, don’t fret. You can still make it more enjoyable by marinating it or slicing it thin for stir-fry purposes. A flavorful marinade can help add moisture and flavor to an overcooked steak. Slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain and incorporating it in a stir-fry dish can also help tenderize it and provide added flavor.

In the case of an undercooked flank steak, you can return it to the air fryer for additional cooking. This method is best for flank steaks that have been slightly undercooked and are still relatively close to the desired level of doneness. Place the steak back in the air fryer and cook it for a few more minutes at the recommended temperature until it reaches your desired internal temperature.

Tips For Cooking Flank Steak In An Air Fryer

1. Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the flank steak prior to cooking can enhance its flavor and tenderness. Consider using a mixture of oil, vinegar, soy sauce, herbs, and spices to marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help infuse the meat with delicious flavors and also tenderize it.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the cooking temperature is evenly distributed. This helps in achieving a consistent and thoroughly cooked flank steak. Follow your air fryer’s instructions for preheating time and temperature.

3. Season Liberally: Season the flank steak generously with salt and pepper, or your choice of spices and herbs, before placing it in the air fryer. This will enhance the flavor of the steak and create a delicious crust.

4. Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the flank steak halfway through the cooking time ensures that both sides are evenly seared. This helps in achieving a consistent and flavorful result.

5. Rest Before Slicing: After removing the flank steak from the air fryer, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

6. Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the flank steak, be sure to cut against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers. Cutting against the grain helps break up the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.

Conclusion

Cooking flank steak in an air fryer is an excellent way to achieve a flavorful and tender result. By following the recommended cooking times and temperatures, checking for doneness using a meat thermometer, and implementing the tips mentioned, you can create a mouthwatering flank steak dish. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to discover your favorite flavor combinations. With a little practice and attention to detail, you can become a pro at cooking flank steak in an air fryer and wow your family and friends with delicious meals.

FAQS

What Temperature Should I Cook Flank Steak At In An Air Fryer?

The recommended temperature for cooking flank steak in an air fryer is 400°F.

How Long Should I Cook Flank Steak In An Air Fryer?

The approximate cooking time for flank steak in an air fryer is 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.

Can I Marinate The Flank Steak Before Cooking It In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can marinate the flank steak for added flavor before cooking it in an air fryer. It is recommended to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Do I Need To Flip The Flank Steak While It’s Cooking In The Air Fryer?

Yes, it is recommended to flip the flank steak halfway through the cooking time in order to ensure even cooking on both sides.

How Do I Know When The Flank Steak Is Done Cooking In The Air Fryer?

The best way to determine if the flank steak is cooked to your desired doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F, for medium it should be around 140°F, and for well-done it should be around 150°F. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.