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

The air fryer has become a popular kitchen appliance for its ability to cook food quickly and with minimal added fat. One of the many foods that can be cooked in an air fryer is steak. Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer allows you to achieve a perfectly juicy and tender result without needing to fire up the grill or oven. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of choosing, preparing, and cooking a medium steak in an air fryer for a delicious meal.

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

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer requires precision to achieve the perfect level of doneness. The general rule of thumb is to cook the steak for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through the cooking time.

Choosing Medium Steak

When choosing a steak to cook in the air fryer, it’s important to select a cut that is well-marbled and at least 1 inch thick. Marbling refers to the streaks of fat that run through the meat, which helps keep the steak moist and flavorful during cooking. Popular cuts for medium steak include ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip.

Preparing Medium Steak

Before cooking the medium steak in the air fryer, it’s crucial to properly prepare the meat. Start by taking the steak out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking throughout the steak.

Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. For added flavor, you can also use a mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasoning into the steak and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Air Fryer Temperature For Cooking Medium Steak

The air fryer temperature plays a crucial role in cooking a medium steak to perfection. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to achieve the ideal level of doneness. Preheating the air fryer is also recommended to ensure that the steak cooks evenly and develops a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

Air Fryer Cooking Time For Cooking Medium Steak

Once the air fryer has reached the desired temperature, carefully place the seasoned medium steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook the steak for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip it over using tongs and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the specific model of the air fryer. For a thicker cut of steak, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

For a more precise method of determining doneness, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium steak, the internal temperature should reach around 135-145°F (57-63°C). Once the steak has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender steak.

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal. By choosing the right cut of steak, properly preparing the meat, and cooking it at the correct temperature and time, you can achieve the perfect medium doneness every time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the air fryer offers a hassle-free method for preparing a mouthwatering steak. With this comprehensive guide, you can confidently cook a medium steak in an air fryer and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to savor a tender and succulent medium steak that rivals any restaurant-quality dish.

How To Cook Medium Steak In An Air Fryer

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer might not be the traditional method, but it can be a convenient and efficient way to achieve a juicy and flavorful result. Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to cook food evenly and quickly, and steak is no exception.

1. Preparation: Start by preheating your air fryer to the recommended temperature of 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, take your medium steak out of the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature. This step is important as it ensures that the steak cooks more evenly.

2. Seasoning: Season your steak according to your preference. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add various spices and herbs to enhance the flavor. Rub the seasoning all over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated.

3. Placing the steak: Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned medium steak into the air fryer basket. Make sure there is enough space around the steak to allow air circulation, which helps in achieving a crispy exterior.

4. Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness. For a medium steak, a general guideline is to cook it for 6-8 minutes per side. However, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to determine the internal temperature accurately.

5. Checking the temperature: After the initial cooking time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium steak, the ideal internal temperature is around 145°F (63°C). If the steak has not reached the desired temperature, continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes per side and recheck the temperature.

6. Resting the steak: Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak.

7. Slicing and serving: After the resting period, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it immediately, and if desired, add any additional sauces or toppings to enhance the flavors further.

Cooking Time For Frozen Medium Steak

If you have a frozen medium steak that you want to cook in the air fryer, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Here’s a general guideline for cooking a frozen medium steak in an air fryer:

1. Preparation: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) just as you would for a fresh steak. Remember to allow the frozen steak to thaw partially before seasoning.

2. Partial thawing: To ensure even cooking, it is advisable to allow the frozen steak to thaw partially. Remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent the exterior from burning before the interior is cooked.

3. Seasoning and cooking: Season the partially thawed medium steak according to your preference, and follow the same steps outlined in the previous section. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time to accommodate for the frozen state of the steak.

4. Adjusted cooking time: For a frozen medium steak, the approximate cooking time is 10-12 minutes per side. Again, it’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the steak using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.

5. Resting and serving: Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes after reaching the desired internal temperature, and then slice and serve as per the previous instructions.

Adjusting Air Fryer Temperature For Cooking Medium Steak

Different air fryer models may have slightly varied temperature settings, and some may require adjustments for cooking a medium steak precisely. Here’s how you can adjust the air fryer temperature for cooking a medium steak:

1. Understanding your air fryer: Familiarize yourself with the temperature settings and options on your specific air fryer model. Some air fryers have pre-programmed settings for steak, which can be a helpful starting point.

2. Temperature adjustment: If your air fryer does not have a specific steak setting, you can manually adjust the temperature. For a medium steak, a general guideline is to set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows for searing the exterior while keeping the interior juicy and medium-rare.

3. Monitoring the cooking process: While cooking the steak, keep an eye on the exterior appearance and internal temperature. If you notice that the steak is browning too quickly or the exterior is becoming overly crispy, you can reduce the temperature by 25°F (10°C) to slow down the cooking process.

4. Testing and adjusting: The first time you cook a medium steak in your air fryer, it’s advisable to check the internal temperature at regular intervals and make notes for future reference. If the steak consistently turns out overcooked or undercooked, you can fine-tune the temperature accordingly.

Adjusting Air Fryer Cook Time For Cooking Medium Steak

The cook time for a medium steak can also be adjusted based on personal preference and the thickness of the steak. Here are some guidelines for adjusting the cook time:

1. Using a meat thermometer: To achieve the perfect medium steak, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature accurately. This ensures that you do not overcook or undercook the steak.

2. Thickness adjustment: Thicker steaks will naturally require a longer cook time, while thinner steaks will cook more quickly. As a general rule, for a medium steak, you can add an additional 1-2 minutes per side for each 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) of thickness beyond the standard 1-inch (2.54 cm) thickness.

3. Cook time variability: The exact cook time will vary depending on the particular air fryer and the steak’s thickness. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and check the steak’s internal temperature at regular intervals to prevent overcooking.

4. Resting period compensation: Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly during the resting period, so take this into account when determining the desired internal temperature. Aim to remove the steak from the air fryer when the internal temperature is a few degrees below your target temperature, as it will rise slightly as the steak rests.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve the best results when cooking a medium steak in an air fryer, you can also employ some additional cooking techniques. Here are a few techniques to consider:

1. Reverse searing: Reverse searing is a technique where you initially cook the steak at a lower temperature and then finish it with a high-heat sear. This method helps to achieve a more even and controlled cook throughout the steak. To reverse sear a medium steak in an air fryer, start by cooking the steak at a lower temperature, around 275°F (135°C), until it reaches an internal temperature of about 10-15°F (5-8°C) below your target medium temperature. Then, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) for a quick sear on each side to achieve a crispy exterior.

2. Marinating: Marinating the steak before cooking can help enhance its flavor and tenderness. You can use a simple marinade with ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, and then remove the excess marinade before air frying.

3. Basting: Basting the steak with melted butter, olive oil, or a marinade during the cooking process can add extra moisture and enhance the steak’s flavor. Every few minutes, open the air fryer and use a basting brush to brush the steak with the chosen basting liquid.

4. Adding herbs and spices: Apart from seasoning the steak with salt and pepper, consider adding various herbs and spices to elevate the flavor profile. Common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, or any other desired spices. Sprinkle them over the steak before cooking, ensuring even distribution.

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer can yield excellent results, providing you with a juicy and flavorful steak every time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve the desired level of doneness while maintaining the steak’s tenderness and moisture. Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the thickness of the steak and ensure that it reaches the recommended internal temperature. With a little practice and experimentation, you can master the art of cooking a perfect medium steak in your air fryer. So, fire up your air fryer and enjoy a delicious steak without the hassle of traditional cooking methods.

Undercooking

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer can yield delicious and juicy results. The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to mimic the crispiness of deep frying, but with far less oil. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, understanding the nuances of cooking a medium steak in an air fryer is key to achieving the perfect doneness.

Undercooking a steak can result in a tough and chewy texture, leaving you unsatisfied with your meal. To avoid this, it is important to ensure that the steak reaches the desired internal temperature. For a medium steak, the recommended internal temperature is around 135°F (57°C).

Overcooking

Overcooking a steak can lead to a dry and tough piece of meat, taking away from its natural tenderness and flavor. It is crucial to prevent overcooking by monitoring the doneness of the steak. A medium steak typically has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which results in a warm pink center.

Checking For Doneness Of Medium Steak

To check the doneness of a medium steak, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak, making sure it is not touching the bone or fat. The internal temperature should read around 135°F (57°C) for a medium steak. If you prefer a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C), while a medium-well steak would have an internal temperature of about 150°F (66°C).

Another method to check for doneness is the touch test. Gently press the center of the steak with your index finger. A medium steak should feel slightly firm with some give. If it feels too soft, it may still be rare, while if it feels very firm, it may be overcooked. However, keep in mind that the touch test may not be as accurate as using a meat thermometer.

When Things Go Wrong

If you accidentally overcook your steak in the air fryer, there are a few ways to salvage it. You can try slicing it thinly and using it in sandwiches or wraps, where the meat will be surrounded by other flavors and textures. Another option is to chop the overcooked steak into small pieces and use it in stir-fries or salads, where it can be mixed with other ingredients. While it may not be the perfectly juicy medium steak you were aiming for, these methods can still provide a tasty dish.

Tips For Cooking Medium Steak In An Air Fryer

1. Choosing the right cut: Opt for tender cuts of steak such as ribeye, striploin, or tenderloin for the best results. These cuts have a good amount of marbling, which helps to keep the steak moist and flavorful during cooking.

2. Preheat the air fryer: It is important to preheat your air fryer before cooking the steak. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly and achieves a nice sear on the outside. Preheating usually takes around 5 minutes at the desired cooking temperature.

3. Seasoning: Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

4. Oil or marinade: Lightly coat the steak with a small amount of oil or your favorite marinade. This helps to enhance the flavors and prevent the steak from sticking to the air fryer basket or tray. Be careful not to add too much oil, as it can cause excess smoke during cooking.

5. Placement in the air fryer: Place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket or on the tray, ensuring that there is enough space around it for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer, as this can affect the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked steak.

6. Cooking time and temperature: Set the air fryer to the desired temperature, which is typically around 400°F (200°C) for medium steak. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak, but as a general guide, cook a 1-inch thick steak for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for thicker or thinner steaks.

7. Resting time: After cooking, allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps to ensure a moist and tender steak. Tent the steak with aluminum foil during resting to retain the heat.

8. Serving: Serve the medium steak with your favorite sides and enjoy the juicy and flavorful result of your air frying efforts. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a pat of butter to add an extra touch of flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking a medium steak in an air fryer requires attention to detail and precise cooking techniques. By understanding the importance of internal temperature, checking for doneness, and following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium steak that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Experiment with different cuts, seasonings, and marinades to create your own signature dish. With practice and experience, you’ll be able to master the art of cooking a medium steak in an air fryer, impressing your friends and family with restaurant-quality results.

FAQS

How Do I Cook A Medium Steak In An Air Fryer?

To cook a medium steak in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the steak in the basket and air fry for 8 minutes for a 1-inch thick steak, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium doneness.

Can I Use Frozen Steak In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can use frozen steak in an air fryer. However, it will require a longer cooking time. It is recommended to defrost the steak first for more even cooking and better results.

Should I Season My Steak Before Air Frying?

Yes, it is recommended to season your steak before cooking in the air fryer. This will help enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the outside of the steak. Use your favorite seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Can I Cook Other Meats In The Air Fryer Besides Steak?

Yes, you can cook a variety of meats in an air fryer including chicken, pork, and fish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times according to the specific meat and thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked to the desired doneness.

Do I Need To Flip The Steak While Cooking In The Air Fryer?

It is recommended to flip the steak halfway through cooking in the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and a nice crust on both sides. However, if your air fryer has a rotisserie function, you may not need to flip the steak. Refer to your specific air fryer’s instructions for the best results.