Steaks (such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), at room temperature
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil or your choice of cooking oil
Garlic powder (optional)
Thyme or rosemary (optional, for additional flavor)
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the steak will start cooking immediately on a hot surface.
Prepare the Steaks:
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a better sear.
Brush each steak lightly with olive oil. This not only helps to transfer heat but also aids in creating a delicious crust.
Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with garlic powder and lay a sprig of thyme or rosemary on top for extra flavor.
Cook the Steak:
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time depending on the thickness of your steak and desired doneness: a few minutes less for rare, a few minutes more for medium or well-done.
Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak has reached the desired internal temperature: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, 155°F (68°C) for medium-well, and 165°F (74°C) for well-done.
Rest the Steak:
Once cooked to your liking, let the steak rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy steak.
Serve:
Serve your air fryer steak with your favorite sides, such as a salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
