Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Learning how to cook steak in an air fryer takes about 10 to 15 minutes of active work and gives you a well-seared exterior with a juicy center. The method is simple: season a steak about 1 inch thick, preheat the basket, cook at a high temperature, and rest the meat before slicing. Once you have the timing down, you can repeat it for weeknight dinners without firing up a grill or heavy skillet.

Choose and Prep the Right Cut

Thinner cuts cook through before they brown, so aim for steaks between 3/4 inch and 1 1/4 inches thick. Strip, ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon all work well. Pull the steak from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before cooking so it cooks more evenly. Pat it completely dry with paper towels, because surface moisture steams the meat instead of browning it. If you want a background on a specific cut, the guide Rib Eye in Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Juicy, Seared Steak covers marbling and thickness in more detail.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Top 10 Things to Cook in an Air Fryers: Expert Picks for Every Kitchen.

Season and Preheat

Coat both sides with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of meat, plus black pepper, garlic powder, or a light coating of oil to help the seasoning stick. Salt needs only a few minutes to start working, so you can season while the basket preheats. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 to 5 minutes. A hot basket is what creates the crust, so don’t skip this step.

Cook the Steak to Your Preferred Doneness

Place the steak in a single layer with space around it, leaving room for air to circulate. Cook at 400°F using these approximate times for a 1-inch steak:

  • Rare: 6 to 7 minutes, internal temperature about 125°F
  • Medium-rare: 8 to 9 minutes, internal temperature about 135°F
  • Medium: 10 to 11 minutes, internal temperature about 145°F
  • Medium-well: 12 to 13 minutes, internal temperature about 150°F

Flip the steak halfway through. Thicker cuts need more time, so add 2 to 3 minutes for a steak closer to 1 1/2 inches. An instant-read thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness, since air fryer models vary in power.

Rest and Slice

Move the steak to a cutting board and rest it for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting lets the juices redistribute, so they stay in the meat instead of running onto the board. Slice against the grain into strips about 1/2 inch wide for tender bites.

Common Mistakes

  • Crowding the basket, which causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Skipping the preheat, which leads to a gray, under-browned exterior.
  • Cooking straight from the refrigerator, which increases the time the center takes to reach temperature.
  • Slicing immediately, which lets juices escape and dries out the meat.
  • Relying on time alone. Thickness and starting temperature change the result, so check with a thermometer.
  • Instant-read meat thermometer: Takes the guesswork out of doneness, and it’s the single most useful tool for steak in any appliance. View on Amazon
  • Air fryer parchment liners: Make cleanup easier when marinades or seasoned fats drip into the basket, though keep them weighted or perforated so they don’t block airflow. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need to flip the steak in the air fryer?

Yes, flip it once about halfway through cooking. This gives both sides even browning and helps the center cook evenly.

Can I cook a frozen steak in the air fryer?

It’s not recommended. Thaw the steak in the refrigerator first, since frozen meat often browns unevenly and may not reach a safe, even doneness.

How do I know when the steak is done without a thermometer?

Press the center: rare feels soft, medium-rare has some give, and medium feels firm. A thermometer is more accurate, so use one whenever you can.

Conclusion

With a hot preheated basket, dry seasoned meat, and a thermometer, you can cook a steak in the air fryer with consistent results. Start with a 1-inch cut at 400°F, rest it before slicing, and adjust the times for your preferred doneness. Once you’re comfortable, explore other proteins in Air Fryer Tuna Steak Recipes: 6 Easy Methods for Juicy Results.

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Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our home cooking with appliances guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.