Imagine a dinner scene where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and the smell of a juicy steak dances around the kitchen. You’ve got your air fryer steak at the center of it all, perfectly cooked. But wait! What will you pair with it?
The options are endless. For a vibrant touch, I love serving my air fryer steak with a lightly dressed arugula salad, fresh and peppery, to complement the meat’s richness. Grilled vegetables or crispy roasted potatoes can also work wonders. Want an Italian twist? A side of creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic makes for a heavenly combination.
A Taste of Simplicity: Why This Recipe is Ideal for You
Hello, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a straightforward way to make steak at home, you’ve landed in the right place. The air fryer isn’t just a trendy gadget; it’s a culinary game-changer.
This “Super Easy Air Fryer Steak” recipe helps you achieve that mouthwatering goodness without the hassle. Picture this: juicy, tender steak cooked to your liking, with a flavorful crust. The air fryer seals in the moisture while creating a lovely exterior.
I’ve tried countless methods of cooking steak, and let me tell you, this method stands out. No more standing over a grill in the hot sun or wrestling with pans on the stovetop. Here, you’ll find an approach that simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. All you need are a few ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
I used to think steak was a luxury reserved for special occasions, but this recipe demystifies it. The ingredients are budget-friendly and easily accessible. Let’s dive into the heart and soul of what makes this dish truly special.

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Ingredients List
Here are the main components for this easy air fryer steak:
- 4 boneless sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick, 1½ pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder: A must-have for that rich, garlicky flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon mild smoked paprika: It adds a gentle smokiness without being overwhelming.
- 1 teaspoon flaky kosher salt: It enhances flavors without being too harsh.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: It provides a touch of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb brings added depth to the dish.
How to Make “Super Easy Air Fryer Steak”
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started. Follow these steps for a steak that bursts with flavor!
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Begin by removing your steaks from the fridge. Let them rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. While they are resting, pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the surface is vital; the dry meat will sear better.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, flaky kosher salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and thyme. I like to use my fingers to combine everything well. Once you’ve mixed your spices, rub them all over the steaks. Be generous! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Set Up Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is the magic number for crisping without drying out. At this point, make sure your basket is clean. A well-maintained air fryer is essential for great results!
Step 4: Cook the Steaks
Once the air fryer is hot, place the seasoned steaks in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they have a bit of space between them for optimal air circulation. Close the fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare. Feel free to adjust the time if you like your steak more done. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
When the timer beeps, carefully remove the steaks from the air fryer and place them on a cutting board. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil, allowing them to rest for 5-7 minutes. This is crucial for redistributing the juices, ensuring a tender bite.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice your steaks against the grain. This helps in keeping the meat tender, and it also makes for a beautiful presentation. Serve your air fryer steak with your chosen sides, and enjoy!

Nutrition Information

Recipe Notes
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that bring our air fryer steak to life:
- Boneless Sirloin Steaks: This cut is lean yet flavorful. It’s perfect for quick cooking methods like air frying.
- Granulated Garlic Powder: A pantry staple that packs a punch. It’s convenient and ensures even distribution of flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice adds warmth and a hint of smokiness, giving the steak a nice depth.
- Kosher Salt: Flaky and light, this salt helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat without overwhelming it.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper is essential. It brightens the dish and adds complexity.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is for those who like a little heat. It can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
- Dried Thyme: This herb complements the richness of steak beautifully, bringing an earthy note.
Recipe Variations
Let’s get creative! Here are a few tweaks you can make:
- Different Cuts of Meat: You can easily swap out sirloin for ribeye or flank steak. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
- Flavor Variations: Try using a spice rub or marinade of your choice. Teriyaki or lemon herb marinades could be delightful.
- Add Garlic: For an even stronger garlic flavor, add fresh minced garlic during the seasoning.
- Use Different Herbs: Replace thyme with rosemary or oregano for a completely different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Making a delicious air fryer steak is easier than you think! With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your home. This recipe shines not only for its taste but also for its versatility. Whether you want to keep things classic or explore new flavors, it bears your personal touch.
So, as you gather around the dinner table, let your super easy air fryer steak take center stage. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds and thirds, and you’ll be left with nothing but satisfied smiles. Happy cooking!
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Air Fryer Steak – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Description
Imagine a dinner scene where friends gather, laughter fills the air, and the smell of a juicy steak dances around the kitchen. You've got your air fryer steak at the center of it all, perfectly cooked. But wait! What will you pair with it?
The options are endless. For a vibrant touch, I love serving my air fryer steak with a lightly dressed arugula salad, fresh and peppery, to complement the meat's richness. Grilled vegetables or crispy roasted potatoes can also work wonders. Want an Italian twist? A side of creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic makes for a heavenly combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started. Follow these steps for a steak that bursts with flavor!
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
-
Begin by removing your steaks from the fridge. Let them rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. While they are resting, pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the surface is vital; the dry meat will sear better.
Step 2: Season Generously
-
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, flaky kosher salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and thyme. I like to use my fingers to combine everything well. Once you’ve mixed your spices, rub them all over the steaks. Be generous! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Set Up Your Air Fryer
-
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is the magic number for crisping without drying out. At this point, make sure your basket is clean. A well-maintained air fryer is essential for great results!
Step 4: Cook the Steaks
-
Once the air fryer is hot, place the seasoned steaks in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they have a bit of space between them for optimal air circulation. Close the fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare. Feel free to adjust the time if you like your steak more done. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
-
When the timer beeps, carefully remove the steaks from the air fryer and place them on a cutting board. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil, allowing them to rest for 5-7 minutes. This is crucial for redistributing the juices, ensuring a tender bite.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
-
Finally, slice your steaks against the grain. This helps in keeping the meat tender, and it also makes for a beautiful presentation. Serve your air fryer steak with your chosen sides, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1129kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 66.2g102%
- Saturated Fat 26.7g134%
- Cholesterol 428mg143%
- Sodium 316mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
- Protein 123g246%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that bring our air fryer steak to life:
- Boneless Sirloin Steaks: This cut is lean yet flavorful. It's perfect for quick cooking methods like air frying.
- Granulated Garlic Powder: A pantry staple that packs a punch. It’s convenient and ensures even distribution of flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice adds warmth and a hint of smokiness, giving the steak a nice depth.
- Kosher Salt: Flaky and light, this salt helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat without overwhelming it.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper is essential. It brightens the dish and adds complexity.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is for those who like a little heat. It can be adjusted based on your spice preference.
Dried Thyme: This herb complements the richness of steak beautifully, bringing an earthy note.