Air fryer strip steak has become my go-to for a restaurant-quality meal right at home, and I can’t wait to share this with you! I remember the first time I tried making strip steak in the air fryer; I was skeptical, but the results were incredible – a perfectly cooked, juicy steak with minimal effort. This air fryer sirloin steak recipe delivers that amazing char and tender interior you crave, making it ideal for any night of the week. Get ready for your new favorite way to cook steak!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Strip Steak
This air fryer strip steak is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Incredible flavor and a perfectly seared crust
- Ready in under 30 minutes for a speedy meal
- A healthier way to enjoy steak compared to frying
- Achieve a juicy air fryer strip steak with minimal fuss
- This easy air fryer strip steak recipe is foolproof
- Budget-friendly when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home
- Impress your family or guests with this simple yet elegant dish
- It’s an easy air fryer strip steak that tastes amazing
Ingredients for Air Fryer Strip Steak
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating the best air fryer strip steak. For this recipe, you’ll need just a few simple items:
- 2 (6-8 ounce) strip steaks – choose steaks about 1-inch thick for best results
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil – its high smoke point is perfect for the air fryer
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for enhancing the steak’s natural flavor
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground pepper adds a nice bite
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – for an extra layer of savory goodness
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – adds color and a hint of smoky depth
- 1 tablespoon steak rub (optional) – a pre-made or homemade air fryer strip steak seasoning can elevate the flavor
The simplicity of these ingredients allows the natural flavor of the steak to shine through, especially when combined with the perfect air fryer strip steak seasoning.
How to Make Strip Steak in Air Fryer
Making a fantastic steak in your air fryer is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a delicious meal every time. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get that perfect cook!
- Step 1: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it run for about 5 minutes to ensure it’s hot enough for searing. This initial preheat is crucial for achieving that beautiful crust.
- Step 2: While the air fryer heats up, prepare your steaks. Pat the strip steaks completely dry with paper towels. This step is key for a good sear. Then, brush both sides generously with avocado oil.
- Step 3: Now for the seasoning! Sprinkle the steaks evenly with salt, black pepper, and any of your optional spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or your favorite steak rub. This is where your air fryer strip steak seasoning really makes a difference.
- Step 4: Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Proper spacing is important for even cooking, so cook in batches if necessary. This is part of the strip steak air fryer cooking instructions that ensures a great result.
- Step 5: Cook for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare. The exact air fryer steak cooking temperature is 400°F, but how long to air fry strip steak can vary slightly depending on thickness. For medium, aim for 12-14 minutes, and for well-done, 14-16 minutes. Flipping them halfway through helps ensure even cooking.
- Step 6: Once cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove the steaks from the air fryer. Let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Step 7: Slice your perfectly cooked air fryer strip steak against the grain. This makes the steak incredibly tender and enjoyable. Serve immediately and savor the delicious results of your easy air fryer steak cooking!

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Strip Steak
Elevate your steak game with these simple tricks for the ultimate air fryer strip steak experience:
- Always start with dry steaks; moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking and a great crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! It’s the most reliable way to guarantee your steak is cooked to perfection.
- Letting the steak rest after cooking is non-negotiable for a juicy, tender result.
What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Strip Steak?
The secret to a truly perfect air fryer strip steak lies in the combination of high heat, a dry surface for searing, and allowing the steak to rest. This ensures maximum juiciness and a beautiful crust. For more on achieving the perfect sear, check out these steak cooking techniques.
Can I make Air Fryer Strip Steak ahead of time?
While best cooked fresh, you can prep steaks for air fryer strip steak meal prep. Season them, brush with oil, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is a great tip for busy cooks, similar to how you might prepare ingredients for breakfast bowls.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Strip Steak?
Avoid under-seasoning or overcooking. Patting the steaks dry is crucial, and don’t skip the resting period – it makes a huge difference in tenderness and juiciness. Understanding the science behind cooking, like the Maillard reaction, can also help prevent common mistakes.
Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Strip Steak
Once you’ve mastered how to cook strip steak in air fryer, you’ll want to pair it with delicious sides. This steak is incredibly versatile! For a classic steakhouse feel, serve your air fryer New York strip steak alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh, crisp salad with a vinaigrette makes a wonderful complement. You can also create a fantastic surf and turf experience by adding some air-fried shrimp or scallops to your plate. For a hearty side, consider cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Nutrition Facts for Air Fryer Strip Steak
This recipe offers a satisfying steak experience with reasonable nutritional values. Enjoying a delicious steak doesn’t have to be complicated, and this air fryer strip steak makes it easy to get a great meal on the table.
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 0g (negligible from seasoning)
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific cut of steak and added seasonings.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Strip Steak
Leftovers happen, and this air fryer strip steak stores beautifully for future meals. Once your delicious steak has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Properly stored, your cooked steak will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions of your air fryer strip steak for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it extra well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is just as simple. For a quick refresh, place slices of the steak in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain some of that lovely crispness. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat. For a sweet treat to follow your meal, consider trying our homemade ice cream recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Strip Steak
What internal temperature should my Air Fryer Strip Steak reach?
For a perfect medium-rare air fryer strip steak, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). If you prefer medium, cook it to 135-140°F (57-60°C). Always use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to get an accurate reading. This is key to avoiding under or overcooking. You can find reliable meat thermometers from various retailers.
Can I use a different cut of steak for this Air Fryer Strip Steak recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. When using an air fryer steak recipe sirloin, adjust the cooking time slightly as sirloin can cook a bit faster. The principle of patting dry, seasoning well, and cooking at high heat remains the same for a delicious outcome. For other dinner ideas, explore our dinner recipes.
My steak came out dry, what did I do wrong with my Air Fryer Strip Steak?
A dry steak usually means it was either overcooked or didn’t rest long enough. Be sure to check the internal temperature often, especially if your air fryer runs hotter. Also, don’t skip the resting period! Letting the steak sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful air fryer strip steak. For more tips on cooking, you might find resources on steak cooking helpful.
Is Air Fryer Strip Steak healthier?
Compared to pan-frying in a lot of oil, cooking steak in the air fryer can be healthier because it uses significantly less added fat. The circulating hot air cooks the steak efficiently, creating a delicious crust without needing excessive oil. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic steak dinner with more health-conscious preparation. For other healthy meal ideas, check out our power bowl recipes.
Variations of Air Fryer Strip Steak You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer strip steak, don’t be afraid to get creative! Experimenting with different flavors and techniques can lead to exciting new meals. For a zesty twist, try a marinated strip steak air fryer preparation; marinate your steaks for at least 30 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey before cooking. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your steak rub or a dash of hot sauce to your marinade. For a dairy-free option that still delivers rich flavor, consider a garlic-herb butter made with olive oil or vegan butter to brush on the steak after cooking. You might also enjoy our beef and cheese chimichangas for another flavorful dinner option.
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Air Fryer Strip Steak: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 2 steaks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make juicy and flavorful Air Fryer Strip Steak in just minutes. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Strip Steaks
- 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon Steak Rub (Optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat the strip steaks dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with avocado oil and season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
- Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust time for desired doneness.
- Remove steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Slice the air fryer strip steak against the grain and serve.
Notes
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and elegance.
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg