Cooking steak is one of the most popular culinary skills to master. It requires attention to detail and skill to get it just right. However, with today’s busy lifestyle, one may not have the time to cook a steak the traditional way. That’s where the air fryer comes in.
In this article, we will explore the question, “How long does it take to cook a steak medium well in an air fryer?” We will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook your steak to perfection in an air fryer. Whether you’re an amateur cook or a pro, we’re confident that this guide will help you become an expert in air frying your steak. So, let’s get started and find out how to cook the perfect medium well steak in an air fryer.
Preparing Your Air Fryer for Cooking a Steak
The first and most crucial step in cooking a steak in an air fryer is to prepare your air fryer. Firstly, you should preheat your air fryer for several minutes to ensure it reaches the desired temperature before placing your steak inside. This will help you attain the perfect texture and flavor of the steak without overcooking or undercooking it.
The second step is to ensure that the air fryer basket is clean before placing the steak inside. To do this, you should remove any leftover crumbs or debris from the basket. This will help prevent any unwanted smoke or burning smell from the excess oil or fat that remains in the basket. Additionally, placing a small amount of oil at the bottom of the basket will help add a crisp touch to the steak. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the basket as this may lead to uneven cooking of the steak.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak for Air Fryer Cooking
Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial when cooking it in an air fryer. Not all cuts will cook evenly or taste great when air-fried, so it’s essential to choose the right one. When looking for the perfect cut, you should consider the thickness, marbling, and tenderness of the meat.
Some of the best cuts for air fryer cooking are sirloin, ribeye, and filet mignon. These cuts of meat are perfect for air frying because of their thickness and marbling, making them ideal for a medium or medium-well steak. On the other hand, leaner cuts like flank steak or round steak might not work as well with an air fryer as they tend to dry out quickly and result in an uneven cook. By selecting the right cut of steak, you are ensuring that you will have a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked steak each time.
Seasoning Your Steak Before Cooking
Before cooking your steak in the air fryer, it is important to properly season it to enhance its flavor. The simplest and most basic seasoning for steak is salt and pepper. You can sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the steak. Let the seasoning sit on the steak for about 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
If you want to infuse additional flavors into your steak, you can use a marinade. You can use your favorite marinade or make a homemade one using soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and olive oil. Just mix all the ingredients together, pour the marinade over the steak, and let it sit in the fridge for several hours or overnight. This will allow the steak to absorb the flavors of the marinade, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy steak. Remember to pat the steak dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the airfryer.
Cooking Time and Temperature for Medium-Well Steak
Cooking a perfect medium-well steak in an air fryer requires precise temperature and timing. To achieve the desired level of doneness, preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. While the air fryer is heating, season the steak with your preferred spices or rubs.
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the steak in the basket or on the rack. A 1-inch thick steak will take around 10-12 minutes to cook to medium-well when air fried at 400°F. Remember to flip the steak once halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the steak reaches 150°F for a perfect medium-well steak. Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute evenly.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Medium-Well Steak in an Air Fryer
Achieving the perfect medium-well steak in an air fryer may seem daunting, but with the right tips, it can be a breeze. Firstly, make sure to preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature before placing the steak inside. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and avoids ending up too tough or chewy.
Another tip for achieving the perfect medium-well steak in an air fryer is to brush it with a coat of olive oil. This process will help to lock in the steak’s flavors and keep it from sticking to the fryer. Additionally, regular flipping of the steak also ensures that it cooks evenly on both sides. Lastly, using a meat thermometer will help you know when your steak is ready, as the temperature will read 145F for medium-well steak. Following these tips, you can achieve a perfect medium-well steak in your air fryer every time.
Resting and Serving Your Steak
Resting your steak after cooking is an essential step to ensure that the meat stays juicy and tender. Once you remove the steak from the air fryer, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes on a plate before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and delicious.
When serving your steak, you can garnish it with some herbs or spices to add extra flavor. You can also slice it against the grain to make it tender and easier to chew. Pair it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad. A medium-well done steak in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, and with these tips, you can impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Steak in an Air Fryer
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Steak in an Air Fryer:
1. Can I cook frozen steak in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen steak in an air fryer. However, it is recommended that you thaw the steak before cooking for even cooking and better results.
2. How do I know when my steak is cooked to medium well in an air fryer?
The easiest and safest way to check the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature for medium-well steak should be around 150-155 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, you can also use the touch test method – push the center of the steak with your finger, and if it feels slightly firm and springs back, it is likely cooked to medium-well.
The Conclusion
Cooking a moist and flavorful steak medium well in the air fryer is fairly simple and easy. However, the amount of time and temperature required may vary depending on the thickness and type of steak. Whether you prefer ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, it’s important to experiment until you find the perfect cooking time and temperature that works for you.
By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can now confidently cook a steak that is tender, juicy, and cooked to your desired degree of doneness. The air fryer offers several benefits, such as a shorter cooking time, a healthier alternative, and more consistent cooking results. Overall, using an air fryer to cook steaks is a great way to enjoy this delicious and high-protein meal without the hassle of a traditional oven or grill.