# Is There Anything More Satisfying Than a Delicious Steak to Brighten Your Day?
There are numerous methods to prepare steak, but during those times when energy and time are scarce, air fryer steak stands out as the ideal option. Even on days when you do feel energetic, the outcome from an air fryer can be remarkably enjoyable.
## Steak in an Air Fryer?
Why choose an air fryer when more traditional techniques like cast iron, reverse searing, or flame grilling exist? While these methods are fantastic, an air fryer can change your steak from raw to flawlessly cooked in less than 10 minutes, with minimal cleanup. After a long day at work, this ease can be much more attractive than scrubbing a cast iron skillet or preheating and cleaning a grill. Even for festive occasions, simplicity can enrich the experience.
## How to Achieve a Great Sear
Air frying employs a fan and high temperatures to mimic the sear obtained on a grill or cast iron pan. The secret lies in placing the steak as near to the heating element as you can. Utilizing air fryer racks can elevate the steaks, guaranteeing a desirable crust.
## Air Fryer Racks
Air fryers work well, but those that come with racks are even more effective. Racks facilitate closer proximity to the heating elements, allow for cooking several steaks at once, and avoid undesired grill marks from the air fryer basket. Ensure that any racks used fit your air fryer correctly.
## Smoke
Cooking steak in an air fryer may produce noticeable amounts of smoke, particularly at high temperatures. It’s recommended to position the air fryer under a hood fan or even take it outside to control the smoke properly.
## The Ideal Cut for Air Fryer Steak
This technique is not designed for premium cuts. For the best results, striploin or sirloin steaks approximately 1.25 inches thick are suitable. Both cuts provide tender, juicy results without being excessively chewy or tough.
## Preheating Your Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer can elevate cooking efficiency, particularly for speedy recipes like steak. While it preheats, you might add oil-coated garlic cloves to the basket for an extra flavor lift.
## Air Fryer Steak Temperatures
As a reference, steak doneness is generally gauged as follows:
– Rare: 125ºF
– Medium-rare: 135ºF
– Medium: 145ºF
– Medium-well: 155ºF
## Dry Rubs & Marinades
While steak is tasty on its own, trying out dry rubs or marinades can enhance the flavor. Choices like Cajun butter or steak Diane can bring exciting twists.
## Steak Sauces
Accompany your steak with an array of sauces, such as traditional peppercorn, mustard cream, garlic mushroom, coconut curry, or Japanese chimichurri for added richness.
## And Naturally, You Need Potatoes
No steak dinner is complete without a generous side of potatoes, which can also be cooked in the air fryer for a harmonious meal.
## Perfect Butter Basted Air Fryer Steak Recipe
### Ingredients
– 2 steaks (8-10 oz each, striploin or ribeye recommended)
– Salt and freshly ground pepper
– 2 tbsp butter (or high heat oil)
– 4 cloves garlic (unpeeled, optional)
### Instructions
1. **Preparation**: Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
2. **Preheat**: Set the air fryer to 400ºF.
3. **Cooking**: Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they are close to the heating element. Cook for about 7 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting the time for your preferred doneness.
4. **Basting**: In the final minute, add butter and garlic to the basket for flavor.
### Nutrition Facts (per 8 oz serving)
– Calories: 562
– Fat: 22.9g
– Saturated Fat: 11.2g
– Cholesterol: 235mg
– Sodium: 185mg
– Potassium: 785mg
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Protein: 82.4g
This air fryer steak recipe provides a quick and straightforward way to savor a delicious meal, making it a superb choice for any day of the week.