1. Prepare the Steaks:
- Let the steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Moisture on the surface can prevent them from searing properly.
2. Season the Steaks:
- Rub each steak with olive oil, ensuring all sides are coated. The oil helps the seasoning stick to the steaks and promotes a good sear.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If using, sprinkle with garlic powder and add rosemary or thyme to taste.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures a good sear and helps cook the steak evenly.
4. Cook the Steaks:
- Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- For medium-rare, cook for about 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your steaks and your preferred level of doneness. Here’s a rough guide:
- Rare: 5-6 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 7-9 minutes
- Medium: 10-12 minutes
- Well-Done: 13-15 minutes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired internal temperature: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
5. Rest the Steaks:
- Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your steak is juicy and flavorful.
6. Serve:
- Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or baked potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Steaks:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking the steaks without overcrowding the air fryer basket allows for better air circulation and more even cooking.
- Thickness Matters: The cooking times mentioned are for 1-inch thick steaks. Adjust cooking times if your steaks are thicker or thinner.
- Checking Doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for your preferred level of doneness without overcooking the steaks.
Enjoy your delicious, air-fried steaks with the satisfaction of having prepared a restaurant-quality meal right at home!