Step 1: Preparing the Steak
- Season the Steaks: Start by patting the steaks dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each steak. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks.
- Rest: Let the seasoned steaks rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and the steaks to cook more evenly.
Step 2: Preparing the Veggies
- Season the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the baby carrots, broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, and red onion wedges. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat all the vegetables evenly.
Step 3: Prepping the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures the steak and veggies cook evenly and get a nice, crispy exterior.
- Arrange the Steak and Veggies: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the steaks in the basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the steaks in a single layer.
Step 4: Cooking the Steak and Veggies
- Initial Cook: Cook the steak and veggies at 400°F for 10 minutes. After the first 10 minutes, flip the steaks and stir the vegetables to ensure even cooking.
- Finish Cooking: Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:
- For medium-rare: Remove the steak when the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
- For medium: Remove the steak at 140°F (60°C).
- For medium-well: Remove the steak at 150°F (66°C).
- Butter Finish: Once the steaks reach your desired doneness, place a small pat of butter on each steak and let it melt. This adds a rich flavor and helps keep the steak juicy.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Rest the Steak: Transfer the steaks to a plate and cover with aluminum foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful steak.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the steaks with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs if desired. Serve the steak alongside the roasted veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Steak and Veggies
- Even Cooking: Ensure the steaks and vegetables are in a single layer and not overcrowded in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the steak and veggies well. The high heat of the air fryer can sometimes mute flavors, so generous seasoning ensures a tasty result.
- Resting Time: Always let the steak rest after cooking. This step is crucial for retaining the juices and achieving a tender steak.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these complementary sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are a perfect match for a juicy steak.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp and refreshing Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the rich steak and roasted veggies.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread adds a delightful touch to your meal.
Final Thoughts
We hope this detailed guide has not only provided you with a fantastic recipe but also inspired you to enjoy the process of cooking. Preparing a meal is an art, and every step, from seasoning to serving, is part of that art. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Steak and Veggies, and remember, the best meals are those made with love and care. Happy cooking!