Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the beef roast from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat Dry: Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps in achieving a nice crust.
Step 2: Season the Beef
- Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, and ground mustard.
- Rub with Olive Oil: Rub the beef roast all over with olive oil. This helps the seasoning adhere and creates a nice crust.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle the seasoning mix all over the beef roast, pressing it into the meat to ensure it sticks.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
- Place in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned beef roast in the air fryer basket.
- Air Fry: Cook the roast at 360°F (180°C).
- For medium-rare: Cook for approximately 25 minutes.
- For medium: Cook for approximately 30 minutes.
- For medium-well: Cook for approximately 35 minutes.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
- Adjust Time if Needed: If the roast hasn’t reached your desired doneness, continue to air fry in 5-minute increments, checking the temperature each time.
Step 5: Rest the Beef
- Remove and Rest: Once the roast reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Slice Against the Grain: After resting, slice the roast beef thinly against the grain. This ensures tender slices.
- Serve: Serve the roast beef with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Roast Beef
- Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches the desired doneness.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time. It’s crucial for juicy and tender meat.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique flavor.
Variations to Try
- Herb-Crusted: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to the seasoning mix for a fresh herb crust.
- Garlic Butter: Rub the roast with a mixture of minced garlic and softened butter before seasoning for a richer flavor.
- Smoky: Add smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix for a smoky twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Gravy: Make a simple gravy using the pan drippings and serve it over the sliced beef.
- With Potatoes: Pair the roast beef with roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or even a potato gratin.
- With Veggies: Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
Why This Recipe Works
Using an air fryer for roast beef significantly reduces cooking time while still delivering a perfectly cooked roast with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The consistent heat circulation in the air fryer ensures even cooking and a beautiful crust.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Roast Beef is an excellent way to enjoy a classic roast with less hassle and time. The flavors are rich, the meat is tender, and the preparation is straightforward. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this air fryer method!