Air Fryer Steak: How to Season and Cook It Right
To make a great air fryer steak, pat it dry, season it well with a bold blend, and cook at 400 degrees F for about 8 to 12 minutes, flipping once. Rest it for 5 minutes before you slice.
Air fryer steak is fast, easy, and really good when you season it right. The short version: pat the steak dry, coat it with a bold rub like Dad Spice, and air fry at 400 degrees F for about 8 to 12 minutes, flipping once. Then let it rest.
Why the air fryer makes a great steak
The air fryer blows hot air around the meat. That gives you a browned crust without a lot of smoke or oil. It is a simple way to cook steak indoors, even on a busy night.
How to season air fryer steak
- Take the steak out of the fridge 30 minutes early.
- Pat it very dry with a paper towel. Dry meat browns better.
- Rub on a little oil so the seasoning sticks.
- Coat both sides with Dad Spice. Be generous.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes while the air fryer heats to 400 degrees F.
Air fryer steak time and temperature
These times are for a 1-inch steak at 400 degrees F. Flip it halfway through. The best way to know it is done is an instant-read thermometer, not the clock.
| Doneness | Internal temp | Time at 400 F |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120 to 125 F | about 7 to 8 min |
| Medium rare | 130 to 135 F | about 9 to 10 min |
| Medium | 140 to 145 F | about 11 to 12 min |
| Medium well | 150 to 155 F | about 13 to 14 min |
| Well done | 160 F and up | about 15 min or more |
Not sure which number to aim for? See our steak doneness temperature chart for the full guide.
Tips for a better air fryer steak
- Do not crowd the basket. Give the steak room so the air can move.
- Pull it about 5 degrees early. The steak keeps cooking while it rests.
- Rest it for 5 minutes before you slice. This keeps the juices in.
- Slice against the grain for a tender bite.
Ready to season your next one? Grab The Classic from the shop.
Frequently asked questions
What seasoning is best for air fryer steak?
A bold, salt-forward blend works best. Dad Spice adds smoke and citrus that give the steak a savory crust in the air fryer.
How long do you air fry a steak?
A 1-inch steak takes about 9 to 10 minutes at 400 degrees F for medium rare. Flip it halfway and check the temperature with a thermometer.
Do you flip steak in an air fryer?
Yes. Flip it once, halfway through, so both sides brown evenly.
Should you oil the steak before air frying?
A thin coat of oil helps the seasoning stick and helps the crust form. You do not need much.
Make it taste better.
Grab a bottle of The Classic and season like you mean it.
