Olivia Carter
If you’re a steak lover, then cooking a perfect fillet steak is a skill you’ll want to master. And what better way to cook it than in an air fryer? This versatile kitchen appliance can give you a juicy and tender fillet steak with a perfectly seared crust.
But how exactly do you cook fillet steak in an air fryer? It’s simpler than you might think. All you need is a good piece of fillet steak, some seasoning, and an air fryer. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering steak ready to enjoy in no time.
First, you’ll want to season your fillet steak. Generously coat both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Next, preheat your air fryer to around 200°C. Once preheated, place the seasoned fillet steak in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space around the steak for optimal air circulation. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness. If you prefer your steak medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 57°C.
Once your fillet steak reaches the desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and flavorful steak.
And that’s it! With just a few simple steps, you can cook a delicious fillet steak in your air fryer. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a steak dinner, this method will deliver a perfect steak every time. So, fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering fillet steak!
Preparing Your Fillet Steak
Before cooking your fillet steak in the air fryer, you’ll need to prepare it properly to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps:
1. Choose the Right Cut
The quality of your fillet steak will greatly impact the final result. Look for a well-marbled piece of meat with a bright red color. Avoid steaks with excessive fat or any signs of discoloration.
2. Season the Steak
Season the fillet steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile. Massage the seasonings into the meat, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Let it Rest
Allow the seasoned fillet steak to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly and reach the desired temperature throughout.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
While the steak is resting, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
5. Lightly Oil the Steak
Lightly brush the fillet steak with oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil. This will help prevent sticking and promote browning during the cooking process.
6. Preheat the Air Fryer Basket
If your air fryer has a removable basket, place it in the preheated air fryer for a few minutes. This will help ensure that the steak gets a nice sear on the bottom.
Now that your fillet steak is properly prepared, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures for the desired level of doneness.
Choosing the Right Cut
When it comes to cooking a fillet steak in the air fryer, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Here are some popular cuts to consider:
- Tenderloin: This is the most tender and expensive cut of beef. It is lean and comes from the short loin, making it perfect for cooking in the air fryer as it requires less cooking time.
- Ribeye: The ribeye is known for its marbling, which gives it a juicy and flavorful taste. It is a bit more fatty than the tenderloin but still suitable for cooking in the air fryer.
- New York strip: Also known as striploin, this cut comes from the short loin and offers a good combination of tenderness and flavor. It has less fat compared to ribeye but still delivers a delicious result when cooked in the air fryer.
- Sirloin: The sirloin is a versatile cut that can be lean or moderately fatty, depending on the specific cut. It is flavorful and suitable for air frying, especially when you want a balance between tenderness and richness.
Regardless of the cut you choose, make sure it is at least 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking in the air fryer. Also, look for cuts with visible marbling, as it enhances the flavor and juiciness of the steak.
Seasoning the Fillet Steak
Before air frying your fillet steak, it’s important to season it well. This will infuse the meat with flavor and enhance its taste. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- Remove the fillet steak from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Be generous with the seasoning, as it will create a delicious crust.
- If desired, you can also add additional herbs and spices to the steak. Some popular choices include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or even a steak seasoning blend.
- Gently press the seasoning into the steak to ensure it sticks.
- Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors to penetrate the meat.
By properly seasoning your fillet steak, you’ll be able to enjoy a tender and flavorful piece of meat that will be a hit at any meal. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and experiment with different flavor combinations!
Cooking Your Fillet Steak
Preparing and cooking the perfect fillet steak in the air fryer requires attention to detail and precision. Follow these simple steps to achieve a deliciously tender and juicy steak:
1. Preheat the air fryer: Before you start cooking, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature. This will ensure even cooking and optimal results.
2. Season the steak: While the air fryer is preheating, take your fillet steak and season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or rosemary, for extra flavor.
3. Place the steak in the air fryer: Carefully place the seasoned fillet steak into the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket as this can interfere with the cooking process.
4. Set the cooking temperature and time: Adjust the temperature and cooking time according to your air fryer’s instructions and your desired level of doneness. As a general guide, a 1-inch thick fillet steak typically requires 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for medium-rare.
5. Flip halfway through: Halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip the steak using tongs. This will help to ensure even cooking and a nicely seared exterior.
6. Check for doneness: As the cooking time approaches the recommended range, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C). Adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed.
7. Rest and serve: Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and starting temperature of your fillet steak, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. It’s always recommended to consult the user manual for your air fryer and use a meat thermometer to ensure optimal results.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before cooking your fillet steak in the air fryer, it is essential to preheat the appliance. Preheating helps to ensure your steak cooks evenly and to perfection.
To preheat your air fryer, simply set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This will allow the air fryer to reach the desired cooking temperature and ensure your steak is cooked evenly on all sides.
While preheating, you can take the time to prepare your fillet steak. Season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can also let the steak come to room temperature, as this helps it to cook more evenly.
Once your air fryer is preheated and you’ve prepared your steak, you’re ready to start cooking! The preheating step is crucial for achieving a deliciously tender and flavorful fillet steak in the air fryer.
Cooking Time and Temperature
When cooking fillet steak in the air fryer, it is important to get the cooking time and temperature right to achieve the perfect doneness.
The recommended cooking temperature for fillet steak in the air fryer is 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to sear the steak quickly, creating a deliciously crisp crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
The cooking time will depend on how well-done you like your steak. For a rare or medium-rare steak, cook it for about 6-8 minutes on each side. For a medium steak, cook it for about 8-10 minutes on each side. And for a well-done steak, cook it for about 12-14 minutes on each side.
Remember to preheat your air fryer before cooking the steak. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and retains its juices.
It is also essential to let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the specific model of the air fryer. It is always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak reaches the desired level of doneness.
Now that you know the proper cooking time and temperature, you can confidently cook a delicious fillet steak in your air fryer. Enjoy!
Serving and Enjoying Your Fillet Steak
Once your fillet steak is perfectly cooked in the air fryer, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Follow these steps to make the most of your meal:
1. Rest the steak: After removing the steak from the air fryer, let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
2. Slice it right: Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers and make each bite more tender.
3. Plate it up: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving plate. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness.
4. Serve with sides: Fillet steak goes well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
5. Pair with a sauce: Enhance the flavor of your fillet steak by serving it with a delicious sauce. Classic options include peppercorn sauce, mushroom sauce, or a rich red wine reduction.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking the steak. The air fryer cooks the steak quickly, so it’s important not to leave it in for too long.
- Allow for variations in thickness: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steak. Thicker cuts will require a longer cooking time, while thinner cuts will cook faster.
- Experiment with seasonings: While simple salt and pepper can enhance the natural flavor of the fillet steak, don’t be afraid to try different seasonings or marinades to add unique flavors.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to serve and enjoy a perfectly cooked fillet steak from your air fryer. Bon appétit!
Questions and Answers
What temperature should I set my air fryer to cook fillet steak?
You should set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to cook fillet steak.
How long does it take to cook fillet steak in an air fryer?
The cooking time for fillet steak in an air fryer depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steak. As a general guide, for a 1-inch thick steak, you can cook it for 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, 10-12 minutes for medium, and 12-14 minutes for medium-well. Remember to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time.
Should I preheat the air fryer before cooking fillet steak?
Yes, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking fillet steak. This helps to ensure even cooking and a nice sear on the steak.
What seasonings can I use to season fillet steak for air frying?
You can season fillet steak for air frying with a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your preferred flavor profile.
Can I cook frozen fillet steak in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen fillet steak in an air fryer. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. It is generally recommended to thaw the steak first for more even cooking, but if you’re in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and cook at a slightly lower temperature.
