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# Air Fryer Steak Medium Rare Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a perfect medium rare steak can be a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s easier than ever. The air fryer, known for its convenience and ability to produce crispy, delicious meals, is an excellent appliance for cooking steak. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to cook a juicy, tender medium rare steak using your air fryer. Plus, we’ll touch on how the air fryer can be used for other dishes like **air fryer chicken** to maximize your kitchen efficiency.

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## Why Cook Steak in an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. When it comes to steak, the air fryer offers several benefits:

– **Speed:** Air fryers cook steak faster than traditional methods.
– **Even Cooking:** The hot circulating air cooks the steak evenly.
– **Less Mess:** No need for splattering oil or heating up your stove.
– **Versatility:** Besides steak, you can easily prepare other dishes like air fryer chicken, vegetables, and more.

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## What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients and tools:

– 1 thick-cut steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Olive oil or melted butter
– Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, or your favorite steak seasoning
– Air fryer
– Meat thermometer (recommended for precision)

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## Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer Steak Medium Rare

### Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear and crust. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt and pepper. If you like, add garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.

### Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak starts cooking immediately and helps develop a nice crust.

### Step 3: Place the Steak in the Air Fryer Basket

Put the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. If your air fryer is small, cook one steak at a time.

### Step 4: Cook the Steak

Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time depends on the thickness of your steak and your air fryer model.

### Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. For medium rare, aim for 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.

### Step 6: Rest the Steak

Once cooked, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.

### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your steak against the grain and serve with your favorite sides. Whether it’s a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy **air fryer chicken**, your meal is ready to enjoy.

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## Tips for the Best Air Fryer Steak

### Choosing the Right Cut

For air frying, thicker cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work best. Thin cuts may cook too quickly and become tough.

### Seasoning

Keep it simple with salt and pepper or experiment with steak rubs and marinades. Remember to season just before cooking to avoid drawing out moisture.

### Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air fryers cook by circulating hot air, so make sure there’s enough space around the steak for even cooking.

### Use a Meat Thermometer

This is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.

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## How to Cook Air Fryer Chicken Alongside Your Steak

If you’re wondering how to make a complete meal using your air fryer, try cooking **air fryer chicken** as a side or main dish. Chicken breasts or thighs cook well in the air fryer and can be seasoned to complement your steak.

### Quick Air Fryer Chicken Recipe

– Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
– Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
– Cook chicken for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
– Serve alongside your perfectly cooked air fryer steak for a protein-packed meal.

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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

### Can I cook frozen steak in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen steak in an air fryer, but it will take longer. It’s best to thaw the steak first for even cooking and better texture.

### How do I know when my steak is medium rare?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Medium rare is between 130°F and 135°F (54°C to 57°C). The steak should be warm and red in the center.

### Can I cook multiple steaks at once in the air fryer?

You can, but make sure they don’t overlap. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

### How do I get a crusty exterior on my air fryer steak?

Pat the steak dry, season well, and preheat the air fryer. Adding a little oil helps with browning. Flipping halfway through also promotes even crust formation.

### Is air fryer steak healthier than pan-fried steak?

Air fryer steak uses less oil, making it a lower-fat option compared to pan-frying. It’s a great way to enjoy steak with fewer calories.

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## Conclusion

Cooking a medium rare steak in an air fryer is a quick, convenient, and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll achieve a juicy, tender steak every time. Plus, the versatility of the air fryer allows you to prepare other dishes like **air fryer chicken** alongside your steak, making meal prep easier than ever. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the air fryer is a fantastic tool to add to your kitchen arsenal.

Try this method today and savor the perfect medium rare steak with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Keyword: air fryer chicken