Cooking a New York strip steak in an air fryer is a game-changer for steak lovers. It’s quick, easy, and delivers a juicy, tender steak with a beautifully seared crust, all without the hassle of firing up a grill or dealing with stovetop splatter.
Basic Air Fryer NY Strip Steak Recipe
This simple method for cooking New York strip steaks in the air fryer turns out beautiful steak without standing at the grill in the heat, or firing up the broiler indoors. About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature. Pat steaks dry with paper towels, and sprinkle seasoning salt and Montreal Steak Seasoning on both sides. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C), according to manufacturer’s instructions. When the air fryer is fully preheated, spray both sides of steaks with olive oil cooking spray. Place steaks in the air fryer and cook about 10 minutes for medium rare, turning halfway through. Check the temperature of the meat before removing from the air fryer. For medium-rare, an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). Tent with foil, about 10 minutes. Serve warm.
Cooking Times for Different Doneness Levels
This air fryer NY strip steak is delicious and easy to make in under 15 minutes! Perfectly seared, instructions are given for the perfect steak – whether you prefer medium rare or well done! Pat steaks as dry as possible. Brush the steaks lightly with avocado oil and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Preheat the air fryer to 420 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the NY strip to the air fryer basket crisper plate and air fry for about 7 minutes. Flip and cook another 3-5 minutes depending on desired doneness. If your air fryer does not reach 420 degrees Fahrenheit, don’t worry! You can cook these at 400 degrees for closer to 8 minutes, then flip and cook another 4-6 minutes. These were the times I found worked best in testing with my basket air fryer and 1″ thick New York strip steak:
- Medium Rare (130-135°F): 10 minutes total
- Medium (140-145°F): 11-12 minutes total
- Medium Well (150°F): 13 minutes total
Simple Seasoning and Quick Prep
Rub steak with oil on both sides, and sprinkle steak on both sides with House Seasoning. Place steaks in air fryer basket, set temperature to 400 degrees, and cook for 6 minutes on each side for medium rare. Serve warm with your favorite topping or steak sauce.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Steak
Indulge in the ultimate steak experience! New York strip in the air fryer cooks to absolute perfection for juicy, flavorful steak that’s incredibly easy to make. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Rub steak with oil on both sides, and season evenly with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Place steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 5-6 minutes on each side for medium rare. Your ideal cook time is going to depend on the size of your strip steak as well as your desired level of doneness. For a 1 inch thick steak that’s about 8 ounces, 5-6 minutes on each side, or 10-12 minutes total, is just right! If you have an Instant Read Thermometer, you want the internal temperature to be 135 degrees F. Prefer your steak more done? Just add a few minutes to the cooking time! You want the steak to reach 140 degrees F for medium doneness, 150 degrees F for medium-well, or 155 degrees F for well done. Allow the steaks to come to room temperature before placing in the air fryer for even cooking and better flavor. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel to promote browning and searing. Season the steaks generously with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
Enhancing with Compound Butter
This Air fryer New York strip steak cooks in 15 minutes or less, and clean-up is easy. Season the steak with the salt and pepper and transfer it to the basket of Emeril’s Air Fryer and set at 400° F for 10 to 12 minutes for medium-rare, or until the desired temperature is reached. Half-way through the cook time, turn the steak so it cooks evenly. When done, allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes. Prepare the sauce while the steak is resting: In a saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shallots and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 1 minute. Add the red wine and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a medium and stir in the beef bouillon. Simmer for 2 minutes longer, or until the bouillon is incorporated. Add the heavy cream and cook for 1 minute longer. Remove from the heat and keep warm. Slice the steak and serve with the Red Wine Sauce.
Frozen Steak in the Air Fryer
Yes, you can cook frozen steak in the air fryer. Just make sure to add a few minutes to the cooking time. You’ll want to do a “thawing” round in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Once thawed, remove and season, and then proceed with cooking. Instead of 15 minutes, it might take up to 22 minutes for a frozen steak to cook well done. You do not need to thaw frozen steak before air frying.
Key Tips for Success
- Don’t Overload the Basket: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may only be able to fit one or two steaks in the basket. It’ll take a little more time to cook steaks for a family this way, but it’s crucial not to let pieces of steak touch. If they don’t have air circulation around all sides, the steaks may cook unevenly and not crisp along the outside.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Some people like to skip the step of preheating their air fryers, but it’s a pivotal step not to overlook when cooking steak.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection is by using a meat thermometer. I highly recommend investing in one if you don’t already have one.
- Flip Halfway Through: You’ll get better results flipping your air-fried steak because the heating element and fan that circulates the hot air throughout your air fryer basket, come from the top of your air fryer. So if you don’t flip your steak, you’ll have uneven searing.
- Rest the Steak: Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and enhance the tenderness.
FAQs
What is the best temperature to cook NY strip steak in an air fryer?
Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to 400°F for a good sear and even cooking. Some suggest 420°F for a crispier crust, but 400°F is widely effective across different air fryer models.
How do I know when my steak is done?
Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness. Target internal temperatures are:
- Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium Well: 150°F
- Well Done: 160°F
Always check the thickest part of the steak and let it rest to reach the final temperature.
Can I cook a frozen NY strip steak in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook a frozen steak. Add a 3-5 minute “thawing” round at 400°F, then season and cook for an additional 12-17 minutes, depending on doneness. Total time may reach 22 minutes for well-done.
Do I need to flip the steak during cooking?
Flipping the steak halfway through ensures even searing and cooking, as the heat in most air fryers comes from the top. This step prevents one side from being overcooked.
What seasonings work best for NY strip steak?
Simple seasonings like kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder enhance the steak’s natural flavor. You can also use steak seasoning blends like Montreal or add a pat of garlic herb butter after cooking for extra richness.
How long should I let the steak rest?
Rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking, loosely tented with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and flavorful.
Conclusion
Cooking a New York strip steak in an air fryer is a fast, mess-free way to enjoy a steakhouse-quality meal at home. With cooking times ranging from 10-15 minutes at 400°F, depending on your preferred doneness, and a few simple seasonings, you can achieve a perfectly seared, juicy steak. Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer, flip halfway, and let the steak rest for the best results. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready in no time!