If you’re a fan of juicy, tender steaks with a crispy sear on the outside, then this Air Fryer New York Strip Steak recipe is about to become your new go-to! I love using the air fryer for steak because it makes cooking so much easier and faster while still delivering that perfect, restaurant-quality finish. The best part? It requires minimal prep time and cleanup—leaving you with a meal that’s sure to impress!
Cooking a New York strip steak in the air fryer is not only quick but also gives the steak an irresistible texture. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that doesn’t require a lot of fancy ingredients or techniques, just high-quality steak and a few seasonings to bring out the natural flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve a steakhouse-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To make the perfect Air Fryer New York Strip Steak, you’ll need just a few ingredients, each playing a vital role in bringing out the best flavor in your steak. Let’s take a look:
New York Strip Steak: This is the star of the dish! Known for its tenderness and rich flavor, the New York strip steak has just the right amount of fat marbling to create a juicy, succulent piece of meat. Choose a thick cut (about 1-1.5 inches) for the best result in the air fryer.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the steak crisp up in the air fryer while also adding a touch of richness. It helps the seasoning adhere better and creates a beautiful sear.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a savory depth of flavor to the steak without overpowering its natural taste. It adds a hint of aromatic warmth that’s irresistible.
Onion Powder: Just like garlic powder, onion powder enhances the flavor profile of the steak, adding a slightly sweet and savory touch.
Salt: The most important seasoning for any steak! Salt enhances the natural flavors of the meat, helping to bring out the juiciness and tenderness. Be sure to use a generous amount for the perfect seasoning balance.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the steak a nice peppery kick. It’s essential for balancing the richness of the meat and adding some heat.
Ingredients List
- 2 New York strip steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
How to Make Air Fryer New York Strip Steak
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak cooks evenly and gets that perfect sear.
Step 2: Season the Steaks
While the air fryer is preheating, pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps the steak sear better. Brush both sides of each steak with olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure the seasoning covers both sides evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Place the seasoned steaks into the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space between the steaks to allow the hot air to circulate properly. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. For medium-rare, aim for 10 minutes; for medium, cook a little longer.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Once the steaks are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak extra tender and juicy.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Choose a high-quality steak: The better the cut, the better the result. Look for marbling, which indicates tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: If you’re cooking multiple steaks, make sure they don’t touch each other. Air needs to circulate around the meat to cook it properly.
- Adjust cooking time for your preferred doneness: The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Check with a meat thermometer for accuracy—125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
- Rest the meat: Resting the steak is crucial for ensuring it’s juicy. If you skip this step, the juices will run out when you cut into it.
- Experiment with seasonings: While garlic and onion powder are classic, feel free to try other spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary for a personalized touch.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen New York strip steak in the air fryer?
Yes! If you have a frozen New York strip steak, you can cook it in the air fryer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s best to season it after it’s thawed, but if you’re in a rush, you can season it before cooking.
How do I make sure my steak is cooked to the right level of doneness?
The best way to check doneness is with a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135°F, for medium, it should be 145°F, and for well-done, aim for 160°F.
What should I serve with this Air Fryer New York Strip Steak?
This steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a classic steakhouse experience, try serving it with sautéed mushrooms or a baked potato.
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, other cuts like ribeye or filet mignon can also be cooked in the air fryer. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak.