I’ll admit it—I used to believe the only way to cook a juicy New York strip steak was in a blazing-hot cast iron skillet or on a grill. But once I tried making it in the air fryer, my perspective completely changed. It comes out with a golden-brown crust, perfectly tender inside, and it’s hands down one of the easiest ways to cook steak at home. No fussing with splattering oil or firing up the grill—just pure, delicious results in minutes.
Cooking steak in the air fryer also means less mess and more consistency. I love that I can set the time, flip once, and know I’m going to get a restaurant-worthy steak without stress. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive way to cook dinner, this recipe is going to be your new weeknight hero.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
New York Strip Steak: This cut is known for its balance of tenderness and bold beefy flavor. It’s leaner than a ribeye but still has enough marbling to keep it juicy. The air fryer works wonders in locking in those juices while crisping up the edges beautifully.
Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil helps the seasoning stick and gives the steak a gorgeous sear. It also prevents the meat from drying out as it cooks in the hot circulating air of the fryer.
Salt: A good sprinkle of salt enhances the natural flavor of the beef. I recommend using kosher salt or sea salt for even seasoning that won’t clump.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat and complements the steak’s richness. It’s simple, but it makes all the difference in flavor.
Garlic Powder: This brings a touch of savory depth without overpowering the steak. Garlic powder pairs beautifully with beef and elevates the seasoning with minimal effort.
Butter (optional): Adding a pat of butter on top after cooking gives the steak a luscious finish. It melts into the warm meat and creates a steakhouse-level experience right at home.
Ingredients List
- 2 New York strip steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for finishing)
How to Make Air Fryer New York Strip Steak
Step 1: Prep the Steaks
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is key for a great crust. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle the steaks evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Don’t be shy here—seasoning well ensures bold flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. A hot air fryer gives the steak that beautiful sear right away.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
Place the seasoned steaks in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy).
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. For an extra treat, top with a pat of butter before serving.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use a meat thermometer for best results: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well.
- Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for more even results.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—air circulation is what gives you that perfect crust.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of your steak.
- If you prefer extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top of the butter when finishing.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon also work beautifully in the air fryer—just adjust the cook time depending on thickness.
Do I need to marinate the steak first?
Not at all. The air fryer method works best with a simple seasoning. But if you love marinades, just be sure to pat the steak dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent the steak from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and let it rest after air frying. Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out.
Can I cook frozen steak in the air fryer?
Yes, but keep in mind it will need more time, and the sear won’t be as perfect as with thawed steak. It’s best to cook thawed for ideal results.