I’ve always been a fan of steakhouse-style dinners, but let’s be honest—firing up the grill or heating a cast-iron skillet isn’t always the most convenient option. That’s why I turned to my air fryer to see if it could handle a thick, juicy sirloin. To my surprise, the results were incredible: a perfectly seared crust on the outside, tender and juicy inside, and all done without the smoke and hassle of the stovetop.
Cooking steak in the air fryer has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight tricks. It’s not only quick and easy, but it also gives me consistent results every time. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing a special dinner, this method makes sirloin steak feel like a gourmet meal—without the restaurant price tag or complicated prep.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sirloin Steak: The star of the show, sirloin is a lean yet flavorful cut of beef that cooks beautifully in the air fryer. It’s tender enough for a special dinner but still affordable compared to other premium cuts like ribeye or filet. Aim for steaks that are about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick for the best results.
Olive Oil: This adds a touch of richness to the steak and helps the seasoning stick. It also promotes that gorgeous caramelized crust as the air fryer circulates hot air around the meat.
Garlic Powder: A subtle but essential flavor booster. Garlic powder adds depth without overwhelming the natural taste of the beef, giving each bite a savory punch.
Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, this seasoning enhances the steak’s flavor profile. It balances out the richness of the beef with a mellow sweetness.
Paprika: This spice adds a hint of smokiness and color to the steak. It’s a small detail that makes the crust more appealing and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple but critical. Salt enhances the natural flavor of the beef, while freshly cracked black pepper provides a gentle heat that rounds out the seasoning mix.
Butter: Adding a pat of butter at the end makes the steak rich, velvety, and steakhouse-worthy. It melts over the warm steak, creating a glossy finish and an indulgent bite.
Ingredients List
- 2 sirloin steaks (about 1–1 ½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (for finishing)
How to Make Air Fryer Sirloin Steak
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. A hot air fryer ensures your steak gets that beautiful sear on the outside.
Step 2: Season the Steaks
Pat your steaks dry with paper towels, then rub them with olive oil. Mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on both sides of the steak, pressing lightly so it adheres.
Step 3: Air Fry the Steaks
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on your preferred doneness.
Step 4: Rest and Finish with Butter
Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness. Top each steak with a pat of butter, letting it melt slowly into the meat before serving.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for the juiciest results.
- Always preheat your air fryer—it makes a big difference in searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; air circulation is key for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for precision. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
- Letting the steak rest before slicing ensures every bite is juicy.
- Experiment with finishing flavors—garlic butter, herb butter, or even a squeeze of lemon over the top.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon also work wonderfully. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Do I need to marinate the steak?
Not necessarily. Sirloin has plenty of natural flavor, and the simple seasoning mix works great. But if you love marinades, just be sure to pat the steak dry before air frying.
Can I cook frozen sirloin in the air fryer?
You can, but the results aren’t as juicy as when cooking thawed steak. If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to avoid drying it out.
What can I serve with sirloin steak?
Classic sides like roasted potatoes, garlic butter asparagus, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully with this dish.