Steak Air Fryer Cooking Time
Air fryer steak: 10–14 minutes at 400°F (200°C). 1-inch thick ribeye, sirloin or strip.
Flip once at the halfway mark.
Cook to internal temperature, not to the clock — thickness matters more than any other variable.
Timer
10:00
How to cook Steak in an air fryer
- Room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, then pat completely dry.
- Salt generously. Surface moisture is the enemy of a crust.
- Rest 5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute.
Cook by doneness
| Doneness | Internal temp | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F / 52°C | 9–10 min |
| Medium rare | 135°F / 57°C | 10–12 min |
| Medium | 145°F / 63°C | 12–13 min |
| Medium well | 150°F / 66°C | 13–14 min |
| Well done | 160°F / 71°C | 14–16 min |
These times are compiled from manufacturer guidance and standard references, not measured in our kitchen. Safe internal temperatures are USDA-sourced. How we know what we know.
Common questions
How long do you air fry Steak?
Steak takes 10–14 minutes at 400°F (200°C) in an air fryer. Flip once at the halfway mark. Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can you get a good crust on steak in an air fryer?
A decent one, but not a true cast-iron sear. Maximise it by drying the surface thoroughly, salting well, and using the highest temperature your machine allows.
Do you need to preheat an air fryer for steak?
Yes — this is one of the few foods where it genuinely matters. A cold basket greys the outside before any browning starts. Preheat 3–5 minutes.
Converting your own recipe
If you have an oven recipe for Steak and want to work it out yourself, the rule is to drop the temperature by 25°F and cut the time by 20%. The oven to air fryer converter does it for you.