The air fryer has become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. It is known for its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, and it can also be used to cook delicious flank steak. If you’re wondering how long to cook flank steak in an air fryer, we’ve got you covered.
Preparing the Flank Steak
Before cooking the flank steak in the air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. Start by marinating the steak in your favorite marinade. This will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. You can marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Seasoning the Flank Steak
Once the flank steak is marinated, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help to ensure a crispy exterior when cooking in the air fryer. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can use a simple salt and pepper seasoning, or get creative with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before cooking the flank steak, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature. This is typically around 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Preheating the air fryer will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and reduces the overall cooking time.
Cooking Time for Flank Steak
The cooking time for flank steak in an air fryer will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 1-inch thick flank steak for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, or 14-16 minutes for well-done.
Checking the Internal Temperature
To ensure that your flank steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit (57-60 degrees Celsius). For medium, aim for 145-150 degrees Fahrenheit (63-66 degrees Celsius), and for well-done, the internal temperature should be around 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
Resting and Slicing the Flank Steak
Once the flank steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you know how long to cook flank steak in an air fryer, it’s time to enjoy your delicious meal. Flank steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also use the cooked flank steak to make tacos, sandwiches, or stir-fries. Get creative and enjoy your flavorful and juicy flank steak!