Frozen Steak in Air Fryer: Easy, Juicy, and Delicious!

Why Cook Frozen Steak in an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer to cook frozen steak is a game-changer. Here’s why:

1. No Thawing Needed – You don’t have to wait hours for your steak to defrost. Just take it straight from the freezer to the air fryer.
2. Fast and Convenient – Air frying cooks steak quickly and evenly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Crispy and Juicy – The high-speed air circulation in an air fryer creates a great sear while locking in juices.
4. Healthier Option – Cooking in an air fryer requires less oil than pan-frying.

Now, let’s dive into how to cook a frozen steak in an air fryer for the best results.

What You’ll Need

Before getting started, gather the following ingredients and tools:

Ingredients

• 1 or 2 frozen steaks (ribeye, sirloin, New York strip, or filet mignon)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Tools

• Air fryer
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Small bowl for seasonings

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Steak in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This will help the steak cook evenly and give it a good sear.

Step 2: Lightly Oil and Season the Steak

Since frozen steak won’t hold seasonings well, lightly brush it with olive oil or melted butter. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and let it cook for about 5 minutes to slightly thaw.

After this, remove the steak from the air fryer and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. At this stage, you can also add your favorite steak rub.

Step 3: Air Fry the Steak

Place the seasoned steak back in the air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time varies based on thickness:

1. 1-inch thick steak: 12-14 minutes for medium-rare, 14-16 minutes for medium, 16-18 minutes for well-done
2. 1.5-inch thick steak: 14-16 minutes for medium-rare, 16-18 minutes for medium, 18-20 minutes for well-done
3. Use tongs to flip the steak at the halfway mark to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Check the Internal Temperature

For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer:

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium-Well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
• Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making the steak more flavorful.Slice and serve with your favorite sides!

If you want to take your steak to the next level, here are some additional seasoning ideas:

Classic Steakhouse Blend

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed rosemary
• Spicy Cajun Rub
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Garlic Butter Finish
• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Brush this over the steak after cooking for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Air Fryer Steak

A perfectly cooked air fryer steak deserves equally delicious side dishes. Whether you’re craving crispy potatoes, fresh greens, or creamy comfort food, here are the best sides to serve with your steak.

1. Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges

   Season potato wedges with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway for even crispiness.

2. Garlic Butter Asparagus

   Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 7-8 minutes, then drizzle with melted garlic butter.

3. Loaded Mashed Potatoes

   Mash boiled potatoes with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits for a rich and creamy side.

4. Creamed Spinach

   Sauté spinach with garlic, then mix with heavy cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg for a steakhouse classic.

5. Caesar Salad

   Toss crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and crunchy croutons for a refreshing contrast to your steak.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

   Halve Brussels sprouts, toss with olive oil, salt, and balsamic glaze, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.

7. Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions

   Cook mushrooms and onions in butter and Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful topping.

8. Mac and Cheese

   A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese adds the perfect comfort food touch to your meal.

Pair your air fryer steak with any of these sides for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner!

Cook frozen steak in air fryer quickly and efficiently, delivering juicy, flavorful results. To get the perfect steak, follow these essential tips:

1. Use a Meat Thermometer

The best way to ensure perfect doneness is by checking the internal temperature:

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium-Well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
• Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)

2. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating at 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice crust on the steak.

3. Season After Slight Thawing

Frozen steak won’t hold seasonings well at first. Cook it for 5 minutes, then remove and season before continuing.

4. Lightly Oil the Steak

A light olive oil or melted butter coating helps crisp the outside and enhances flavor.

5. Flip Halfway Through Cooking

Turning the steak ensures both sides get an even sear and cook at the same rate.

6. Avoid Overcrowding

Cook one or two steaks simultaneously to allow proper air circulation for an even cook.

7. Rest the Steak Before Slicing

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and make it more tender.

8. Experiment with Seasonings

Try different rubs like:

1. Classic Steakhouse: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
2. Spicy Cajun: Smoked paprika, cayenne, Cajun seasoning
3. Garlic Butter Finish: Melted butter with minced garlic and parsley

9. Add a Finishing Touch

For extra flavor, brush with garlic butter or compound butter before serving.

10. Pair with Great Sides

Serve with air fryer potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Following these tips, you’ll get a perfectly cooked, juicy steak every time—straight from your air fryer!

About One Stop Halal

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