Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending a lot of time cooking. The air fryer cooks the steak quickly while still delivering great texture and flavor.
Another reason to love this dish is its simplicity. With just a few pantry spices and a short cooking time, you can create a delicious main course without complicated techniques.
It’s also a versatile recipe that pairs well with many side dishes such as roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
round steak
olive oil
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
dried thyme
fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the round steak dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of the steak lightly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
- Check the internal temperature and cook longer if needed to reach your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice against the grain and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2–3 servings
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: about 15–17 minutes
Variations
Spicy version
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
Garlic butter steak
Top the cooked steak with a small amount of garlic butter before serving.
Herb steak
Add rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning to the spice mixture.
Marinated steak
Marinate the steak for 2–4 hours in olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and lemon juice before air frying.
Steak strips
Slice the steak into strips before cooking and use it for wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the steak in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
You can also reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals.
Cooked steak can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
FAQs
What is round steak?
Round steak is a lean cut of beef from the rear leg of the cow. It is flavorful but can be slightly firm if overcooked.
Can I marinate round steak before air frying?
Yes, marinating the steak helps tenderize it and add extra flavor.
How do I keep round steak from becoming tough?
Avoid overcooking it and allow the steak to rest before slicing.
What temperature should round steak reach?
For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C).
Do I need to flip the steak in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping halfway through cooking helps it cook evenly.
Can I cook frozen round steak in the air fryer?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and may not brown as evenly.
What sides go well with air fryer round steak?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad pair well.
Can I cook more than one steak at a time?
Yes, as long as the steaks fit in the basket without overlapping.
Why should I slice the steak against the grain?
Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers and makes the steak more tender.
Can I use other cuts of steak in the air fryer?
Yes, cuts such as sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak can also be cooked in the air fryer.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Round Steak is a simple and efficient way to prepare a flavorful beef dish in a short amount of time. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering satisfying results. Whether served with vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a hearty steak dinner at home.
Print
Air Fryer Round Steak
Air Fryer Round Steak is a quick and flavorful way to cook a lean cut of beef. The air fryer creates a nicely browned exterior while keeping the steak tender and juicy inside, making it a simple and satisfying meal for busy days.
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb round steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the round steak dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of the steak lightly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Check the internal temperature and cook longer if needed to reach your preferred doneness.
- Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice against the grain and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the steak for a few hours can help tenderize this lean cut.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak.
- Letting the steak rest before slicing helps keep the juices inside.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
