Name: Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer
Prep time: 1 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 11 min
Ingredients: 1 sirloin steak; salt; black pepper (preferably freshly ground)

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Cooking sirloin steak in an air fryer can be done in two ways: the traditional high-temperature grilling or the reverse sear method, which we’re focusing on today.

While it might take a bit longer, the reverse sear method is straightforward and almost foolproof, ensuring delicious results every time.

Understanding the Reverse Sear Method

Let’s break down the reverse sear method. This innovative cooking technique starts by slowly “cooking” the steak at a lower temperature, then finishing it off with a quick sear at high heat. This ensures a perfectly cooked interior with a beautifully caramelized crust.

It’s akin to sous vide cooking, where the meat is first gently warmed and then seared to perfection.

How to Cook Perfect Sirloin Steak in an Air Fryer

Air frying can sometimes dry out or overcook meat if not done carefully. With the reverse sear method, you’ll start by cooking the steak at 250-260 degrees F (120-130 C) in the air fryer before searing it in a pan.

A reliable meat thermometer is essential here. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak before cooking to monitor the internal temperature accurately.

Sirloin steak in air fryer with meat thermometer

For convenience, choose a wireless meat thermometer or one with a long wire so you can keep an eye on the doneness without hassle.

Adding 1-2 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the air fryer can help create steam, which keeps the steak juicy throughout the cooking process.

The cooking time will vary based on how thick your steak is and how well done you like it. For my thinner cuts, about 4/5 inch or 2 centimeters thick, preheating the air fryer to 390 degrees F (200 C) and cooking for about 9 minutes achieved a perfect medium rare.

Sirloin Steak Internal Temperature Guide

Set your meat thermometer to alert you at these temperatures for your preferred doneness:

Rare: 127 F (53 C).
Medium rare: 135 F (57 C).
Medium: 145 F (63 C).
Medium well: 153 F (67 C).
Well done: 162 F (72 C).

Searing Your Sirloin Steak

After the steak reaches the desired temperature in the air fryer, it’s time to sear. Heat a pan until it’s smoking hot, then add a bit of oil or fat. Sear the steak for about 30 seconds on each side, just long enough to develop a rich, golden crust.

Make sure the pan is very hot before adding the fat, and allow the fat to heat for 10-20 seconds. This might get a bit smoky, but that smoke is key to a fantastic sear. For the best results, use a cast iron or carbon steel skillet.

For an extra gourmet touch, toss in some fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a knob of butter. Baste the steak with the melted butter for added flavor.

Cooking Multiple Sirloin Steaks

This recipe is scalable. You can cook several slices of steak in the air fryer without worrying about crowding, as we’re not searing them yet.

After air frying, there’s no rush to sear the steaks, so you can prepare them in batches and sear just before serving. Just remember not to overcrowd the pan during searing to maintain high heat.

Comparing Traditional and Air Fryer Sirloin Steak

Both traditional pan cooking and the air fryer method yield delicious steaks. Though pan-frying might edge out slightly juicier, the air fryer offers excellent temperature control and is ideal when cooking for a crowd.

Enjoy a steak that’s expertly cooked to perfection with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!