Are you looking for a quick and easy way to cook beef tenderloin steak? Look no further than your trusty air fryer!
With its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, the air fryer is the perfect tool for preparing this delicious cut of meat. Whether you prefer your steak rare or well-done, there are a variety of methods and seasonings you can use to achieve the perfect flavor and texture.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best tips and tricks for cooking beef tenderloin steak in an air fryer, so you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
So, let’s get started!
How To Cook Beef Tenderloin Steak In Air Fryer?
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to note that not all air fryers are created equal. Cooking times may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
To begin, remove the beef tenderloin steak from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly.
Next, season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic, oregano, or rosemary for added flavor.
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before cooking. Once it’s heated up, place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
For rare steak, cook for 9-10 minutes. For medium-rare, cook for 10-12 minutes. And for medium, cook for 12-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak – rare should be around 125 degrees Fahrenheit, medium-rare around 135 degrees Fahrenheit, and medium around 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer basket and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Beef Tenderloin Steak
When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef tenderloin steak for your air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, consider the thickness of the steak. A thickness of 1 1/2 to 2 inches is ideal for a filet mignon, as it allows for even cooking and a juicy, tender result.
If you’re serving a small crowd, a center-cut tenderloin is a great option as it is evenly shaped and easy to roast whole. For larger dinner parties, a tail-end tenderloin can be used, but be sure to tie the roast to ensure even cooking.
It’s also important to note that while all filet mignon comes from beef tenderloin, not all of the tenderloin is filet mignon. Beef tenderloin is divided into various cuts including filet mignon, chateaubriand, tail, muscle on roast, and chains. Filet mignon is especially tender despite being a lean cut of beef, with only 17% fat compared to the 25% found in beef tenderloin.
When selecting your beef tenderloin steak for air frying, consider your preference for tenderness and fat content. If you prefer a leaner cut with less fat, go for filet mignon. If you prefer a slightly fattier cut with more flavor, try a different cut of beef tenderloin such as chateaubriand or muscle on roast.
Ultimately, choosing the right cut of beef tenderloin steak for your air fryer will depend on your personal preference and the occasion. Keep in mind the thickness of the steak and your desired level of tenderness and fat content when making your selection.
Preparing The Steak For Air Frying
Before cooking the steak in your air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare it. Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure a crispy exterior when cooked in the air fryer.
Next, brush or drizzle a small amount of oil on both sides of the steak. This will help prevent the steak from sticking to the air fryer basket and also add flavor to the meat.
Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic, oregano, or rosemary for added flavor. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure they are evenly distributed.
If you have time, marinating the steak for 30 minutes or more before cooking can also add flavor and tenderness to the meat. Simply place the seasoned steak in a shallow dish with olive oil and let it marinate until it comes to room temperature.
Once you’ve properly prepared your steak, it’s ready to be cooked in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before cooking and follow the cooking instructions outlined above for your desired level of doneness.
Seasoning Options For Beef Tenderloin Steak
When it comes to seasoning beef tenderloin steak, there are endless options to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Classic Salt and Pepper: Sometimes simple is best! Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper for a classic and delicious flavor.
2. Garlic and Herb: Mix together minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano with some olive oil to create a flavorful paste. Rub it all over the steak before cooking for a delicious garlic and herb crust.
3. Spicy: For those who like a little heat, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy rub. Rub it all over the steak before cooking for a delicious kick.
4. Mustard and Herb: Mix together Dijon mustard, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a tangy and flavorful coating.
No matter which seasoning option you choose, be sure to generously coat both sides of the steak before cooking for maximum flavor.
Cooking Times And Temperatures For Perfectly Cooked Steak
Cooking times and temperatures are crucial when it comes to achieving a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steak in an air fryer. As mentioned earlier, the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer, as well as the thickness of the steak.
For rare steak, cook for 8-10 minutes per pound (per 450g), until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius). For medium-rare steak, cook for an additional 5 minutes per degree, until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius). And for medium steak, cook for an additional 5 minutes per degree, until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
It’s important to note that these cooking times and temperatures are just a general guideline. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure that it’s cooked to your liking. Also, remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a tender and juicy steak.
Tips For Achieving A Crispy Exterior And Juicy Interior
Achieving a crispy exterior and juicy interior for your beef tenderloin steak in the air fryer is all about the cooking process. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect steak:
1. Pat the steak dry before seasoning it. Moisture on the steak can prevent it from getting a nice sear and crispy exterior.
2. Use a high smoke point oil like canola or avocado oil to coat the steak before seasoning it. This will help the steak get a nice sear and prevent it from sticking to the air fryer basket.
3. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Make sure there is enough space around the steak for air to circulate and cook it evenly.
4. Flip the steak halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking on both sides.
5. Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
By following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steak with a crispy exterior and juicy interior in your air fryer.
Serving And Enjoying Your Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin Steak
Now that your air fryer beef tenderloin steak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy it! Here are some tips for serving and enjoying your delicious steak:
1. Slice it against the grain: When slicing your steak, be sure to cut against the grain. This will ensure that the meat is tender and easy to chew.
2. Add a sauce or topping: While the beef tenderloin steak is delicious on its own, you can elevate the flavor by adding a sauce or topping. Try a classic béarnaise sauce, a creamy mushroom sauce, or even just a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles.
3. Pair it with a side dish: A perfectly cooked beef tenderloin steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
4. Enjoy with a glass of wine: A glass of red wine can complement the flavors of your beef tenderloin steak perfectly. Choose a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to pair with the rich and savory flavors of the steak.
5. Savor each bite: Take your time when enjoying your air fryer beef tenderloin steak. Savor each bite and appreciate the delicious flavors and textures of this classic cut of meat.
With these tips, you can serve and enjoy your air fryer beef tenderloin steak like a pro. So fire up that air fryer and get cooking!