Over the years of working as a professional chef, I’ve found that the air fryer is a fantastic tool for cooking a tri-tip steak to perfection. With a crispy outer crust and a juicy, tender interior, this method ensures delicious results every time.
Whether you're new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into the details of making an air fryer tri-tip steak that will impress your family and friends.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Number of Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 1 lb tri-tip steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Olive oil spray for air fryer
Instructions
- Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- While the air fryer is heating, rub olive oil all over the tri-tip steak. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Rub the seasoning mix evenly on all sides of the steak.
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the tri-tip steak into the basket. Air fry for about 8-12 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Flip halfway through cooking to ensure an even sear on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, it should reach 130°F, for medium 140°F, and for well-done 150°F.
- Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
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Recipe Notes
- Select a tri-tip with good marbling for optimal flavor and tenderness. The marbling ensures that the meat stays juicy even after air frying.
- Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes to ensure that the steak cooks evenly throughout. This also helps achieve that perfect sear on the outside.
- Use a non-aerosol olive oil spray for your air fryer. Aerosol sprays can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket.
- Depending on how thick your tri-tip is, cooking time may vary slightly. Keep a close eye on it, and use a meat thermometer to achieve your preferred doneness.
- Resting is key. This is essential for keeping your steak juicy. If you cut into the steak too soon, the juices will escape, leaving you with a drier piece of meat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Total Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 0g
What to Serve with Air Fryer Tri-Tip Steak?
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots in olive oil and garlic, and roast them for a perfect healthy side.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic pairing with steak. Add some garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp lettuce and creamy dressing can balance out the richness of the steak.
- Gravy: Drizzle some rich gravy over your steak for an indulgent touch.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delicious side that complements the steak.
FAQs
Can I Cook Frozen Tri-Tip in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen tri-tip in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time to 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 130°F for medium-rare.
Is It Good to Cook Tri-Tip Steak in an Air Fryer?
Yes, cooking tri-tip steak in an air fryer gives it a crispy, seared exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It's a quick and efficient method.
How Do I Keep My Tri-Tip Steak From Drying Out in the Air Fryer?
To avoid drying out your tri-tip, make sure to preheat the air fryer and use high heat to cook the steak quickly. Rest the steak after cooking to retain moisture.
