How to Reheat a Steak in an Air Fryer: Unmissable Tips and Tricks

By Avi Green February 01, 2023

For the true barbecue enthusiasts out there, the passion for a perfectly grilled steak runs deep. But what if you're faced with the delightful dilemma of leftover steak? Nobody wants to waste a delicious cut, but reheating it improperly can rob it of its flavor and texture. How to reheat a steak in an air fryer becomes pivotal in maintaining that grill quality. If youre skeptical about reheating steak and ensuring it still tastes phenomenal, then you've landed on the right page.

The Science Behind Reheating Steak

Steak lovers, let's get into the nitty-gritty. When you initially grill a steak, you aim for certain precision be it medium-rare, medium, or well-done. This comes down to the Maillard reaction, wherein high heat causes amino acids and sugars in the steak to react, leading to complex flavors and that mouth-watering crust. Reheating can disrupt this harmony if not done correctly. But fret not, because the air fryer can be your best ally.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a modern electronic marvel, lauded for its ability to mimic the results of frying with minimal oil. But its benefits don't end there. Its even heat distribution and fast cooking time make it an excellent tool for reheating. This method ensures that your steak remains juicy without drying out the outer layers all while retaining that delightful, slightly crispy edge.

Key Advantages:

Even heating that prevents overcooking
Quick and efficient reheating process
Minimal loss of moisture

Preparation Is Key

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, you need to understand the preparation that goes into ensuring your steak is reheated to perfection. While it might sound straightforward, a few small steps can go a long way in replicating that right-off-the-grill flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating Steak in an Air Fryer

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375F and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that your steak gets immediate and even heat when it goes into the air fryer.

2. Prepare the Steak

If your leftover steak is refrigerated, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This allows for even heating. Meanwhile, you can brush a light coat of olive oil on both sides to retain moisture and add flavor.

3. Season If Necessary

While your steak rests, consider sprinkling a bit of salt, pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning. This can reinvigorate the flavors, especially if the steak was initially under-seasoned.

4. Place the Steak in the Air Fryer

Lay the steak in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure theres enough room around each piece for air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven reheating.

5. Reheat to Perfection

Reheat the steak for about 3-5 minutes. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature between 110F and 130F, depending on your desired doneness.
For more related tips, check out reheat chicken.

6. Let It Rest

Once youve achieved the desired temperature, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for another 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and succulent.

Extra Tips for Steak Lovers

Reheating Steak with Sides

Why stop at reheating the steak? Utilize your air fryer to reheat classic barbecue sides for a complete meal experience. For instance, you can easily reheat baked potatoes in the air fryer as well.