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Air fryer steak cubes with a perfectly seared exterior and juicy medium rare center, served with garlic cloves and fresh rosemary on a white plate.
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Air Fryer Steak Cubes - Juicy, Quick, and Perfectly Seared

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds steak (sirloin, ribeye, New York strip, or tri-tip), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Optional finishing: 1 tablespoon butter, fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or flaky salt
  • Optional marinade (choose one): teriyaki sauce, chimichurri, balsamic-soy mix, or your favorite steak seasoning blend

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes. A hot basket gives you better browning.
  • Prep the steak: Pat the cubes dry with paper towels. Dry surface = better sear and less steaming.
  • Season well: In a bowl, toss the steak with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  • Arrange in the basket: Spread the cubes in a single layer with space between pieces. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  • Air fry: Cook for 6–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Aim for: Rare: 6 minutes
  • Medium-rare: 7–8 minutes
  • Medium: 8–9 minutes
  • Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer if you have one. Target 125–130°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium. They’ll rise a few degrees while resting.
  • Rest and finish: Transfer to a plate, toss with butter, and let rest 3–4 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley or flaky salt, and add a squeeze of lemon if you like.
  • Serve: Enjoy over rice, with roasted veggies, inside tacos, or as steak bites with your favorite dipping sauce.