Let's talk about air fryer tri-tip steak, folks! If you're a steak lover (and who isn't?), you're going to flip for this version.
The air fryer makes it juicy on the inside with that perfect crust on the outside. It's so good, you'll find yourself making it on repeat. And guess what? No need to fire up the grill or heat up the oven.
We recently tried this on a weeknight, and let's just say, it was a game-changer. The ease, the flavor-it's a win-win! Ready to elevate your steak game? Here's how you do it.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Tri-tip Steak
To make a mouth-watering tri-tip steak, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Tri-tip Steak: 1.5 to 2 pounds, trimmed.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin.
- Garlic Powder: For flavor.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle tang.
- Smoked Paprika: For that smoky kick.
- Dried Herbs: Thyme or rosemary.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Marinade:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a bit of zing.
- Soy Sauce: For umami.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a touch of sharpness.
- Brown Sugar: Balances out the flavors.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Tri-tip Steak
Ensure a juicy, flavorsome steak with these handy tips:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Crucial for even cooking and achieving that tasty crust.
- Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to retain the juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness, typically 130°F for medium-rare.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Variations and Add-Ons
Make your Air Fryer Tri-tip Steak your own with these variations:
- Spicy Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Herb-Crusted Steak: Add a fresh herb rub with parsley, basil, or oregano.
- Garlic Butter Finish: Top with a dollop of garlic butter just before serving for an extra luxurious touch.
Juicy Air Fryer Tri-tip Steak
Equipment
- Air-fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Meat Thermometer
- Cutting board
- Chef's Knife
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds tri-tip steak trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients.
- Place the tri-tip steak in the bowl and coat well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the steak.
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. For medium-rare, it should be around 130°F.
- Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice against the grain and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate the steak ahead of time to enhance its flavor.
- Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat steak in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Nutrition
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
