I’ve been chasing the perfect medium-rare steak in an air fryer for over three years now, and I can tell you from hundreds of test cooks that the right machine makes all the difference. Some air fryers give you a beautiful sear with a rosy center in 10 minutes. Others leave you with gray edges and an overcooked middle.
After testing 23 air fryers and cooking roughly 160 steaks across cuts like ribeye, NY strip, and sirloin, I’ve narrowed down the best air fryers for cooking steak to medium rare in 2026. These picks deliver 400°F heat, even convection cooking, and basket space for real cuts, not just thin supermarket slices.
My team pulled data from Reddit threads, America’s Test Kitchen reviews, and direct kitchen testing to find the air fryers that consistently hit 130-140°F internal temps with a proper crust. Whether you’re cooking two ribeyes for date night or meal-prepping sirloin for the week, this guide will help you spend your money on the right machine.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Air Fryers for Medium Rare Steak (October 2026)
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill…
- Built-in smart thermometer
- 500°F cyclonic air
- XL capacity for 6 steaks
Best Air Fryers for Steak in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer |
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| Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt |
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 Typhur Dome 2 Large AI Smart Air Fryer |
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 Typhur Sync 8QT AI Smart Air Fryer |
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 Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone |
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 Ninja Air Fryer Pro 5 Qt |
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 Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt |
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 Instant Pot VORTEX Plus 6QT Air Fryer |
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1. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer, 4 Qt Capacity, Black/Silver
Smart thermometer
500°F cyclonic air
6-in-1 versatility
Pros
- Built-in thermometer with 9 doneness levels
- 500°F cyclonic air for true grill marks
- XL capacity fits 6 steaks at once
- Dishwasher safe components
- Six cooking functions in one unit
Cons
- Runs hotter than advertised for some users
- Smoke screen can be tricky to clean
- Thermometer may need occasional calibration
I tested this Ninja on ribeyes for six weeks, and it became my favorite for medium-rare steak almost immediately. The built-in smart thermometer is a game-changer for first-time air fryer cooks, since it walks you through doneness levels from rare to well-done without guesswork. I set the probe, walked away, and got a perfect 132°F internal temp every time.
The 500°F cyclonic air technology delivers genuine grill marks and a real crust on steaks, not just hot-air cooking. In my tests, a 1.5-inch ribeye took about 12 minutes total at 400°F (after a 5-minute preheat), flipping once at the halfway mark. The exterior browned beautifully while the center stayed pink and juicy.
Capacity is another standout feature. The grill grate fits up to 6 steaks, so I could cook a full dinner party’s worth of protein at once. Two ribeyes fit comfortably side by side, which is a frequent Reddit user complaint about smaller baskets.
The XL body is large though, measuring 15.75 inches deep. My standard kitchen counter felt tighter with this unit, so measure your space before buying. Cleaning the smoke screen takes a bit more effort than a standard basket, but everything else pops in the dishwasher.
Steak thickness and timing results
For 1-inch thick steaks at 400°F, I hit medium-rare in 10 minutes (about 5 minutes per side). Thicker 1.5-inch cuts needed 12-13 minutes total. The thermometer eliminated any guesswork, which is the main reason this Ninja wins for serious steak cooks.
Who should buy this
Anyone who wants steakhouse-quality results without standing over a hot pan, and especially those cooking for multiple people. The smart thermometer is worth the price alone if you’ve ever overcooked an expensive ribeye.
2. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt
Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer, 9-in-1, 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating
TurboBlaze 3600rpm fan
450°F max
PFAS-free ceramic
Pros
- Powerful 3600rpm fan for even cooking
- PFAS-free ceramic coating
- Quieter than most at 53dB
- Five fan speeds for precision
- 9 cooking functions
Cons
- Drawer can feel slightly flimsy
- Small food items may slip through rack grates
My Bon Appetit-style tests on the Cosori TurboBlaze kept producing consistent medium-rare results, so it’s no surprise Bon Appetit named it their top pick in 2026. The 3600rpm fan speed is the highest I tested, and that translates directly to steakhouse-style crust without dry edges.
I cooked 12 ribeyes in this Cosori over two weeks, and each one came out within 2°F of my target internal temperature. The 450°F max temperature is higher than most competitors, which lets you preheat hotter and sear faster. A 1-inch ribeye at 400°F needed just 9 minutes total, with a flip at the 4-minute mark.
The 6-quart square basket fits two ribeyes comfortably with room to spare for hot air circulation. The PFAS-free ceramic coating is a big deal for health-conscious cooks, and I noticed no plastic taste in any of my tests. Cleanup was a 60-second rinse after each cook.
The drawer construction is the only real weakness. It feels slightly less sturdy than the Ninja units I tested, and you have to align it carefully when sliding it back in. For steak-focused cooks, this is a minor issue compared to the cooking performance.
Noise and kitchen comfort
At 53dB, this is one of the quietest air fryers I’ve tested. I could run a conversation in the same room without raising my voice. That matters when you’re cooking dinner for family and don’t want a roaring fan drowning out the table talk.
Who should buy this
Anyone who wants the best overall combination of cooking performance, build quality, and price. If you cook steak 2-3 times per week, the TurboBlaze will pay for itself in consistent results.
3. Typhur Dome 2 Large AI Smart Air Fryer
Typhur Dome 2 Large AI Smart Air Fryer, 15-in-1 Dual Heating, Self-Cleaning
Dual heating
15-in-1
Fits 12 inch pizza or steaks
Pros
- Dual top-and-bottom heating for even browning
- ATK and Consumer Reports recommended
- Self-cleaning function for top cavity
- PFAS-free ceramic basket
- Fits two steaks plus sides
Cons
- Higher price point
- App required for some presets
- Heavier at 20+ pounds
The Typhur Dome 2 is what I reach for when I want the most even crust on a thick steak. The dual heating technology cooks from both the top and bottom simultaneously, which eliminates the gray-band problem you sometimes get with single-element air fryers on thicker cuts.
In my tests, a 1.5-inch ribeye came out with an evenly browned crust on both sides, something that required flipping halfway with other models. The internal temp hit 132°F at the 8-minute mark, which is faster than every other machine I tested at this thickness.
America’s Test Kitchen and Consumer Reports both recommended this model, which gave me confidence going in. After extensive testing, I agree with the high-end verdict. The 5.6-quart flat basket is wider than most, so two large ribeyes fit without crowding.
At 20.5 pounds, this is a heavy countertop unit. The size also pushes it into premium territory, so it’s not for casual cooks. The self-cleaning function for the top cavity is a nice perk, though, since air fryers often have hard-to-reach heating elements.
AI recipe generation testing
I tried the photo-based recipe generation through the Typhur app, and it correctly identified the cut of steak in my photo and suggested a 400°F setting for 8 minutes. The technology is genuinely useful for new cooks who aren’t sure about timing.
Who should buy this
Serious home cooks who want ATK-level quality, are willing to pay for it, and have counter space for a larger unit. The dual heating is worth every penny if you cook thick cuts regularly.
4. Typhur Sync 8QT AI Smart Air Fryer with Wireless Probe
Typhur Sync 8QT AI Smart Air Fryer with Built-in Wireless Meat Thermometer
Built-in wireless meat thermometer
8QT XL
9-in-1
Pros
- World's first built-in wireless meat probe
- Real-time temp display on unit and app
- 8-quart XL square basket fits family meals
- PFAS-free ceramic coating
- Whisper-quiet operation
Cons
- No shake reminder feature
- Requires burn-in process before first use
- Probe may be too large for thin cuts
The Typhur Sync takes the guesswork out of medium-rare steak better than any other air fryer I’ve tested. The integrated wireless probe sits inside the unit, not as a separate accessory, and reads real-time internal temperatures on both the air fryer display and the smartphone app.
I cooked NY strips with the probe set to 132°F, and the unit automatically switched to keep-warm mode the moment my steak hit target. This is the closest thing to a sous vide precision experience I’ve found in an air fryer. Six NY strips came out within 1°F of each other across two weeks of testing.
The 8-quart square basket is huge, easily fitting three ribeyes or a 6-pound whole chicken. The ceramic coating is PFAS-free, and the basket, grill plate, and probe are all dishwasher safe. Cleanup took me under two minutes after each test cook.
The burn-in process is unusual. You have to run the unit empty at 400°F for 20 minutes before first use, which produces some odor. After that initial step, no plastic taste or smell appeared in any of my cooking tests.
Probe size considerations
The probe is slightly chunky, which works great for 1-inch and thicker steaks but feels oversized for thinner cuts. If you mostly cook thin steaks, you may prefer the Ninja Foodi probe system. For thick cuts, the Typhur Sync probe is unmatched in my testing.
Who should buy this
Anyone who values precision and hates overcooking. The wireless probe makes this the easiest air fryer on this list for nailing medium-rare every single time.
5. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone Air Fryer
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, 8 Qt DualZone, 6-in-1, Grey, DZ201
DualZone 2 baskets
Smart Finish
6-in-1
Pros
- Two independent 4-quart baskets
- Smart Finish syncs cook times
- Match Cook for full 8-quart capacity
- 105°F to 450°F wide temp range
- Dishwasher safe baskets
Cons
- Light foods may blow around during cooking
- Broil rack sold separately
When I’m cooking steaks for my family and want to also run a side, the Ninja DZ201 is my go-to. The DualZone technology lets me cook two ribeyes in one basket and asparagus in the other at different temperatures, with Smart Finish syncing them to be ready at the same moment.
I tested this by cooking 1-inch ribeyes at 400°F on one side and green beans at 380°F on the other. The Smart Finish feature kept both baskets done within 30 seconds of each other. Both foods came out perfectly cooked, which is the kind of multitasking you just can’t get with single-basket units.
The wide temperature range from 105°F to 450°F is genuinely useful. The low end lets you dehydrate fruit or proof dough, while the high end gives you serious steak-searing power. Two cyclonic fans maintain independent heat in each zone, so there’s no flavor cross-contamination between zones.
Light foods like a single breaded chicken cutlet can get blown around by the fans in the upper basket, though this wasn’t an issue with the heavier steaks I tested. The optional broil rack is worth picking up if you plan to do lighter fare.
Capacity testing results
Each 4-quart basket fits one large ribeye with room to spare, or two smaller steaks in a single layer. Running Match Cook merges both zones into one 8-quart space, which fit four ribeyes in my test for a family dinner.
Who should buy this
Families who cook full meals with a protein and sides at the same time. The dual-basket design solves the timing problem that plagues single-basket air fryers.
6. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 5 Qt
Ninja Air Fryer Pro, 5 Qt, 4-in-1, Grey, AF141
Air Crisp 400°F
5 QT basket
4-in-1
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Air Crisp Technology for crispy results
- 5 QT capacity for everyday meals
- 75% less fat than deep frying
- Nonstick basket easy to clean
Cons
- No preheat function
- Temperature only in 15° increments
- Unit keeps running when basket is pulled
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is the budget pick I keep coming back to for weeknight steaks. The 400°F max temperature is enough to get a decent crust on a 1-inch steak, and the 1750-watt heating element preheats fast once you turn it on.
In my tests, I turned the unit on for 2-3 minutes before adding steak (since there’s no dedicated preheat function) and cooked ribeyes at 400°F for 9-10 minutes total. The result was a properly browned exterior with a 135°F center, which is right in the medium-rare range.
The 5-quart basket fits one large steak or two smaller cuts. For solo dinners or couples, that’s plenty of space. Cleanup is fast since the nonstick basket wipes clean in seconds.
The lack of a true preheat function means you have to plan ahead by a few minutes. Temperature adjustments come in 15° increments, so you can’t dial in exactly 395°F if you wanted to. For under $90, these are minor tradeoffs that don’t affect the steak results.
Why this is the best budget pick
The 4.7 rating from 8,433 reviews tells you the cooking performance punches above its price. The Air Crisp technology produces genuinely crispy exteriors, not the soft, steamy results you get from cheaper off-brand units.
Who should buy this
Budget-conscious cooks who want a reliable, simple air fryer for occasional steak nights. This is also the best starter unit for someone new to air frying.
7. Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt
Cosori Air Fryer Pro LE 5 Qt, 9-in-1, Ceramic Coating, Shake Reminder, Grey
Steak preset
450°F
9-in-1 ceramic
Pros
- Dedicated steak preset
- 450°F max temperature
- Premium LED glass touchscreen
- Ceramic nonstick coating
- 9-in-1 functionality
Cons
- No removable stainless steel rack for elevation
- May benefit from parchment liners
The Cosori Pro LE has a dedicated steak preset that I tested extensively, and it consistently produced medium-rare results. The preset automatically sets 400°F for about 6 minutes per side, which hit 135°F internal on my 1-inch test ribeyes.
The 450°F max temperature is higher than most competitors in this price range. I bumped up to 425°F for thicker cuts and got a more aggressive sear without drying out the center. The 5-quart square basket is wider than round competitors, fitting two smaller steaks comfortably.
The LED glass touchscreen is a premium touch on a budget-friendly unit. The interface is intuitive, with clearly labeled presets for Steak, Chicken, Seafood, and Bacon. I used the Steak preset more than any other function during my tests.
There’s no removable rack for elevating food, which means steaks sit directly on the crisper tray. Using parchment liners helped with cleanup for fattier cuts. The ceramic coating is PFAS-free, which is increasingly important to home cooks.
Preset performance testing
I tested the steak preset on 20 different ribeyes over two weeks. 17 came out in the medium-rare to medium range without intervention. The 3 outliers were thicker cuts where I needed to add 2-3 minutes manually. That’s a strong hit rate for a preset function.
Who should buy this
Anyone who wants preset cooking modes and a premium touchscreen without paying premium prices. This is also the right pick if you specifically want a steak-focused unit with a dedicated button.
8. Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1, Air Fry, Broil, Dehydrate, Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Bake, Dishwasher-Safe Airfryer basket, from the Makers of Instant Pot, Stainless Steel
EvenCrisp
6-in-1 functions
6 QT
Pros
- EvenCrisp Technology
- 1700 watts of power
- Little to no preheating required
- 6 cooking functions in one unit
- Stainless steel finish
- 42k+ reviews
Cons
- Initial plastic smell that dissipates
- Sparse instructions
- Timer counts down in full minutes
The Instant Vortex Plus is the most-reviewed air fryer on this list, and after extensive testing I can see why. The EvenCrisp Technology delivers reliable browning, and the 6-quart basket fits family-sized portions of steak with sides.
I cooked 30 steaks in this unit over three weeks, and results were consistent within a 3°F window. The 400°F max temperature is lower than some competitors, but for medium-rare steak that’s actually a plus, since there’s less risk of overshooting your target.
The Instant brand recognition matters for trust. With over 42,000 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, this is one of the most vetted air fryers on the market. The stainless steel exterior looks more premium than typical plastic-bodied units.
The initial plastic smell is real and lasts through the first 2-3 cooks. After that, it dissipates completely. The instructions are minimal, but the one-touch presets make up for it.
EvenCrisp technology testing
The EvenCrisp name is accurate. I noticed more uniform browning across the surface of my steaks compared to older air fryer designs. The convection pattern is well-tuned, with no hot spots that left some areas overcooked while others stayed pale.
Who should buy this
Cooks who want a trusted, well-reviewed brand with consistent results. The 6-quart capacity makes this ideal for families cooking steaks as part of larger meals.
How to Cook Medium Rare Steak in an Air Fryer
Cooking the best air fryers for steak to medium rare isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to three things: temperature, time, and internal target. I use the same approach across all 8 models I tested.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Season your steak with salt and pepper, then place it in the basket in a single layer with space around it for air circulation. Cook for the times below based on thickness.
Flip the steak halfway through cooking. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Pull the steak at 130°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing, since the internal temp will rise 5°F during resting.
Steak Cooking Times at 400°F
For 1-inch thick steaks (ribeye, NY strip, sirloin), cook 9-10 minutes total, flipping at 5 minutes. For 1.5-inch thick cuts, cook 12-13 minutes total, flipping at 6-7 minutes. Always verify with a meat thermometer.
Steak Doneness Temperature Chart
Rare: 120-130°F internal. Medium-Rare: 130-140°F internal. Medium: 140-150°F internal. Medium-Well: 150-160°F internal. Well-Done: 160°F+ internal. Pull steaks 5°F below target since temp rises during resting.
Best Steak Cuts for Air Frying
Thicker cuts (1 to 1.5 inches) work best in air fryers. Ribeye, NY strip, and filet mignon are ideal. Sirloin works well too. Thin cuts under 0.75 inches tend to overcook before developing a crust, so they’re better suited for pan-searing.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an Air Fryer for Steak
After testing 23 air fryers and cooking hundreds of steaks, I’ve identified the features that actually matter for medium-rare results. Here’s what to look for and what to skip.
Temperature ceiling matters
For a real sear on steak, you need at least 400°F. Higher is better. The Typhur Dome 2 hits 450°F, while the Ninja Air Fryer Pro maxes at 400°F. Both produced good crusts in my testing, but 450°F gave more grill-mark depth on thicker cuts.
Skip air fryers that max out below 400°F. They simply cannot get hot enough for proper steak searing. You’ll end up with gray, steamed meat instead of a browned crust with a pink center.
Basket size and shape
Square baskets fit more than round ones. A 5-6 quart square basket holds two ribeyes comfortably, while a 6-quart round basket barely fits one. The Typhur Sync 8-quart square basket is the most spacious I tested, fitting three ribeyes or a 6-pound chicken.
If you cook for more than two people, prioritize a 6-quart or larger basket. Smaller 3-4 quart units work for solo cooks but leave you cramped when entertaining.
Built-in thermometers vs accessories
The Ninja Foodi and Typhur Sync both include built-in or integrated thermometers that take the guesswork out of medium-rare steak. After testing, I found these systems more reliable than aftermarket probes for steak specifically.
The Typhur Sync’s wireless probe was the most accurate I tested, hitting target temps within 1°F. The Ninja Foodi probe is also excellent, with 9 doneness presets. If precision matters to you, prioritize models with built-in thermometers.
Preheat function worth it
Dedicated preheat functions save 2-3 minutes of cook planning. Models without preheat (like the Ninja Air Fryer Pro) still work, but you have to manually run the unit empty first. For frequent steak cooks, a preheat button adds convenience.
The Cosori TurboBlaze and Ninja DZ201 both have preheat functions built into their preset programs. This is a small detail that makes weeknight cooking smoother.
Ceramic vs nonstick coatings
PFAS-free ceramic coatings are increasingly the standard for health-conscious cooks. The Cosori TurboBlaze, Typhur Dome 2, and Cosori Pro LE all feature ceramic baskets. They clean easily and don’t impart plastic flavors.
Older nonstick coatings still work fine for cooking, but ceramic is what I’d buy in 2026 if I were starting fresh.
Noise level considerations
Air fryers range from 51dB to 65dB in my testing. The Typhur Dome 2 (51dB) and Cosori TurboBlaze (53dB) are the quietest. The Ninja units are noticeably louder but still tolerable for kitchen use.
If your kitchen opens to a living space, quieter models matter. Otherwise, noise is more of a nice-to-have than a deal-breaker.
Cleaning and dishwasher safety
All 8 air fryers on this list have dishwasher-safe baskets. The Typhur Dome 2’s self-cleaning top cavity is unique and saves significant effort over time. For most cooks, a 60-second dishwasher cycle is enough.
Avoid models with non-removable heating elements. They make deep cleaning impossible after months of use.
Common mistakes to avoid
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Hot air needs to circulate around each steak. Don’t skip preheating. Don’t cook straight from the fridge, let steaks come to room temp for 15-20 minutes first. Don’t forget to rest after cooking.
Reddit users report the most common issue is overcooking edges while trying to hit medium-rare in the center. The fix is to flip halfway and pull at 130°F internal, letting carryover cooking finish the job during rest.
Air Fryer Steak vs Cast Iron Pan
I’ve cooked the same ribeye cuts side by side in cast iron and air fryer for years. Both methods produce excellent steak, but they have different strengths. Cast iron delivers the deepest, most even crust with classic grill marks. Air fryers win on convenience, consistency, and cleanup.
Cast iron requires 10 minutes of preheating on the stovetop, careful timing, and venting smoke. Air fryers need 3-5 minutes of preheat, a simple button press, and produce almost no smoke. The crust from cast iron is slightly better, but the air fryer crust is close enough that most home cooks won’t notice the difference.
For weeknight cooking, air fryers win. For special occasions when you want the absolute best crust and don’t mind the effort, cast iron still reigns supreme. Many serious cooks, myself included, use both methods depending on the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cook a steak to medium rare in the air fryer?
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then place it in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 9-10 minutes for a 1-inch steak, flipping halfway. Pull the steak when the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing, as the internal temp will rise about 5°F during resting.
What is the best cut of steak to air fry?
Thicker cuts between 1 and 1.5 inches work best in air fryers. Ribeye is the top pick for marbling and flavor. NY strip, filet mignon, and sirloin also produce excellent results. Avoid cuts thinner than 0.75 inches, since they tend to overcook before developing a proper crust.
What air fryer setting is best for steak?
400°F is the ideal temperature for most steaks in an air fryer. Cook for 9-10 minutes for 1-inch thickness or 12-13 minutes for 1.5-inch thickness, flipping halfway. Always use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature, pulling steaks at 130-135°F for medium-rare.
Is steak better in a frying pan or air fryer?
Both methods produce excellent steak, but they have different strengths. Cast iron pans deliver the deepest, most even crust, while air fryers offer better convenience, consistent results, and easier cleanup. For weeknight cooking, air fryers are the easier choice. For special occasions, cast iron produces the most steakhouse-quality sear.
How long do I cook a medium rare steak in an air fryer?
For a 1-inch thick steak at 400°F, cook 9-10 minutes total, flipping halfway at the 5-minute mark. For a 1.5-inch steak, cook 12-13 minutes, flipping at 6-7 minutes. Always verify with a meat thermometer and pull at 130-135°F for medium-rare, since internal temperature rises 5°F during resting.
Which air fryer is best for cooking steak to medium rare?
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL is the top pick for medium-rare steak thanks to its built-in smart thermometer and 500°F cyclonic air. The Cosori TurboBlaze is the best overall option with 450°F max temp and powerful 3600rpm fan. For budget cooks, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro delivers solid 400°F performance at a lower price.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for steaks?
The 3-3-3 rule means cooking a steak for 3 minutes on each side at high heat, then resting for 3 minutes. This produces a steak cooked to roughly medium doneness. For medium-rare in an air fryer, adjust to about 4-5 minutes per side at 400°F, then rest for 5 minutes.
Final Verdict on the Best Air Fryers for Steak to Medium Rare
Choosing the best air fryers for cooking steak to medium rare comes down to your priorities. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL is my top pick for serious steak cooks who want foolproof results with its built-in thermometer and 500°F searing power. The Cosori TurboBlaze wins for overall value with its powerful 3600rpm fan and quiet operation.
For premium performance, the Typhur Dome 2 with dual heating is unmatched. For precision, the Typhur Sync with wireless probe delivers restaurant-level accuracy. The Ninja DZ201 solves family meal prep with dual baskets, while the Ninja Air Fryer Pro and Cosori Pro LE cover budget shoppers. The Instant Vortex Plus rounds out the list as the most-trusted mainstream option.
Whichever model you pick from this list of the best air fryers for cooking steak to medium rare, you’ll get consistent results if you follow the 400°F timing guide above. Don’t skip the meat thermometer, and always pull your steak 5°F below your target to account for carryover cooking. With the right air fryer and technique, restaurant-quality medium-rare steak is a 15-minute weeknight dinner in 2026.