Air Fryer New York Strip Steak Recipe

Air Fryer New York Strip Steak Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 New York strip steaks, about 1 1/4-inch thick
  • 1/2 teaspoon your favorite seasoned salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning (or seasoning of choice)
  • Olive oil cooking spray
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, or to taste)

Directions

  1. About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
  2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then sprinkle the seasoned salt and Montreal steak seasoning on both sides.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) according to the manufacturers instructions.
  4. Once the air fryer is fully preheated, lightly spray both sides of the steaks with olive oil cooking spray.
  5. Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded, and cook for about 10 minutes for medium-rare. Be sure to turn the steaks halfway through the cooking time.
  6. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the meat's internal temperature. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read 130F (54C) when inserted into the center of the steak.
  7. Once cooked, tent the steaks with foil and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
  8. Serve the steaks warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 704
Total Fat 50g
Saturated Fat 20g
Cholesterol 179mg
Sodium 479mg
Total Carbohydrate 0g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 59g
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 24mg
Iron 5mg
Potassium 809mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story and Heritage of the New York Strip Steak

The New York strip steak, also known as the strip loin or Kansas City strip, has a long-standing history rooted in American culinary tradition. Originating in the late 19th century, it gained fame in steakhouses of New York City, where tender, flavorful cuts of beef became a symbol of sophistication and indulgence. Its reputation grew as high-quality beef from the Midwest was transported to the East Coast, making the strip steak a preferred choice for diners seeking both texture and richness in every bite.

Regional Characteristics and Preparation Styles

Regionally, the preparation of New York strip steaks varies across the United States. In the Northeast, steaks are often seasoned simply with salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine. In the South, heavier seasoning blends or marinades with garlic, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce are common. The air fryer adaptation, as described in this recipe, is particularly popular in urban settings where traditional grilling might be impractical, offering a fast and consistent cooking method without sacrificing tenderness.

Distinctions from Similar Cuts

While it is often compared to ribeye and filet mignon, the New York strip stands out due to its fine grain, moderate marbling, and robust beef flavor. Unlike ribeye, it has less fat and a firmer texture, providing a balanced chew without losing juiciness. Compared to filet mignon, the strip has more pronounced beefy flavor but remains tender enough for delicate cooking techniques, making it an ideal choice for both casual and formal dining.

Where It Is Traditionally Served

New York strip steaks are a staple in steakhouses, family dinners, and special occasions. In restaurants, they are commonly paired with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or classic creamed spinach. At home, cooking methods such as pan-searing, grilling, or air frying make it accessible for everyday meals, offering a restaurant-quality experience without complex preparation. Its versatility allows it to appear on fine dining menus as well as casual backyard barbecues.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Insights

One intriguing fact about the New York strip steak is that it was once referred to as the club steak due to its popularity among private social clubs in New York City. Modern adaptations, such as air fryer cooking, have transformed its preparation by reducing cook times while preserving juiciness and flavor. Another lesser-known point is that the strip is part of the short loin, which also produces T-bone and porterhouse steaks; thus, understanding this cut gives insight into other classic steak varieties. Many chefs highlight its ability to hold seasoning well, making it ideal for creative rubs, while still delivering a naturally rich taste that requires minimal enhancements.

FAQ about Air Fryer New York Strip Steak Recipe

It's best to let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking for optimal results. However, if you're in a hurry, you can cook frozen steaks. You may need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes depending on the thickness of the steak.

Store leftover cooked steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 350°F) for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture and heat evenly.

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite seasoning. The recipe suggests seasoned salt and Montreal Steak Seasoning, but you can experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or even steak rubs of your choice.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the steak should reach 130°F (54°C). Adjust the cooking time for desired doneness: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for well-done.

Yes, you can cook multiple steaks in the air fryer, as long as they fit comfortably in a single layer without overcrowding. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the number of steaks and the size of your air fryer.

Absolutely! Marinating your steak can add extra flavor. Just make sure to pat the steak dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which could affect the texture during air frying.

Yes, you can add vegetables such as potatoes, bell peppers, or onions to the air fryer. However, keep in mind that vegetables may require different cooking times, so it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces and check their doneness halfway through cooking.

If your steak turned out dry and tough, it may have been overcooked. Make sure to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer, and consider tenting the steak with foil after cooking to allow it to rest, which helps retain moisture.

Allow the steak to rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and results in a juicier and more flavorful steak.

Yes, Worcestershire sauce can be used for extra flavor. It's optional, but a teaspoon can be brushed onto the steak before or after cooking to enhance the taste.

Comments

Patty Dice Smith

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I cook all my steaks in my air fryer now. I toss them lightly in olive oil, sprinkle with the seasoning of choice (in my case, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper), and cook as the recipe instructs. Quick, easy, and perfect. I don't bother with the room temperature piece, and I let them rest for about five minutes. This recipe provides an excellent base to work from because it provides cooking temperature and timing. If your steaks are cold, you may need to add a little time. Just check on them.

MARK FERGUSON

07/11/2025 12:10:28 AM

this was a total flop! I the steaks were dry and tough after cooking your way.

Lynn Plunkett

07/25/2024 10:10:47 PM

I have been cooking steaks in air fryer using the reverse sear method. Take steaks out of cooler at least 30 min ,preheat oven to 250* put steaks on a rack over pan and cook 30 min,until about 100* then cook 90 second each side on hot grill ot 2 mins ea side in 400* A/F, sounds weird but no resting time and the tenderest steak ever

SappyAle3463

06/18/2024 07:18:22 PM

Accidentally left it in the basket for 13-16 minutes at 400 instead of just the 10 minutes… Came out a little bit overdone than I was going for, but the diced potatoes I had in with it soaked up the melted marbling on the steak… They also over-crisped at 20 minutes as those were recommended… but with a little seasoning and the meat grease, they wouldn’t have been bad otherwise 😅

Scott Flores

06/16/2024 11:48:46 PM

Everyone complimented it.