Air Fryer Flank Steak {6 Ingredients}

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Yes, you CAN cook steak in the air fryer! Made with budget-friendly flank steak and a 5-ingredient dry rub, this Air Fryer Flank Steak recipe is tender, juicy, and cooks in less than 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need an easy dinner idea. 

When people think of steak, the first thing that comes to mind is grilling. But what happens when you want a nice, juicy steak and it’s raining, cold, or you’re out of charcoal or gas? Or maybe you don’t even own a grill.

This is when the air fryer really comes in handy. We love transforming conventional ways of cooking into recipes so easy that even kids can do it. And with minimal mess to clean up – it doesn’t get any better! Like these easy air fried butternut squash fries.

How to Make Flank Steak in the Air Fryer

Set the flank steak out on the counter about 30 minutes before cooking, to allow it to come to room temperature. Don’t skip this step – it’s important for the meat to relax and gives you a more tender steak.

Add the dry rub seasoning ingredients to a small bowl and mix together. 

Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees F. 

Pat the steak with paper towels until it is dry. Then sprinkle the seasonings on both sides and rub it into the meat until it’s incorporated. 

Spray the air fryer basket with a spritz of oil and place the steak in the basket. 

Cook at 380 degrees F until the steak reaches your desired temperature. We’ve included preferences and cooking times below.

Once it’s ready, remove the flank steak and cover it with foil. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. 

The Best Temperature to Eat Flank Steak 

Even if you’re normally not a fan of a rarer steak temp, when making flank steak it makes all of the difference. 

Flank steak is best when it is cooked rare, medium-rare, or medium. This lean cut can be chewier than other steak cuts, especially if overcooked.

When it’s cooked longer the steak becomes drier and tougher, which is why most people think they don’t like this cut of beef. But if cooked correctly it’s very tender.

Don’t forget that the steak will continue cooking while it’s resting. 

Rare Flank Steak (120–130°F)– air fry for 8 minutes 

Medium Flank Steak (135–145°F) – air fry for 10 minutes

Well Done Flank Steak (155°F and up) – air fry for 12 minutes (we don’t recommend going this far).

Use a meat thermometer to test the temperature before transferring the steak to a plate to rest.

Flank Steak Vs. Skirt Steak 

While they are the same shape and the names are sometimes used interchangeably, these are two different cuts of meat. 

Flank steak comes from the abdominal areas behind the chest, whereas skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscles. 

You can substitute the cuts, but flank steak is usually a more budget friendly option. Flank steak is also called London Broil in some areas.

Can You Cook Frozen Flank Steak in the Air Fryer?

We haven’t tried this recipe with frozen steak and can’t say for sure. You will need to cook the steak for a longer time, which means it may not be as tender.

If you decide to give it a try please come back and let us know how it turned out.

Storing and Reheating 

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place the sliced steak back in the air fryer for just a minute or two.  

Serving Suggestions 

Since the steak has to rest for a few minutes, you can use the air fryer again to make your side dish. I recommend trying onion rings, homemade chips, tater tots, kale chips, or diced potatoes.

All of these are super easy and will be ready by the time you need to slice the steak. 

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