This air fryer flat iron steak recipe is the best quick and easy way to cook fork-tender and juicy steaks to your perfect degree of doneness in under 15 minutes. No need to marinate!

air fryer flat iron steak with a slice of lime on the side

Hands-down the air fryer is among the most versatile and convenient kitchen appliances. In fact, I have an entire section of my website devoted to AF recipes!

From crisping up frozen snacks to cooking elegant seafood dishes, it is a countertop device that does it all! And this air fryer flat iron steak recipe is another great example of how practically effortless it is to perfectly cook your favorite foods.

Here we coat thick steaks steaks in a classic olive oil and herb marinade. This simple combination really lets the savory flavor of the meat shine, while also making the dish have a more elevated restaurant-quality taste.

There is no marinating needed - although, to note, it is recommended that you allow the meat to sit out at room temperature for about 20 minutes before coating in the oil blend and cooking.

Then air fry the steaks for less than 15 minutes, depending on how rare or well done you like your steak. Before you know if you are enjoying a melt-in-your-mouth piece of delicious flat iron steak that tastes just like - if not better! - than a what you get at a casual dining eatery. Pair with your favorite hearty sides to get the full steakhouse experience from the comfort of home!

Recipe ingredients

Flat iron steak. Choose cuts that are similar in size and are about about 1-inch thick. There should be an even amount of fat marbling throughout the meat.

Olive oil. A rich quality oil that cooks food beautifully brown in the air fryer.

Garlic. Freshly minced has the most fragrant and delicious taste.

Spices. Here we use a simple yet flavorful combination of salt and pepper, dried rosemary, and dried thyme.

How to make air fryer flat iron steak

Before starting with the steak, take it out of the fridge and let it sit on your kitchen counter for about 20 minutes. This step ensures the steak isn't too cold, which will help it cook evenly later on.

While waiting, you can prepare a tasty marinade. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chopped garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Stir everything until it's nicely blended.

Once the steak has rested, it's time to flavor it. Rub the marinade you just prepared all over the steak, ensuring both sides are well-coated. This not only adds a delightful taste but also helps the steak to cook perfectly in the air fryer.

olive oil, chopped garlic and seasonings in a small bowl

Speaking of the air fryer, you'll want to get it ready next. Plug it in, turn it on, and set the temperature to 400°F. Let it warm up for a few minutes. When it's hot and ready, place the marinated steak inside the cooking basket and let it cook for about 6-7 minutes.

After this time, open the air fryer and use tongs to flip the steak over. Let it cook for another 6-7 minutes if you prefer your steak medium-rare. However, if you like it more cooked, you might want to leave it in a bit longer.

To be sure your steak is cooked just the way you like it, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak. A reading between 130-135°F indicates it's medium-rare, while a temperature between 140-145°F means it's medium.

seasoned piece of red meat on white cutting board

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After you're satisfied with how it's cooked, remove the steak from the air fryer and place it on a plate or cutting board. Even though you might be eager to dig in, let it sit for about 10 minutes.

This patience will be rewarded with a juicier steak. When you're ready, slice the steak, making sure to cut against its natural grain. This method ensures the slices are tender and easy to chew. Once done, you can serve and enjoy your delicious air-fried flat iron steak.

two pieces of raw flat iron steak in air fryer before cooking

Frequently asked questions

Is flat iron steak tender?

Yes, when you cook it properly. The majority of the meat is very tender with nice marbling. But there isn't a tremendous amount of fat, so it can overcook quickly.

Why is my flat iron steak tough?

This cut can tend to be tougher than others if not cooked just right. That's because it is lean with not much fat, and typically flat iron steaks have thicker connective tissue running through them. If the meat is overcooked those fibers toughen up, resulting in a harsh chewy texture.

How do I make this recipe on the stovetop?

You can cook flat iron steak in a skillet, if you prefer! Season the meat and add the oil to a hot medium-high skillet. Sear the steaks for 6-8 minutes, flip once, and cook for another 6-8 minutes to reach your desired doneness.

Is flat iron steak the same as flank steak?

No, these are two entirely different cuts of beef. The flank steak comes from the underside of the cow, and is quite lean. Flat iron steak, on the other hand, is cut from the shoulder area. It has a bit more fat marbling, and therefore tends to be more tender and juicy.

Is flat iron a good steak?

It is one of the best steaks! They have a nice amount of fat and not too much tough muscle. It's also readily available at most grocery stores, so flat iron steak is the trifecta of affordable, easy to cook, and delicious.

Is cooking steak in air fryer good?

In fact the air fryer is GREAT for cooking a steak! Like your favorite fried foods, when cooked in the air fryer steaks get that beautiful golden brown outside... But the inside of the meat stays juicy and tender. Plus, you are practically guaranteed to get an even cook.

Do I need to sear steak before air frying?

No, there is no searing or precooking needed. Simply place the raw meat right into the fry basket and cook according the the recipe steps.

sliced flat iron steak cooked in air fryer with chopped cilantro on top

Side dishes

Green Salad: Grab a bag of mixed salad greens from the store. Toss them in a bowl with your favorite dressing. Add some cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers for extra crunch.

Frozen Veggies: Pick up a bag of frozen veggies like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. Heat them in the microwave, then toss with a little butter and salt.

Baked Potato: Poke some holes in a potato with a fork. Microwave it for about 5-7 minutes or until soft. Cut it open, and add butter, cheese, or sour cream.

Quick Coleslaw: Buy a bag of coleslaw mix. Add some store-bought coleslaw dressing, mix, and it's ready!

White rice: A bowl of rice goes so well with any protein and will be perfect with this air fryer flat iron steak.

Expert tips

Thickness Matters: Flat iron steaks vary in thickness. Thicker cuts may require slightly longer cooking times. Always check for desired doneness with a meat thermometer.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the steak. A preheated environment ensures the steak sears quickly, retaining its juices.
Thinly Slice Against the Grain: When serving, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This method ensures the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 149°C) in the air fryer to prevent overcooking.

air fryer flat iron steak with chopped cilantro on top

Storage suggestions

After the steak is cooked and has cooled down, put it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator.

If you're planning to keep it for more than a few days, consider freezing it for longer storage. Always reheat before eating. You can do it in the air fryer or in microwave.

Air Fryer Flat Iron Steak

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Additional Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 37 minutes

This air fryer flat iron steak recipe is the best quick and easy way to cook fork-tender and juicy steaks to your perfect degree of doneness in under 15 minutes. No need to marinate!

Ingredients

1 ½ lb flat iron steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper each
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 teaspoon thyme

Instructions

Let your flat iron steak rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme in a bowl. Coat both sides of the steak with the mixture.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place the steak in the basket, cook for 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for desired doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium), let it rest for 10 minutes, slice against the grain, and serve.

Notes

Thickness Matters: Flat iron steaks vary in thickness. Thicker cuts may require slightly longer cooking times. Always check for desired internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the steak. A preheated environment ensures the steak sears quickly, retaining its juices.

Thinly Slice Against the Grain: When serving, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This method ensures the meat is tender and easy to chew.

Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 149°C) in the air fryer to prevent overcooking.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 441Total Fat: 29gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 141mgSodium: 205mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 43g