How long should you cook a porterhouse steak in an air fryer? The ideal air fryer porterhouse steak time depends on the thickness of the steak and your preferred air fryer steak doneness levels. Generally, it takes about 8-15 minutes to cook a porterhouse steak in an air fryer, flipping halfway through, aiming for an air fryer steak internal temperature that matches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking a steakhouse-quality porterhouse at home can feel intimidating. But with the right technique, and especially with the help of an air fryer, you can achieve perfect porterhouse steak air fryer results every time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking porterhouse steak in air fryer, from preparation to achieving your desired doneness, making it the best air fryer steak recipe porterhouse you’ll find.
Image Source: www.inspirationalmomma.com
Why Use an Air Fryer for Porterhouse Steak?
The air fryer’s magic lies in its rapid air circulation, mimicking the effect of deep frying but without the oil. This translates to several benefits when cooking porterhouse steak in air fryer:
- Even Cooking: Hot air surrounds the steak, cooking it evenly on all sides.
- Crispy Exterior: The high heat creates a beautiful, flavorful crust.
- Faster Cooking Time: Air fryers preheat quickly and cook faster than traditional ovens.
- Less Mess: No splattering oil or greasy pans to clean up.
- Convenience: Easy to use and maintain.
Choosing the Perfect Porterhouse Steak
The foundation of any great steak is the quality of the meat. When selecting your porterhouse, consider the following:
- Marbling: Look for abundant marbling (flecks of fat within the muscle). This fat renders during cooking, adding flavor and moisture.
- Thickness: Aim for a steak that’s at least 1.5 inches thick. This will allow you to achieve a good sear without overcooking the inside.
- Color: The steak should have a vibrant red color. Avoid steaks that look brown or dull.
- Source: Opt for high-quality beef from a reputable butcher or grocery store. Grass-fed or prime cuts will generally offer better flavor and texture.
Preparing Your Porterhouse for the Air Fryer
Proper preparation is key to a delicious air fryer porterhouse steak.
- Thawing: If your steak is frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours.
- Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the steak dry. This helps achieve a better sear.
- Seasoning: Generously season the steak on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be afraid to use a lot of seasoning – it will create a flavorful crust. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or your favorite steak rub.
- Optional Marinade: While not essential, a marinade can add extra flavor and tenderize the steak. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Be sure to pat the steak dry after removing it from the marinade.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the seasoned steak to sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
Porterhouse Air Fryer Cooking Instructions: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps for amazing results:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. This prevents the steak from sticking.
- Place Steak: Place the porterhouse steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. If necessary, cook the steaks in batches.
- Cook: Cook for the recommended time (see air fryer porterhouse steak cooking chart below), flipping halfway through.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone.
- Rest: Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Air Fryer Steak Temperature Guide & Cooking Times
Achieving the right doneness is crucial for a perfect porterhouse. Use this air fryer steak temperature guide as a reference:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Approximate Air Fryer Porterhouse Steak Time (per side, 1.5″ thick steak) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125-130°F (52-54°C) | 4-5 minutes |
| Medium Rare | 130-140°F (54-60°C) | 5-6 minutes |
| Medium | 140-150°F (60-66°C) | 6-7 minutes |
| Medium Well | 150-160°F (66-71°C) | 7-8 minutes |
| Well Done | 160°F+ (71°C+) | 8-10 minutes |
Note: These times are approximate and may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the steak. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness. If you are wondering how long to air fry thick porterhouse steak, add approximately 1-2 minutes per side for steaks thicker than 1.5 inches.
Air Fryer Porterhouse Steak Cooking Chart (Approximate Times)
Here’s a quick reference air fryer porterhouse steak cooking chart for different doneness levels, assuming a 1.5-inch thick steak cooked at 400°F (200°C):
| Doneness | Total Cooking Time (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium Rare | 10-12 minutes |
| Medium | 12-14 minutes |
| Medium Well | 14-16 minutes |
| Well Done | 16-20 minutes |
Tips for a Juicy and Tender Air Fryer Porterhouse
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking the steak in batches ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the most accurate way to determine doneness.
- Let it Rest: Resting the steak is crucial for a juicy and tender result. Don’t skip this step!
- Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different. Adjust the cooking time based on your model and experience.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Try different herbs, spices, and rubs to find your favorite flavor combination.
Serving Suggestions
A perfectly cooked air fryer porterhouse steak deserves equally delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or potatoes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing.
- Salad: A fresh salad provides a light and refreshing contrast.
- Sauce: Serve with your favorite steak sauce, such as Béarnaise, chimichurri, or peppercorn sauce.
Variations & Creative Twists
While the classic method is delicious, don’t be afraid to experiment with variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Top the steak with a pat of garlic herb butter during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon Wrapped: Wrap the steak in bacon before cooking for added flavor and crispiness.
- Blackened Seasoning: Use a blackened seasoning blend for a spicy and smoky flavor.
- Compound Butter: Create a flavorful compound butter with herbs, garlic, and spices to melt over the steak after cooking.
Deciphering Common Air Fryer Steak Mistakes
Several common mistakes can hinder your quest for perfect porterhouse steak air fryer. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Not Preheating: Preheating the air fryer is essential for achieving a good sear.
- Overcrowding the Basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, resulting in uneven cooking.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. A generous coating of salt and pepper is key.
- Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the steak.
- Skipping the Rest: Resting the steak is crucial for juicy and tender results.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer
The type of air fryer can influence cooking times and overall results. Here are some factors to consider:
- Size: Choose an air fryer large enough to accommodate your porterhouse steak without overcrowding.
- Power: Higher wattage air fryers generally cook faster.
- Features: Look for features like temperature control and a timer.
- Type: Basket-style and oven-style air fryers both work well for steak. Experiment to see which you prefer.
The Best Air Fryer Steak Recipe Porterhouse: A Recap
To ensure you consistently create a great porterhouse steak in your air fryer, remember these key points:
- Quality Steak: Start with a well-marbled, thick-cut porterhouse.
- Proper Prep: Thaw completely, pat dry, and season generously.
- Precise Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature.
- Rest is Key: Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different seasonings and variations.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently cook a juicy and flavorful porterhouse steak in your air fryer every time. Say goodbye to expensive steakhouse meals and hello to restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen steak in the air fryer? While it’s best to use thawed steak, you can cook frozen steak in the air fryer. However, the cooking time will be significantly longer, and it may not sear as well.
- What is the ideal thickness for a porterhouse steak cooked in the air fryer? Aim for a steak that is at least 1.5 inches thick to achieve a good sear without overcooking the inside.
- Do I need to flip the steak while cooking in the air fryer? Yes, flipping the steak halfway through cooking ensures even cooking on both sides.
- How do I know when the steak is done? The best way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Refer to the air fryer steak temperature guide above.
- Why is my steak tough after cooking in the air fryer? Overcooking is the most common cause of tough steak. Be sure to use a meat thermometer and avoid cooking the steak beyond your desired doneness. Letting the steak rest before slicing is also important.
- What type of oil should I use to grease the air fryer basket? Any high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil, will work well.
- How long should I marinate the steak before cooking? Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Should I trim the fat off the porterhouse steak before cooking? No, don’t trim the fat. The fat renders during cooking, adding flavor and moisture. You can trim excess fat after cooking, if desired.
- My air fryer doesn’t have a 400°F setting. What temperature should I use? Use the closest setting to 400°F (200°C). You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Is there any need for special equipment for cooking Porterhouse in an Air fryer? Aside from the air fryer, consider using a meat thermometer for accurate doneness and tongs for easy handling of the steak.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer porterhouse steak!
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.