Juicy Air Fryer Porterhouse Steak Recipe: Easy, Bold & Delicious
Porterhouse steak is a luxurious, thick-cut steak that includes both the tenderloin and strip steak.
It’s perfect for those who want the best of both worlds in one impressive cut.
Cooking it in an air fryer allows for precise temperature control, creating a golden crust and a juicy center without the need for a grill or cast-iron skillet.
With just olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few seasonings, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality porterhouse steak right at home.
Preparation Summary
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mins | 15 mins | 20 mins | Main Course | Western | 1-2 |
Ingredients (with Alternatives)
| Ingredient | 1 Steak (12-16 oz) | Alternatives |
| Porterhouse steak | 1 | T-bone or ribeye |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Avocado oil, melted butter |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Sea salt or kosher salt |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Crushed white pepper |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | Minced garlic or onion powder |
| Fresh rosemary (optional) | 1 sprig | Thyme or dried Italian herbs |
Cooking Instruments Needed
| Instrument | Alternatives |
| Air fryer | Convection oven with air fryer mode |
| Tongs | Fork or spatula |
| Meat thermometer | Manual finger press method |
| Small bowl (for rub) | Ziplock bag |
How to Make Porterhouse Steak in Air Fryer
Cooking a porterhouse steak in an air fryer is straightforward and delivers amazing results with less mess and more control.
This method helps seal in juices, creates a savory crust, and keeps the center tender and flavorful. Follow these detailed steps to get the most out of your steak.
Step 1: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Take the porterhouse steak out of the refrigerator and let it rest on the counter for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook evenly and prevents a cold, underdone center.
Step 2: Pat Dry and Season the Steak
Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the steak dry on all sides. Dry meat will sear better. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Rub this mixture evenly over the steak, including along the bone and fat cap. Add chopped rosemary if desired for an herbal aroma.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak begins cooking immediately upon placement and helps develop a good sear.
Step 4: Arrange Steak in Basket
Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure it lies flat and isn’t folded or bunched. Leave space around it so hot air can circulate properly.
If your air fryer is small, cook one steak at a time.
Step 5: Cook the Steak
Air fry the steak at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For medium-rare: cook for 10 minutes (internal temp ~130°F)
- For medium: cook for 12 minutes (internal temp ~140°F) Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the strip side to check for doneness.
Step 6: Let the Steak Rest
Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5–7 minutes. This step is essential for letting the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.
Serving and Decoration Tips
- Slice the steak off the bone and fan out the tenderloin and strip cuts separately.
- Top with compound butter (e.g., garlic and parsley) while the steak rests.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for presentation.
Variations to Try
- Garlic-Herb Butter Finish: Mix butter with minced garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. Place a pat on the steak just before serving.
- Balsamic Marinade: Marinate the steak in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and crushed garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spicy Cajun Rub: Replace garlic powder with a Cajun spice blend to add some heat and smokiness.
- Blue Cheese Crust: After air frying, top the steak with blue cheese crumbles and broil for 1–2 minutes until melted.
Storing Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in foil and place in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Use the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or reheat gently in a skillet with a lid.
Extra Tips
- Always rest the steak before slicing to retain juices.
- Use a thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
- Flip only once during cooking to maintain juices.
Common Mistakes, Solutions & Prevention
| Mistake | Solution | Prevention Tip |
| Steak too dry | Rest after cooking | Don’t overcook; use thermometer |
| Uneven cooking | Flip halfway through | Bring to room temp before cooking |
| No crust | Dry steak before seasoning | Preheat air fryer |
| Sticking to basket | Spray basket with oil | Use parchment or grill rack if needed |
FAQs
Can I cook a frozen porterhouse steak in the air fryer?
Yes, but add 5–7 minutes and flip more often. Thawed steaks cook more evenly.
How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F, and for medium, 140°F.
Should I use oil in the air fryer?
Yes, lightly oil the steak or spray the basket to promote searing and prevent sticking.
What size air fryer is best for porterhouse steak?
Use a larger basket model or cook one steak at a time to ensure even airflow.
Let’s Make and Share
Now that you know how to air fry a perfect porterhouse steak, it’s time to try it out. Follow the recipe, try a fun variation, and share your delicious results with others.
Happy cooking!
