Air Fryer Swordfish Steaks: A Simple Way to Cook It Perfectly
Swordfish steaks are meaty, firm, and easy to cook, making them ideal for air frying. The process is straightforward.
Coat the fish with a little olive oil, season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice.
This method helps the fish develop a slightly crispy edge while staying juicy inside.
Using simple ingredients like paprika or even a dash of chili flakes can enhance the flavor. No deep frying, no complex prep—just clean, flavorful fish in minutes using your air fryer.
Cooking Time and Recipe Info
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | Main | American | 2 |
Ingredients List
| Ingredients | For 2 Servings | For 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swordfish Steaks | 2 (6 oz each) | 4 (6 oz each) | Tuna or Salmon steaks |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Avocado oil |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Lime juice |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Minced fresh garlic |
| Black Pepper & Salt | To taste | To taste | Sea salt, white pepper |
Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Description | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | Any basket or tray model | Convection oven |
| Brush | To coat with oil | Spoon or hands |
| Tongs | For flipping steaks | Spatula |
How Long to Cook Swordfish Steaks in Air Fryer
Swordfish cooks quickly due to its firm, lean texture. For best results, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 9–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Basket Air Fryer: 400°F for 9–10 minutes
- Tray Air Fryer: 390°F for 11–12 minutes (rotate tray once)
- Dual Zone Air Fryer: 400°F in meat/fish setting, cook 8–9 minutes
I prefer cooking at 400°F in my basket model because it helps the outside slightly crisp while the inside remains moist and flaky.
How to Make Air Fryer Swordfish Steaks
Before starting, make sure the swordfish steaks are thawed and patted dry. A quick rub of oil and spices can make all the difference.
Step 1: Pat and Prep the Fish
Use a paper towel to dry each steak. This helps the seasoning stick better and prevents sogginess.
Step 2: Oil and Season
Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil. Sprinkle on garlic powder, salt, pepper, and drizzle lemon juice on top.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer at 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Swordfish
Place the steaks in a single layer in the basket. Avoid stacking. Cook for 9–10 minutes total, flipping halfway through for even searing.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a fork or thermometer—internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). It should flake easily with a fork.
How to Serve and Decorate
- Add fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley on top
- Serve with garlic butter, grilled asparagus, or air-fried potato slices
- A chilled cucumber salad pairs well with warm swordfish
Flavor Variations Worth Trying
- Spicy Cajun Style: Use Cajun seasoning instead of garlic powder
- Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce and ginger with oil before coating
- Herb Butter Crust: Mix herbs with softened butter and spread before air frying
These small changes can shift the flavor profile and keep meals interesting.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Freezing: Not recommended—swordfish can get rubbery after freezing
- Reheat: Use air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes
Extra Useful Tips
- Do not overcook—swordfish can dry out quickly
- Preheating the air fryer really helps get a better sear
- If steaks are too thick, slice in half for even cooking
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Why It Happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rubbery texture | Overcooked fish | Cook only until 145°F and check at 8 minutes |
| Soggy surface | Too much moisture on fish | Pat dry thoroughly before seasoning |
| Uneven browning | No flipping or overcrowded basket | Flip halfway and give space between steaks |
Helpful Tips for Air Frying Swordfish
- Always flip halfway to avoid one side being overcooked
- Use a silicone liner if your air fryer basket sticks
- Try marinating in lemon and garlic oil for 30 mins for extra flavor
FAQs
Can I cook frozen swordfish in the air fryer?
Yes, but extend cooking time to 13–15 minutes at 380°F. Still flip halfway.
What internal temp is safe for swordfish?
145°F (63°C). Check with a food-safe thermometer.
Do I need to marinate swordfish?
Not necessary, but a short 15–30 minute lemon-garlic marinade adds great flavor.
Why is my swordfish dry?
It was likely overcooked. Reduce cook time or use a meat thermometer.
Can I add breadcrumbs to swordfish steaks?
You can, but apply a light oil coat to help them crisp. Cook on parchment if adding crumbs.
Let’s Cook and Share the Flavor
Try this method on how to cook swordfish steaks in air fryer and see how easy and tasty it turns out.
If you’ve cooked this, let us know in the comments how it went and what flavors you added!
