Easy Way to Cook Shaved Steak in the Air Fryer
Shaved steak is a thinly sliced cut of beef that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
In this recipe, we’re preparing it in the air fryer, a fast and convenient method that results in juicy, tender pieces of steak with crispy edges.
You’ll need simple ingredients like thinly shaved beef, olive oil, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Some people also like adding Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder for a flavor boost.
Once marinated, the beef cooks evenly in the air fryer in just a few minutes. The main part is to spread it out evenly and avoid overcrowding.
Let’s walk through everything step by step.
Cooking Time & Details
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 8 minutes | 18 minutes | Main | American | 2–4 people |
Ingredients (With Alternatives)
| Ingredient | 2 Servings | 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaved beef steak | 200g | 400g | Shaved chicken, tofu strips |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Avocado oil, vegetable oil |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Seasoned salt |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | ½ tsp | White pepper |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Fresh onions (finely minced) |
| Worcestershire sauce (optional) | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar |
Required Cooking Tools
| Tool | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Air fryer (basket type preferred) | Oven-style air fryer |
| Mixing bowl | Ziplock bag |
| Kitchen tongs | Fork or spatula |
| Spray oil bottle | Brush with oil |
How Long to Cook Shaved Steak in the Air Fryer?
Cooking shaved steak in an air fryer varies slightly depending on the type of air fryer and how well-done you want your meat.
- Basket-style Air Fryer:
These cook hotter and quicker due to better airflow.- Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
- Time: 6–8 minutes
- Reason: I prefer this method because it crisps the edges while keeping the inside juicy.
- Oven-style Air Fryer:
These require a slightly higher temperature and longer time.- Temperature: 400°F (204°C)
- Time: 8–10 minutes
- Reason: The tray is further from the heat source, so this adjustment ensures even cooking.
- Dual-basket Air Fryers:
Cooking time and temp are similar to basket-type, but make sure both sides are cooking evenly. Flip halfway.
Always shake or flip the steak halfway to avoid sticking and to get even crisping.
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
Before we start, make sure the meat is thinly shaved and not clumped together. Now, let’s get into the steps:
Step 1: Prep the Meat
Place the shaved steak into a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and add the salt, pepper, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
Mix it well with your hands or tongs, making sure every piece is coated evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (or 400°F if using oven-style) for about 3 minutes. This helps the meat start cooking immediately for better texture.
Step 3: Place Steak in Basket
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Spread the meat out in a single layer.
Don’t overcrowd it. If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches.
Step 4: Cook and Flip
Cook the meat at the set temperature for 4 minutes. Pause and use tongs to flip or shake the basket.
Return it and cook for another 3–4 minutes or until the edges are browned and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the steak and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This resting time lets the juices settle into the meat.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve it over toasted hoagie rolls for an easy Philly-style sandwich.
- Pair with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melted cheese.
- Add the meat over rice bowls or pasta for variety.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or a dash of chili flakes for extra visual appeal and taste.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Garlic Shaved Steak: Add minced garlic and chili powder before cooking.
- BBQ Style: Replace Worcestershire with BBQ sauce and a dash of smoked paprika.
- Asian-inspired: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of grated ginger.
- Cheese Melt: After cooking, place steak in a small oven-proof dish, top with mozzarella or provolone, and air fry for 1 minute more.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, return to air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until warm.
- You can also microwave but expect a softer texture.
Extra Tips That Help
- If your meat is sticking together, separate them before cooking for even browning.
- Don’t add too much oil. A light coating is enough.
- For more intense flavor, marinate the shaved steak for 1–2 hours before air frying.
- Line the air fryer basket with perforated parchment for easier cleanup.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dry steak | Overcooked or too little oil | Cook for less time and use a light oil coating |
| Meat sticking together | Not separated properly | Break it apart before cooking |
| Undercooked center | Overcrowding | Cook in batches and don’t stack meat |
| Bland taste | Insufficient seasoning | Use proper salt, spices, and optional sauces |
More Cooking Info for This Recipe
- For best results, always preheat your air fryer.
- Use thinner shavings for quicker cooking.
- You can cook frozen shaved steak directly — increase cooking time by 2–3 minutes and flip halfway.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen shaved steak directly?
Yes, just separate the pieces and increase cooking time by a few minutes. Don’t forget to shake halfway.
What meat is best for shaved steak?
Ribeye and sirloin are most common. Flank steak can work too but may be tougher.
Can I make this without oil?
You can, but adding a little oil improves browning and taste.
What is shaved steak used for?
It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, rice bowls, or even tacos.
Should I marinate the steak?
It’s optional, but even a 15-minute marination boosts flavor.
Let’s Make and Share!
Now you know how to cook shaved steak in air fryer easily and efficiently. Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out or if you added your own twist!
