Juicy Air Fryer Steak Tips Recipe – Quick, Simple, and Flavorful
Making steak tips in the air fryer is a game-changer for busy weeknights or protein-packed meals.
All you need is some quality beef tips, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce for extra richness.
The air fryer locks in the juices, creating tender, seared bites with zero fuss. Let’s walk through the easy process and details for making this at home.
Preparation Summary
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 10–12 minutes | 20–22 minutes | Main | American | 2–4 |
Ingredients (Per Serving Options)
| Ingredient | For 2 Servings | For 4 Servings | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef steak tips | 1 lb | 2 lbs | Sirloin or ribeye cubes work well |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Can use avocado oil |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | 1 tsp | Or fresh minced garlic |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | To taste | Kosher salt preferred |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | Optional for deeper flavor |
Cooking Instruments Needed
| Tool | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Air fryer | Convection oven (with rack) |
| Tongs | Fork or spatula |
| Mixing bowl | Zip bag for marinating |
How Long to Cook Steak Tips in Air Fryer
- Medium-rare: 10 minutes at 400°F
- Medium: 11–12 minutes at 400°F
- Well-done: 13–14 minutes at 400°F
Flip halfway through for even browning. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
How to Make Air Fryer Steak Tips
These flavorful beef bites are perfect when you want a fast meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Follow the process below to get consistently juicy steak tips every time.
Step 1: Prep the Meat
Start by patting the steak tips dry with a paper towel. This helps develop a better sear. If your steak isn’t already cut into bite-sized pieces, trim and cube it now.
Step 2: Season Thoroughly
In a bowl, toss the beef tips with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce.
Mix well so every piece is coated. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and let it preheat for 4–5 minutes. Preheating helps form that nice crust on the outside.
Step 4: Air Fry the Steak Tips
I like mine cooked medium, so I go for 11–12 minutes at 400°F.
Spread the meat pieces in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overlapping. Cook for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even searing.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Transfer the cooked steak tips to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for locking in the juices.
Serving and Garnishing Tips
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or salad greens.
- Add a pat of garlic butter on top just before serving.
Variations to Try
- BBQ Style: Toss cooked steak tips in BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Asian-Style: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger in the marinade.
- Peppercorn Crust: Add coarsely crushed black pepper for a spicy edge.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction on top for sweet tanginess.
- Herb Blend: Mix rosemary, thyme, and oregano into your seasoning for an herby twist.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Use the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked steak tips for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Dry steak tips | Serve with sauce | Don’t overcook; rest after cooking |
| Uneven browning | Toss halfway | Avoid overcrowding the basket |
| Tough texture | Marinate longer | Choose a good cut like sirloin |
FAQs
Can I use frozen steak tips in the air fryer?
Yes, just add 3–5 extra minutes and season halfway through once thawed slightly.
Do I need to marinate steak tips?
Marinating improves flavor but isn’t required if seasoning is strong.
How do I know when steak tips are done?
Use a thermometer – medium doneness is around 140°F internal temperature.
What’s the best cut for steak tips?
Sirloin, ribeye, and tri-tip work best for tenderness and flavor.
Let’s Make and Share
Now you know exactly how to cook steak tips in the air fryer for a fast, juicy, and satisfying meal.
Try it your way and let others know what seasoning or sauce you added in the comments!
