Easy and Juicy Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes

Picture this: tender, perfectly cooked steak paired with golden, crispy potatoes, all ready in just 25 minutes using your trusty air fryer. This air fryer steak and potatoes recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero!

Here’s a fun fact – air fryers can actually cook steak more evenly than traditional methods because of their powerful circulation system.

This dish is special because it combines two dinner favorites into one incredibly simple, family-friendly meal that requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor every single time.

What is Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes?

Ever wondered why this combo has become such a dinner sensation? Air fryer steak and potatoes is the perfect marriage of protein and carbs, cooked simultaneously in one appliance. It’s like having your own personal steakhouse right on your countertop!

The name might sound fancy, but it’s really just good old-fashioned comfort food made easy. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this recipe definitely delivers on that promise. Ready to impress your family tonight?

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes

The Ultimate Weeknight Winner

This air fryer steak and potatoes recipe transforms your ordinary Tuesday into something extraordinary. The air fryer creates a beautiful sear on the steak while keeping the inside perfectly juicy. Meanwhile, those potatoes get golden and crispy on the outside with fluffy, tender centers that practically melt in your mouth.

Budget-Friendly Luxury

Making air fryer steak and potatoes at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant. You’re looking at about $8-10 per serving compared to $25-30 at a steakhouse. Plus, you control the quality of ingredients and can customize everything to your family’s preferences.

Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

The secret lies in the simple seasoning blend that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. Fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of butter create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. If you enjoyed our popular air fryer chicken thighs recipe, you’ll absolutely love how this technique works with steak too. Time to fire up that air fryer and create some dinner magic!

How to Make Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes

Quick Overview

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The air fryer creates the perfect sear on the steak while simultaneously cooking the potatoes to golden perfection.

What makes this dish special:

Juicy, tender steak with beautiful caramelization
Crispy-outside, fluffy-inside potatoes
One-appliance cooking for easy cleanup
Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish

Total Time: 25 minutes Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4 people

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes

For the Steak:

4 ribeye or sirloin steaks (6-8 oz each, 1-inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Potatoes:

2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and halving the baby potatoes. In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure every potato piece is well-coated with the seasoning mixture. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Season the Steaks

Pat the steaks completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil all over both sides of each steak, then generously season with the spice mixture. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 5 minutes while you start the potatoes.

Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The potatoes should be golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Cook the Steaks

Remove the potatoes and set aside. Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 4-5 minutes per side for medium. The internal temperature should reach 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.

Step 5: Rest and Finish

Remove the steaks from the air fryer and immediately top each with a pat of butter and a sprig of fresh thyme. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Meanwhile, return the potatoes to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to reheat and crisp up.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the air fryer steak and potatoes on serving plates. Sprinkle the potatoes with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while everything is hot and delicious.

What to Serve Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes With

This hearty air fryer steak and potatoes pairs beautifully with several complementary dishes. A crisp Caesar salad adds fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich, savory main course. Roasted asparagus or green beans provide a healthy, colorful vegetable component that balances the meal perfectly.

For beverages, consider a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the steak’s robust flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or a rich iced tea works wonderfully.

Don’t forget about sauces! A dollop of garlic herb butter, classic steak sauce, or even a simple chimichurri can elevate this dish from great to extraordinary.

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Steak and Potatoes

Choose the Right Cut

Select steaks that are at least 1-inch thick for the best results. Ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip work exceptionally well in the air fryer. Thinner cuts tend to overcook quickly and become tough.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and prevents that beautiful golden sear you’re after.

Use a Meat Thermometer

For perfect doneness every time, invest in a good instant-read thermometer. Remember that the steak will continue cooking slightly while resting, so remove it 5 degrees before your target temperature.

Let Potatoes Dry

After washing, pat the potatoes completely dry before seasoning. Excess moisture prevents proper crisping and can make them soggy.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food. This ensures even cooking from the moment your ingredients hit the basket.

Don’t Skip the Resting Time

Allow steaks to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This redistributes the juices and ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover air fryer steak and potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the steak and potatoes separate to maintain the best texture and flavor for each component.

Freezing Instructions: While the potatoes freeze well for up to 3 months, cooked steak is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze steak, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Guidelines: For best results, reheat steak and potatoes separately. For steak, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through. For potatoes, air fry at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Meal Prep Tips: This air fryer steak and potatoes recipe works great for meal prep. Cook everything as directed, then store in portion-sized containers. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator as the seasonings have time to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen baby potatoes, but add 3-4 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning for the best results.

What if my steaks are different thicknesses?

Adjust cooking times accordingly. Thicker steaks need more time, while thinner ones cook faster. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness regardless of thickness.

Can I cook other vegetables with the potatoes?

Absolutely! Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers all work well. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetable’s density and your preferred doneness.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F; for medium, 140°F; and for medium-well, 150°F.

Can I marinate the steak beforehand?

Yes, marinating for 2-4 hours can add extra flavor. However, pat the steak dry before air frying to ensure proper searing and avoid excess moisture in the basket.