Cooking steak from frozen delivers juicy, tender results without the hassle of defrosting or pan-frying. This quick air fryer method suits busy weeknights, turning a rushed dinner into a satisfying meal.

Simple Steps for Air Fryer Frozen Steak

Start with a frozen steak—no thawing required. Coat it evenly with neutral oil to help seasoning adhere and promote browning. Generously sprinkle salt on both sides.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the steak inside and cook for 14 to 16 minutes, flipping halfway through. Content creator @saucceats tested the technique and noted: “When I sliced into the steak, I was genuinely surprised. It wasn’t perfect, of course. The sear on one side, for example, wasn’t nearly as good as it could have been. It was quite delicious, though—delicious enough that I’m here writing about it for you. If you’ve ever forgotten to thaw a steak and need an unfussy solution, this hack is one worth knowing about.”

Expert Tips for Success

Food expert Kris Osborne highlights that this approach yields a decent steak quickly, ideal when perfection isn’t the goal. She stated: “This method won’t give you a steakhouse crust or the perfect rare or medium-rare center. It will make a decent steak and save you on a night when you forgot to defrost anything for dinner. And honestly? If it’s not the star of the show and you’re slicing it thin for tacos, tossing it in a burrito bowl, or throwing it on top of a salad, a perfect steak doesn’t matter. You’re getting quality protein fast. Ultimately, it’s delicious, and what it lacks in perfection, it easily makes up for in convenience.”

Select a steak about 1.5 inches thick to avoid overcooking thinner cuts. Adjust cooking times based on your air fryer—Osborne found 7 to 8 minutes per side perfect for medium doneness. Check doneness early to prevent overcooking, and use a meat thermometer for precision.