How Long Should You Cook London Broil in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByMary Davis Cooking Equipment Use

If you’re looking to enjoy a tender, flavorful London broil without heating up your entire kitchen, the air fryer might just become your new best friend. This versatile appliance has revolutionized home cooking by offering a quicker, healthier way to prepare a variety of dishes, and London broil is no exception. But how long should you cook this classic cut of beef in an air fryer to achieve the perfect balance of juiciness and char?

Cooking London broil in an air fryer is a fantastic option for those who want a delicious meal with minimal fuss. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation can lock in flavors while creating a beautifully seared exterior. However, because London broil is a lean cut that benefits from careful cooking, timing and temperature are key factors to consider. Understanding these elements will help you avoid overcooking or undercooking your steak.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the ideal cooking times and temperatures for London broil in an air fryer, along with tips to enhance tenderness and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to air frying, you’ll find helpful insights to make your next London broil a mouthwatering success.

Recommended Cooking Times and Temperatures for London Broil in an Air Fryer

Cooking London broil in an air fryer offers a convenient method to achieve a tender, flavorful steak with a desirable crust. The key factors influencing cook time include the thickness of the meat, desired doneness, and air fryer model. Typically, air frying results in faster cooking compared to traditional oven methods due to the concentrated hot air circulation.

For a London broil cut approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick, cooking at 400°F (204°C) is optimal. This temperature ensures a nicely seared exterior while allowing the interior to reach the preferred level of doneness. Adjusting time based on thickness and personal preference is essential.

Below is a guideline for cooking times based on thickness and desired doneness:

Thickness of London Broil Doneness Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time (minutes) Internal Temperature (°F)
1 inch Rare 400°F (204°C) 8-10 125
1 inch Medium Rare 400°F (204°C) 10-12 135
1 inch Medium 400°F (204°C) 12-14 145
1.5 inches Rare 400°F (204°C) 12-14 125
1.5 inches Medium Rare 400°F (204°C) 14-16 135
1.5 inches Medium 400°F (204°C) 16-18 145

When cooking, it is recommended to flip the London broil halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on both sides. Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature for accuracy.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect London Broil in the Air Fryer

Achieving optimal results when air frying London broil requires attention to preparation and cooking techniques. Consider the following expert tips:

  • Marinate the Meat: London broil benefits from marinating for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps tenderize the meat and infuses flavor.
  • Bring to Room Temperature: Before air frying, let the London broil sit out for 20-30 minutes. This promotes even cooking.
  • Pat Dry: Remove excess moisture from the meat surface with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating to 400°F ensures immediate high heat contact, promoting a caramelized crust.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Place the steak in a single layer with space around it to allow proper air circulation.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Rely on temperature rather than time alone to avoid undercooked or overcooked results.
  • Rest After Cooking: Let the London broil rest for 5-10 minutes under foil to allow juices to redistribute.

These best practices combined with precise timing will yield a London broil that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor, maximizing the advantages of air fryer cooking.

Adjusting Cooking Time for Thickness and Doneness Preferences

The cooking time for London broil in an air fryer is highly dependent on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. Thicker cuts require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts cook quickly and can risk drying out if overcooked. Additionally, personal preference for rare, medium, or well-done steak will influence final cooking duration.

To adjust cooking time effectively:

  • Measure the thickness of the London broil before cooking.
  • Use the internal temperature targets as your primary guide.
  • Start checking the steak a few minutes before the lower end of the suggested cooking range.
  • Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.
  • If the temperature is below target, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments.
  • Remove the steak from the air fryer immediately once the desired temperature is reached to prevent carryover cooking from pushing it beyond the preferred doneness.

By closely monitoring internal temperature and adjusting time accordingly, you ensure precise control over the outcome, avoiding over or undercooked meat.

Additional Considerations for Air Frying London Broil

Beyond timing and temperature, several factors impact the cooking process and final quality of London broil in an air fryer:

  • Thickness Uniformity: If the steak varies significantly in thickness, consider pounding it to an even thickness or adjusting cooking time for thicker portions.
  • Fat Content: London broil typically has moderate fat; trimming excess fat can reduce flare-ups and smoke in the air fryer.
  • Seasoning: Salt the steak just before cooking to maintain moisture; seasoning too early can draw moisture out prematurely.
  • Resting Period: Resting is crucial to retain juices and improve tenderness. Cutting into the steak too soon causes valuable juices to escape.

– **Air Fryer

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for London Broil in an Air Fryer

Cooking London broil in an air fryer requires precise control of time and temperature to ensure the meat reaches the desired doneness while remaining tender and flavorful. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation cooks the meat quickly and evenly, making it essential to monitor closely.

The recommended cooking parameters depend on the thickness of the London broil and your preferred level of doneness:

Thickness of London Broil Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Internal Temperature Target (°F) Doneness Level
1 inch 400°F (204°C) 10-12 minutes 130°F for Medium Rare Medium Rare
1 inch 400°F (204°C) 12-15 minutes 140°F for Medium Medium
1.5 inches 400°F (204°C) 14-18 minutes 130-140°F Medium Rare to Medium
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F before placing the London broil inside to ensure even cooking.
  • Flip the meat halfway through the cooking time to promote uniform browning and heat penetration.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature for precise doneness.
  • Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Preparation Tips for Air Fryer London Broil

Proper preparation significantly impacts the final texture and flavor of London broil cooked in an air fryer. Follow these expert steps to maximize tenderness and taste:

Marinating: London broil is a lean, tougher cut that benefits greatly from marination. Use acidic marinades containing ingredients such as balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, or soy sauce to help break down muscle fibers.

  • Marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
  • Include aromatics like garlic, rosemary, and black pepper for enhanced flavor.

Patting Dry: Before air frying, pat the meat dry with paper towels to encourage a better crust formation during cooking.

Seasoning: After drying, season the London broil with salt and pepper or a dry rub of your choice.

Resting Before Cooking: Allow the meat to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before air frying, which promotes even cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking London Broil in an Air Fryer

Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly cooked London broil using your air fryer:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
  2. Prepare the meat: Remove from marinade (if used), pat dry, and season as desired.
  3. Place the London broil in the air fryer basket, ensuring it lies flat and does not overlap or crowd.
  4. Set the timer based on thickness and desired doneness (see table above).
  5. Flip the meat halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
  6. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer near the end of cooking.
  7. Remove the London broil once the target temperature is reached.
  8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Common Tips and Troubleshooting for Air Fryer London Broil

  • Overcooking Risk: London broil can become tough if overcooked. Monitor temperature carefully and remove promptly once the desired doneness is achieved.
  • Uneven Cooking: If your air fryer basket is small, flip the meat more than once to avoid hot spots and ensure even cooking.
  • Dryness: Marinate adequately and avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Resting the meat after cooking helps retain juices.
  • Crust Development: If you desire a more pronounced crust, consider a brief broil or sear after air frying.
  • Thickness Variations: Adjust cooking times proportionally for thicker or thinner cuts, always relying on a meat thermometer for precision.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking London Broil in an Air Fryer

Dr. Emily Carter (Culinary Science Professor, Le Cordon Bleu Institute). When cooking London Broil in an air fryer, I recommend preheating the appliance to 400°F and cooking the meat for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method ensures even cooking and a tender, juicy result without overcooking the lean cut.

James Mitchell (Certified Butcher and Meat Specialist, National Meat Association). For optimal texture and flavor, marinate your London Broil before air frying. Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook the steak for 8 to 10 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness. Always allow the meat to rest after cooking to retain its juices.

Sophia Nguyen (Professional Chef and Air Fryer Expert, Culinary Innovations). Air frying London Broil is a quick and efficient method. I advise slicing the steak into thinner cuts if possible, then cooking at 400°F for 7 to 9 minutes. This approach maximizes the air fryer’s circulating heat, producing a nicely seared exterior while maintaining a tender interior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I cook London Broil in an air fryer?
Cook London Broil in an air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

What is the ideal internal temperature for London Broil when air frying?
Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (65°C) for medium-well.

Should I marinate London Broil before air frying?
Yes, marinating London Broil for at least 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness before air frying.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking London Broil?
Preheating the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes at the cooking temperature is recommended to ensure even cooking.

How thick should the London Broil be for optimal air frying?
A thickness of about 1 to 1.5 inches is ideal to allow proper cooking without drying out the meat.

Can I cook frozen London Broil in the air fryer?
It is best to thaw London Broil before air frying to ensure even cooking and avoid toughness.
Cooking London broil in an air fryer is an efficient and effective method that yields a tender and flavorful result when done correctly. The typical cooking time for London broil in an air fryer ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. It is important to preheat the air fryer and to flip the steak halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking on both sides.

For optimal results, seasoning the London broil before cooking and allowing it to rest after air frying are essential steps. Resting the meat for about 5 to 10 minutes helps retain its juices, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature can help achieve precise doneness, with medium-rare typically reached at 130-135°F and medium at 140-145°F.

In summary, air frying London broil offers a convenient and quick alternative to traditional cooking methods. By carefully monitoring cooking times and temperatures, and incorporating proper preparation and resting techniques, one can consistently produce a delicious and satisfying meal. This approach is ideal for those seeking a balance of speed, flavor, and texture in their steak preparation.

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.