Tender & Juicy Air Fryer Flank Steak
This tender and juicy Air Fryer Flank Steak proves that you don’t need an outdoor grill for a fantastic taco filling.
By using a quick baking soda trick and a flavorful marinade, you can transform a naturally lean cut into a sizzling, savory dinner.
Watch the video below to see exactly how to prep, marinate, and air fry this steak for a delicious char.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cook Time: Once the steak is marinated, it air fries in just about 6 minutes.
- Tenderizing Trick: A brief baking soda treatment breaks down the tough fibers before cooking.
- Flavorful Char: Preheating the air fryer gives the meat a beautifully seared crust.
- Perfect for Tacos: The highly seasoned marinade makes this an ideal filling for steak tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs flank steak
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda (about ½ teaspoon per pound)
- ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- ⅓ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Pat the flank steak dry. Lightly sprinkle the baking soda over both sides. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes maximum.
- While the steak tenderizes, mix the marinade. In a zip-top bag, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and pepper.
- After the 15 to 20 minutes are up, thoroughly wash all the baking soda off the steak (this is crucial to avoid a funky taste).
- Pat the steak completely dry again, then place it into the bag with the marinade. Ensure it’s well coated and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to cook, preheat your air fryer on its highest temperature setting for 5 to 10 minutes so it gets nice and hot.
- Pull the steak out of the marinade. If your air fryer basket is small, cut the steak against the grain to fit. Pat off some of the excess liquid so the meat can sear properly.
- Place the steak in the hot air fryer basket. Cook at the highest temperature for 6 minutes.
- Check the steak and add more time only if needed.
- Remove the steak and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices can redistribute. Slice against the grain and serve.
Tips for the Best Results
Rinse thoroughly: Do not skip washing off the baking soda. If left on, it will give the meat an unpleasant flavor.
Pat the marinade dry: Wiping off excess moisture before placing the steak in the air fryer helps it get a charred edge instead of steaming.
Slice against the grain: Look for the long lines running down the meat and cut perpendicular to them for the most tender bite.
Don’t overcook: Lean flank steak can get chewy quickly. Start checking at the 6-minute mark.
