How Do You Cook London Broil Perfectly in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

Looking to enjoy a tender, flavorful London Broil without firing up the grill or heating your entire kitchen? Cooking London Broil in an air fryer offers a quick, convenient, and surprisingly delicious way to prepare this classic cut of beef. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply want to experiment with a modern cooking method, the air fryer can transform this traditionally tough cut into a juicy, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Air frying London Broil combines high heat and circulating air to sear the meat evenly, locking in juices and enhancing its natural flavors. This technique not only speeds up the cooking process but also reduces the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier alternative to pan-frying or broiling. Plus, the air fryer’s compact size means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your perfectly cooked steak.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of preparing London Broil for the air fryer, including seasoning tips, ideal cooking times, and how to achieve the perfect level of doneness. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, mastering this method will elevate your weeknight dinners and impress guests alike.

Preparing and Marinating the London Broil

Before cooking London Broil in an air fryer, proper preparation and marination are essential to enhance flavor and tenderness. London Broil is typically a tougher cut, such as flank steak or top round, so marinating helps break down muscle fibers and infuse the meat with seasoning.

Start by trimming excess fat and silver skin from the meat to ensure even cooking. Then, choose a marinade that balances acidity and seasoning; common ingredients include:

  • Olive oil or another neutral oil
  • Acidic components such as balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, or red wine
  • Aromatics like garlic, onion, and fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
  • Spices including black pepper, paprika, and mustard

Marinate the steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, ensuring the meat is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to maximize flavor penetration.

Air Fryer Settings and Cooking Process

To cook London Broil in an air fryer effectively, follow these recommended settings and steps for optimal results:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the meat sears quickly, locking in juices.
  • Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off to avoid excess smoke.
  • Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Place the steak flat in the basket, ensuring it is not folded or overcrowded.
  • Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking times will vary depending on steak thickness and desired doneness.

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature to avoid overcooking:

Doneness Internal Temperature (°F) Approximate Cook Time (minutes)
Rare 120–125 8-9
Medium Rare 130–135 9-10
Medium 140–145 10-11
Medium Well 150–155 11-12
Well Done 160+ 12+

Resting and Serving the London Broil

Once cooked, it is critical to let the London Broil rest before slicing. Resting allows the meat fibers to reabsorb juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

  • Transfer the steak to a cutting board and loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
  • Allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes; this duration depends on the steak’s thickness.

When slicing, cut thin strips against the grain to maximize tenderness. The grain refers to the direction of the muscle fibers; cutting perpendicular shortens these fibers, making the meat easier to chew.

Consider serving with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the steak.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Maximize the quality of your air-fried London Broil by incorporating these expert tips:

  • Dry the steak before cooking: Patting the meat dry removes excess moisture, allowing for better browning and crust development in the air fryer.
  • Use a marinade with tenderizing enzymes: Ingredients like pineapple juice or papaya contain natural enzymes that help break down connective tissue.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket: This ensures hot air circulates evenly, producing a consistent cook.
  • Adjust seasoning after cooking: Salt and pepper can be added post-cooking to enhance flavor without drawing out moisture prematurely.
  • Experiment with finishing touches: A pat of herb butter or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish’s complexity.

By following these preparation and cooking strategies, you will achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful London Broil using your air fryer.

Preparing London Broil for the Air Fryer

Proper preparation is crucial to achieving a tender and flavorful London Broil when using an air fryer. Begin by selecting a London Broil cut, typically a top round steak, which benefits from marinating to enhance tenderness and taste.

Steps for preparation:

  • Trim excess fat: Remove any large fat deposits to prevent flare-ups and uneven cooking.
  • Marinate the meat: Use a marinade with acidic components like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine to break down muscle fibers. Include aromatics such as garlic, herbs, and soy sauce for depth of flavor.
  • Marinating time: Allow the meat to marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, refrigerated in a sealed container or plastic bag.
  • Bring to room temperature: Remove the marinated steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
  • Pat dry: Lightly pat the surface dry with paper towels to promote browning in the air fryer.

Season the London Broil with salt and freshly ground black pepper just before cooking to enhance its natural flavors without drawing out moisture prematurely.

Cooking London Broil in the Air Fryer

Cooking London Broil in an air fryer offers a faster and healthier alternative to traditional methods while still delivering a juicy interior and caramelized crust.

Step Instruction Details
Preheat Set air fryer to 400°F (204°C) Preheating ensures immediate searing and crust formation
Place steak Lay the London Broil flat in the air fryer basket Use a single layer without overlap for even cooking
Cook first side Air fry for 7-9 minutes Check for desired browning; adjust time based on thickness (typically 1-1.5 inches)
Flip steak Turn the steak over carefully Use tongs to avoid piercing the meat, which causes juice loss
Cook second side Air fry for another 7-9 minutes Monitor internal temperature to avoid overcooking

Internal temperature guidelines:

  • Rare: 125°F (52°C)
  • Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
  • Medium: 145°F (63°C)
  • Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
  • Well Done: 160°F (71°C)

Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to determine doneness. Remove the steak from the air fryer 5°F (3°C) below your target temperature, as residual heat will continue to cook the meat.

Resting and Serving London Broil

Resting the steak after air frying is essential to retain juices and improve tenderness.

  • Resting time: Cover the cooked London Broil loosely with aluminum foil and rest for 10 minutes.
  • Slice against the grain: Identify the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them to maximize tenderness.
  • Serving suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a flavorful chimichurri sauce to complement the robust flavor of the meat.

Proper resting and slicing techniques ensure a moist, tender final dish that showcases the benefits of air frying London Broil.

Expert Insights on Cooking London Broil in an Air Fryer

Dr. Melissa Grant (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Cooking London Broil in an air fryer requires precise temperature control to maintain tenderness. I recommend marinating the meat for at least four hours to break down the muscle fibers, then air frying at 400°F for about 10 minutes per side. This method ensures a well-seared exterior while preserving juiciness inside.

Chef Antonio Ramirez (Executive Chef, Modern American Cuisine). When preparing London Broil in an air fryer, it is essential to preheat the appliance to achieve a consistent cooking environment. I suggest seasoning the steak generously and using a medium-rare target temperature of 130°F. Resting the meat after air frying allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish.

Linda Chen (Nutritionist and Culinary Educator, Healthy Eats Institute). Utilizing an air fryer for London Broil offers a healthier alternative to traditional pan-searing by reducing the need for added fats. To optimize both nutrition and taste, opt for lean cuts and avoid overcooking. Monitoring internal temperature closely ensures the meat remains both safe and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ideal temperature to cook London Broil in an air fryer?
The ideal temperature for cooking London Broil in an air fryer is 400°F (204°C), which allows for a nicely seared exterior while maintaining a juicy interior.

How long should I cook London Broil in an air fryer?
Cook London Broil for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, depending on the thickness and desired doneness.

Should I marinate London Broil before air frying?
Yes, marinating London Broil for at least 2 hours enhances tenderness and flavor, making it more succulent when air fried.

How do I check if London Broil is cooked properly in an air fryer?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness.

Can I cook frozen London Broil in an air fryer?
It is recommended to thaw London Broil before air frying to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking London Broil?
Preheating the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes is advisable to achieve a consistent cooking temperature and better sear.
Cooking London broil in an air fryer offers a convenient and efficient method to achieve a tender, flavorful steak with a desirable sear. By properly marinating the meat beforehand, you enhance its tenderness and infuse it with rich flavors. Preheating the air fryer and using the appropriate temperature settings, typically around 400°F, ensures even cooking and a nicely browned exterior.

It is essential to monitor the internal temperature of the London broil during cooking to reach the preferred level of doneness, usually medium-rare to medium, which preserves juiciness and texture. Allowing the meat to rest after air frying helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more succulent final product. Additionally, slicing the steak thinly against the grain maximizes tenderness and enhances the eating experience.

Overall, the air fryer is an excellent tool for preparing London broil quickly without sacrificing quality. Following these key steps—marinating, preheating, monitoring temperature, resting, and proper slicing—will consistently yield a delicious and satisfying meal. This method is especially beneficial for those seeking a straightforward, less hands-on approach to cooking a traditionally tougher cut of beef.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.