How Long to Cook Beef Strips in an Air Fryer for Perfectly Crispy Results

Air fryers have revolutionized how we cook at home. These handy appliances can churn out crispy favorites like fries chicken wings and now, beef strips, with a fraction of the oil of deep frying. But determining the ideal air fryer cooking time for beef can be tricky. Follow this guide for deliciously crispy air fried beef strips every time.

Benefits of Cooking Beef in an Air Fryer

Air frying is a great technique for lean beef cuts like sirloin or flank steak The super hot air circulates around the meat, searing the outside to lock in juices while cooking the inside The result is healthy beef strips with a crunchy crust and tons of flavor.

Air frying also uses little to no oil compared to pan frying. Just a light coating on the beef is needed to promote browning. Using an air fryer allows you to skip the greasy mess of deep frying for crisp beef with about 90% less fat and calories.

Prepping Beef for the Air Fryer

Select lean beef cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or London broil for air frying. Excess fat can cause smoking issues in the air fryer. Slice the beef against the grain into long 1-inch wide strips. Cut strips as evenly as possible for even cooking.

Marinate the beef strips first in your favorite marinade for added flavor. Pat the strips very dry before air frying as any moisture will steam the meat instead of crisping it.

How Long to Air Fry Beef Strips

Air fryers cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on cooking times. As a general guideline:

• Sirloin or flank steak strips – 7-9 minutes at 380°F
• London broil strips – 9-11 minutes at 380°F

Flank steak is slightly thinner than sirloin or London broil so may require 2-3 fewer minutes. Thickness directly impacts cooking time.

For the best results, flip the beef strips over halfway during cooking. This ensures even browning and doneness throughout the strips.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Air Fried Beef

• Pat beef strips very dry before air frying for crispy results.

• Flip strips over halfway during air frying for even cooking.

• Brush strips lightly with oil to promote browning and crispness.

• Cook in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

• Adjust cooking times based on thickness of cuts.

• Sprinkle strips with a beef rub or seasoning blend for extra flavor.

• Let strips rest 3-5 minutes after cooking before serving.

Common Air Fryer Beef Problems and Easy Fixes

Problem: Beef strips are undercooked inside.

Solution: Increase air frying time in 2-3 minute increments until done. Use a meat thermometer.

Problem: Beef strips are overcooked and dry.

Solution: Reduce air frying time by a few minutes. Don’t overcook past 145°F internal temp.

Problem: Beef strips lack crispy crust or browning.

Solution: Ensure strips are patted very dry before cooking. Brush with a little oil before air frying.

Problem: Beef strips turn out chewy after air frying.

Solution: Make sure to slice beef across the grain into thin strips for tenderness.

Problem: Beef strips stick to the air fryer basket.

Solution: Brush basket lightly with oil before adding beef strips.

Cooking Times for Other Meats in an Air Fryer

Once you get the hang of air frying beef, try out these cooking times for other proteins:

• Chicken breast strips – 10-12 minutes at 380°F

• Pork chops (1-inch thick) – 14-16 minutes at 360°F

• Shrimp – 3-5 minutes at 400°F

• Salmon fillet – 10-12 minutes at 360°F

• Chicken wings – 22-28 minutes at 400°F

• Chicken drumsticks – 18-22 minutes at 360°F

• Thick-cut bacon – 8-10 minutes at 400°F

Adjust times as needed based on the doneness, thickness, and your own air fryer model. Flip or shake items halfway through for the best results.

Make the Most of Your Air Fryer with Crispy Beef

Air frying lets you experience all of the crispy, indulgent flavors of typically fried foods but in a healthier way. Follow the tips here to air fry flavorful, tender beef strips to crunchy perfection.

Ditch the deep fryer and use your air fryer anytime the craving for crispy beef hits. The possibilities are endless for making tantalizing yet good-for-you air fried meals.