Air fryer London broil is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak that cooks in minutes. Whether you’re using a Ninja Foodi, Emeril Lagasse Air Fryer, or another model, this method delivers quick results without sacrificing tenderness.
What This Post Includes?
Why Air Fryer London Broil Works?
London Broil in Air Fryer – A Perfect Pairing
Back when I first tested London broil in the air fryer, I wasn’t expecting the results to rival my grill. But the moment I sliced into that tender, juicy steak with its beautifully seared crust, I was sold. Growing up, my grandmother used to oven-broil thick top round steaks, but we always had to keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. That’s the beauty of the air fryer: it maintains precise heat and uses rapid circulation to lock in moisture.
The term “London broil” actually refers to a cooking method, not the cut itself. It typically uses a lean, budget-friendly top round steak, which benefits from fast, high-heat cooking. Thanks to the compact, hot air environment in air fryers, you get that ideal caramelized crust in under 10 minutes, with minimal effort. It’s also a healthier method, needing only a touch of oil.
Cut to the Chase – Top Round Steak Benefits
When you’re working with a 2 lb London broil in an air fryer, choosing the right cut is key. Top round steak—commonly used for London broil—is lean, hearty, and super affordable. It’s the kind of meat that sings when paired with bold seasoning like Montreal Steak Seasoning and a kiss of olive oil.
Marinating is optional, but a dry rub works wonders, especially when you’re in a hurry. Coat the steak lightly with olive oil, then generously season both sides to lock in flavor—no marinade required. No messy marinades. No babysitting the stove. And because this method cooks evenly on both sides, you don’t need to flip unless you want that extra crust.
Air Fryer London Broil – Juicy, Fast, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy, flavorful air fryer London broil made with simple ingredients and ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
1½ pounds top round London broil
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 teaspoons Montreal Steak Seasoning
Instructions
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat steak dry and coat with olive oil.
3. Season both sides with Montreal Steak Seasoning.
4. Place London broil in air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8–10 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness.
6. Remove from air fryer and let rest for 10 minutes.
7. Slice against the grain and serve.
Notes
- For frozen London broil: cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Reheat leftovers at 350°F for 1–3 minutes depending on portion size.
- Let steak rest after cooking to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients & Prep Fundamentals
Essential Ingredients for Flavor & Texture
To create a juicy, flavorful air fryer London broil, you only need a few pantry staples. This easy recipe highlights the natural richness of the meat without overcomplicating things. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1½ pounds top round London broil
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning
The top round steak is the ideal cut for London broil in the air fryer. It’s lean, affordable, and holds up well to the high heat of air frying. A quick coating of olive oil helps it brown beautifully, while the Montreal steak seasoning adds bold, peppery flavor. For variety, you can try a spicy dry rub, herby garlic blend, or even a balsamic glaze for a slightly tangy twist. This kind of versatility is why so many home cooks love making London broil Ninja Foodi or even a London broil in Emeril Lagasse air fryer.
Prep Doesn’t Have to Be Fancy
Preparing London broil for the air fryer is fast and foolproof. Start by patting the steak dry, which helps form a good crust. Rub the surface with olive oil, then sprinkle seasoning on both sides, pressing it gently into the meat. This simple step is key to locking in flavor and getting that golden exterior.
If you’re cooking a 2 lb London broil in air fryer, consider letting it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This promotes even cooking and better texture. Some also choose to lightly tenderize the meat if the cut is especially thick. And don’t worry—no marinade is required unless you’re aiming for added depth. Just season and go. That’s the magic of a great air fryer top round steak.
Cooking Instructions & Temperature Guide
Step‑by‑Step Air Fryer Instructions
Making a delicious air fryer London broil is fast, simple, and doesn’t require any special equipment beyond your trusty air fryer. Once your steak is seasoned and ready, follow these steps to achieve that perfect cook:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures a hot environment right from the start, helping your London broil develop a flavorful crust.
- Place the steak in the basket. Whether you’re using a Ninja Foodi in Emeril Lagasse air fryer, or another model, give the meat some space for airflow.
- Cook the London broil in air fryer for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness. A 1½-inch steak reaches medium-rare in about 8 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking if desired.
- After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. This essential step keeps the juices inside, giving you a tender, juicy air fryer top round steak.
If you’re cooking from frozen, yes—you can absolutely make a frozen London broil in the air fryer. Just season it directly and extend the cook time to 12–15 minutes. No need to thaw.
Know Your Doneness & Timing
When cooking a London broil in air fryer, using a meat thermometer helps you hit your preferred doneness. Here’s a temperature chart to guide your timing:
| Doneness | Internal Temp (°F) | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125–130 | 6–7 min |
| Medium Rare | 130–135 | 8 min |
| Medium | 140–145 | 9–10 min |
| Well Done | 155–160 | 11–12 min |
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness or the air fryer model you use. For reheating leftovers, set your air fryer to 350°F and warm slices for 1 minute or a whole piece for 2–3 minutes. This works perfectly when repurposing air fryer London broil into wraps, salads, or even steak sandwiches.
Tips, Variations & Serving
Pro Tips for Juicy Results Every Time
To get the best out of your air fryer London broil, it’s all about timing, slicing, and temperature control. First, never skip the resting period. Once your steak finishes cooking, let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This keeps the juices from spilling out when you slice it, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite.
Always slice against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers and creates that perfect steakhouse texture. If you’re cooking a thicker cut like a 2-inch London broil, you may want to tent the meat with foil while it rests to retain warmth without overcooking. Also, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket—it restricts airflow and can steam rather than sear the meat. Use this same tip when making other crowd-pleasers like our air fryer meatballs chicken or Air fryer yellow squash.
Whether you’re using a Ninja Foodi, Emeril Lagasse, or another model, keep a digital meat thermometer handy. It’s the best way to guarantee your steak is cooked exactly how you like it—whether that’s rare or well done.
Creative Variations & What to Serve With It
London broil is delicious with just seasoning and oil, but don’t be afraid to mix things up. For a spicy version, rub the steak with chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne before air frying. Craving fresh herbs? Add thyme and rosemary, or go bold with a balsamic marinade for a touch of sweetness.
Wondering what to serve with your air fryer London broil? Classic sides like roasted potatoes, asparagus, or garlic green beans work well. Want a lighter meal? Serve sliced steak over a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette. Or try it with chimichurri, tzatziki, or horseradish cream. If you’re planning a full air fryer dinner, pair it with Air fryer tuna patties or our White Castle Cheeseburger Bites In Air Fryer for a high-protein, family-friendly combo.
This dish is perfect for everything from casual weeknights to meal prep Sundays. Its bold flavor and quick cook time make London broil in the air fryer a go-to in any home cook’s rotation.
Storage & Reheating (blended in Tips section)
Pro Tips for Juicy Results Every Time
Making air fryer London broil taste amazing comes down to a few simple tricks. First, always let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking. This rest time allows the juices to settle, so every slice stays moist and flavorful.
When slicing your steak, go against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easier to chew. If you’re preparing a thicker cut—like a 2 lb London broil in the air fryer—cover it with foil while it rests to keep it warm without overcooking.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Giving the steak enough space allows hot air to circulate and helps develop that rich crust. This matters whether you’re cooking London broil in a Ninja Foodi or a compact countertop model. A thermometer is also your best friend. No matter what air fryer you’re using, check doneness by temperature, not guesswork.
Have leftovers? Air fryer London broil stores well. Keep cooked slices in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Want to freeze it? Seal it well and store in the freezer for as long as 3 months. When it’s time to reheat, set your air fryer to 350°F. Cook thin slices for about 1 minute, or reheat a full piece for 2 to 3 minutes. This keeps the steak juicy without drying it out—perfect for wraps, grain bowls, or next-day salads.
Pair your air fryer top round steak with a quick side or appetizer. A bite-sized option like our White Castle Cheeseburger Bites In Air Fryer adds fun to any meal and balances out the protein-packed main course.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful, and foolproof way to prepare steak, air fryer London broil is the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a tender, juicy top round steak on the table in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re cooking fresh or frozen, this method gives you consistently delicious results—no grill, broiler, or guesswork required.
From bold seasoning to flexible serving options, London broil in the air fryer fits right into busy weeknights, meal prep routines, or casual weekend dinners. And when paired with your favorite sides or stored for next-day meals, it proves just how versatile and reliable this cut can be.
Ready to master this method in your own kitchen? Try it tonight—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly favorite.
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FAQs about Air Fryer London Broil
How to cook London broil in air fryer?
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Season the London broil with oil and Montreal steak seasoning. Place it in the basket and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness, until it reaches your preferred doneness. Let it rest before slicing.
Can you cook a London broil in an air fryer?
Yes, absolutely. Whether you’re using a standard model, a Ninja Foodi, or an Emeril Lagasse air fryer, London broil cooks beautifully in the air fryer. It’s fast, mess-free, and perfect for lean cuts like top round.
Is London broil good in the air fryer?
Yes. The hot air circulation sears the outside and locks in juices, making air fryer London broil tender and flavorful. It’s a healthier, quicker method than broiling or pan-searing.
How long to broil steak in the air fryer?
For medium-rare, cook a 1½-inch thick London broil for about 8 minutes. Use a thermometer for best accuracy: 130°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
How do you air broil in an air fryer?
Use the “air broil” or “broil” setting on your air fryer if available, or manually set it to 400°F. Place the seasoned steak in the basket and cook according to thickness. Flip once if your model requires it.
How long does it take to cook a 2-inch thick London broil?
It typically takes 10 to 12 minutes for a 2-inch London broil in the air fryer, depending on desired doneness. Always check with a thermometer for precision.
What temperature to cook London broil in air fryer?
Set your air fryer to 400°F for fresh steak. For frozen cuts, the same temperature works; just extend the time to 12–15 minutes. This is ideal even for variations like London broil jerky as seen in some YouTube air fryer tutorials.