A dry rub vs. marinade

Some people insist that you need to marinate a flank steak, but I don’t agree. All you need is the right seasoning and cooking technique and you’ll get a tender, juicy steak every time.

Overhead image of the texture of flank steak sliced into strips with a serving fork on the side. Topped with fresh cilantro on top. this recipe

A simple homemade steak seasoning

I always prefer to make my own seasoning mixes, because most of the time pre-packaged mixes have fillers and preservatives in them. This simple homemade blend tastes like Montreal steak seasoning and it’s made with only a handful of seasonings in 2 minutes flat!

Of course, if you want to marinate your flank steak we have a recipe for that! Check out this easy homemade steak marinade recipe.

And if you are looking to make more seasoning blends at home, check out this post with 10 easy DIY spice blends.

Overhead image of slices of flank steak feathered out with a ramekin of seasoning on the side and fresh cilantro sprinkled on top.

How long to cook flank steak in the air fryer

Testing about 2 pounds of flank steak a few times, I can say it will take around 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer at 400°. This is for a steak cooked to medium-rare.

Of course, if you prefer a steak that’s more well done, you’ll need to cook it longer. Also, if your steak is smaller or larger you can adjust the cooking time by 2-3 minutes (less or more) as needed.

If you like this recipe, be sure to check out our grilled coffee rubbed steak recipe and this fresh chimichurri sauce for flank or skirt steak.

Overhead image of flank steak laid out vertically, with about half the steak sliced into thin strips.

Tips from testing

  • Be sure to watch the steak carefully at the end of the cooking time and remove it just as it’s cooked to your liking. From testing, I can say it can go fast at the end of the cooking time.
  • Overcooked flank steak can be tough so I like it cooked medium rare.
  • Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. If you cut into it right away, you’ll lose all of the juices.
  • Slice the flank steak into strips against the grain for the most tender bites.
Overhead image of air fryer flank steak sliced into thin strips with a serving fork on the side. Garnished with chopped cilantro on top.

Recommended sides for this flank steak

We like to keep it simple. Most often we just enjoy our steak with any grilled or roasted veggies or with some garlicky sauteed mushrooms and asparagus.

We hope you love this recipe as much as we do!

Don’t forget to leave a quick star rating and review below, we read every comment and truly appreciate your feedback. Also, be sure to browse the rest of our easy, delicious recipes to find some other favorites too!

Overhead image of the texture of flank steak sliced into strips with a serving fork on the side. Topped with fresh cilantro on top.
5 from 23 ratings
Get the Recipe:

Perfectly Seasoned Air Fryer Flank Steak in 15-Minutes

Prep: 5 minutes
10 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
With amazing flavor from a homemade steak seasoning, this juicy and perfectly seasoned air fryer flank steak is the best way to cook your steak!
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Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Flank steak

For the steak seasoning:

  • 1 tsp sea salt, (large flakes if you have them)
  • 1 tsp ground pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp coriander
  • 1/4 tsp dill
  • 1/8 tsp thyme
  • 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, (optional)

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400° Fahrenheit. Even if your air fryer doesn't preheat, set it to 400° and let it heat up for 5 minutes.
  • Make the steak seasoning by combining all of the ingredients in a bowl or jar and mixing well.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the flank steak.
  • Place the steak in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Around 10 minutes will result in medium rare steak, cook longer if desired.
  • Remove the steak and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Slice steak against the grain into strips and serve.

Last Step:

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Notes

Nutrition amounts listed are per serving and an estimate provided for those following a Ketogenic or low-carb diet. See our full nutrition information disclosure here. 
Calories: 314kcal, Carbohydrates: 1g, Protein: 49g, Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Fiber: 1g
Course: Main Course
Author: Justin Winn
Cuisine: American
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