Steak is one of our favorite meals, especially a nice big juicy T-Bone or a tender tri tip steak, but what do you do when you can’t eat the whole thing and that gorgeous steak turns into leftovers?
It might seem impossible to reheat a steak and have it turn out good the second time, but it’s not (especially if you have an air fryer – spoiler alert!). Here’s the best way to reheat steak like a pro.
Best Ways to Reheat Steak
In the Air Fryer
A few years ago I would have said that the best way to reheat most things was in the oven, but I’ve changed my ways now that I’m 100% invested in the air fryer. Most people have an air fryer these days. It helps you avoid the oven all together and it provides the best method of reheating due to the forced air that circulates within a small space to evenly reheat.
To reheat your steak in the air fryer, first bring the steak up to room temperature by taking it out of the refrigerator around 15 minutes before you reheat it.
Place the steak in the air fryer basket. Spray or coat the steak with cooking oil. For extra goodness, add a dollop of butter on the top of the steak.
Cook at 350°F (177°C) until the steak reaches around 125°F (52°C), depending on your desired doneness. This will take about 3-8 minutes. Check it every 2 minutes to prevent over cooking.
» If you don’t have an Air Fryer yet (go directly to Amazon and order one!), you really should consider it. We have a free Air Fryer starter guide that you can download or check out our Air Fryer page for more.
In the Oven
Reheating steak in the oven is my second most preferred method for retaining the juiciness and degree of doneness of the steak. It will take slightly longer than other methods, but it’s going to result in the a good steak.
To reheat in the oven, grab a wire rack and place it over a baking sheet. Set the steak on the rack. Assuming you just took the steak out of the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature before cooking.
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Cook the steak until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C). The best way to keep an eye on it is to use an in-oven meat thermometer.
On The Stovetop
You can reheat directly on the stovetop if you would rather skip the oven. While this method is faster, you’ll need to watch over your steak more closely during cooking.
The skillet should be heated over medium heat with a teaspoon of olive oil. Put the steak on the pan and turn it over every minute. Doing this will make sure it is cooked to your desired degree of doneness and doesn’t get overcooked. You want the meat to slowly reheat all around without cooking through the middle.
For medium-rare, two to three minutes should be sufficient.
Avoid the Microwave
Microwaves are not a great way to reheat food because they tend to cook too fast, resulting in an overcooked, dry, or tough piece of meat. We avoid it at all costs. Only use this method if you’re in a hurry or don’t have access to a stovetop.
If you do have to use the microwave, do so on 50% power and heat it for just 30 seconds at a time, checking each time to see if it’s done to your liking, and flipping it over. Remember that there will be some carry over heating, so take it out just before it reaches your desired doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Leftover Steak Be Reheated?
You can easily reheat a steak and do it properly to not overcook it or ruin the texture. The best ways to do it are in the oven, air fryer, or on the stove top.
What can be done to prevent steak from drying out when reheated?
Slowly rewarming steak in the oven and then searing it in a skillet for a few minutes prevents it from drying out. This method is also the most suitable for cooking steak from raw. With this reheating method, the steak retains its juiciness and has a nice charred and crispy exterior.
Can you reheat steak in the microwave?
You can use a microwave to reheat a steak, but it won’t turn out the best. The microwave has a way of zapping food of its life, leaving it dry and tough. If you need to reheat in the microwave, cover the steak in a microwave-safe bowl and add some water to the bowl. Cook at 50% power for 30 second intervals, flipping the steak each time.
Great Side Dishes to Eat With Your Steak
Salads
Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Corn & Black Bean Pasta Salad
Bacon, Jalapeno & Corn Salad
Classic Wedge Salad
Pear & Gorgonzola Salad
Veggies
Roasted Asparagus with Cranberries & Feta
Shaved Asparagus with Pesto
Roasted Green Beans & Mushrooms
Crispy Roast Potatoes
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Laura is a home cook, with 25 years experience behind the stove, who spends an extraordinary amount of time in the kitchen cooking. She loves making new recipes and finding wonderful new things to eat, both at home or abroad. She spends a lot of time researching, crafting, and perfecting her recipes and currently has a cookbook in development.