The air fryer makes it easy to cook beef dishes that are satisfying, convenient, and full of taste. These recipes focus on straightforward preparation while delivering tender textures and well-developed flavor. From quick weeknight mains to casual favorites, each dish is designed to cook efficiently without much cleanup. Familiar ingredients keep things approachable for everyday meals. Perfect for anyone who wants beef recipes that feel hearty without a lot of extra effort.

Air Fryer Cheeseburger

Air fryer cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun.
Air Fryer Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Thrive at Home.

A juicy cheeseburger cooks quickly in the air fryer for an easy weeknight meal. The method keeps the meat tender while melting the cheese perfectly. Great for moments when a fast homemade burger sounds better than takeout. Simple ingredients deliver classic comfort food flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheeseburger

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Meatballs

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Meatballs on a white plate with parsley and tooth picks.
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Meatballs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Bacon adds smoky richness to tender meatballs while the air fryer makes everything wonderfully crisp. Dinner is ready in under 20 minutes, which is perfect for busy nights. Flavor is bold without needing complicated ingredients. Works as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Meatballs

Air Fryer T-bone Steak

Air Fryer T-Bone Steak on a plate with pepper and parsley
Air Fryer T-bone Steak. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

A T-bone steak turns out juicy and tender right in the air fryer with very little effort. Results are consistent, making it easy even for newer cooks. Many people find there’s no need to use the grill after trying this method. Great choice for a steakhouse-style dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer T-bone Steak

Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Mini Meatloaves line up on a platter with a glaze on top.
Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Individual mini meatloaves cook faster than a full-sized loaf, making dinner quicker to serve. The air fryer creates a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Great for portion control and meal prepping. Comfort food flavor comes together with very little effort.
Get the Recipe: Mini Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Air Fryer Short Ribs

Several pieces of seasoned, cooked beef short ribs are arranged on a wooden board, showcasing a delicious take on air fryer beef recipes, with a small bowl of red pepper flakes in the background.
Air Fryer Short Ribs. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Short ribs become incredibly tender in the air fryer, with meat that nearly falls off the bone. Juices stay locked in for deep, rich flavor. A great option when slow-cooked taste is desired without long cooking time. Pairs beautifully with potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Short Ribs

Air Fryer Empanadas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Store-bought crusts make empanadas simple to assemble while the air fryer creates a flaky golden shell. The filling features well-seasoned ground beef for hearty flavor. Great for snacks, parties, or easy dinners. No deep-frying is needed to get a crispy result.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chuck Tender Filets

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chuck Tender Filet on a what plate with mashed cauliflower, butter, parsley, pepper, and salt.
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chuck Tender Filets. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Chuck tender filets stay juicy in the air fryer while bacon adds savory smokiness. A great option for an easy steak dinner at home. Cooking to medium-rare is simple and predictable. Ideal for date nights, weekends, or anytime a special meal is wanted.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chuck Tender Filets

Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Closeup of crispy beef in a bowl with green onions and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Mongolian Beef. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Thin strips of beef turn crispy in the air fryer and get coated in a sweet and salty sauce. Inspired by restaurant favorites and ready in about 20 minutes. Kid-friendly flavors make it popular with families. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Ribeye Steak

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Ribeye Steak with rice, butter and thyme on a white plate.
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Ribeye Steak. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Ribeye wrapped in bacon delivers a rich combination of juicy steak and crispy edges. Cooking time is short, often under 15 minutes. Works well for low-carb or keto meals. A satisfying option when a hearty dinner is needed fast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Ribeye Steak

Air Fryer Street Tacos

White plate with one taco.
Air Fryer Street Tacos. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Small tortillas are filled with flavorful air-fried steak for easy taco night. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Toppings like onion, salsa, and cilantro add fresh contrast. Quick cooking makes tacos doable even on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Street Tacos

Air Fryer Skirt Steak

Air fryer skirt steak sliced on a cutting board.
Air Fryer Skirt Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Skirt steak cooks fast in the air fryer while staying juicy and tender. A great option when grilling outdoors isn’t possible. Works beautifully for fajitas, salads, or tacos. Bold beefy flavor shines with simple seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Skirt Steak

Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Golden meatballs with a sprinkle of herbs on a white plate, with marinara sauce.
Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Firecracker meatballs bring spicy-sweet flavor with a sauce that adds a little kick. The air fryer keeps the texture juicy inside with a slightly crisp outside. Serve as appetizers, rice-bowl toppers, or main dish. Great for parties or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Firecracker Meatballs

Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Air fryer filet mignon with sliced potatoes.
Air Fryer Filet Mignon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A filet mignon cooks beautifully in the air fryer with a tender, buttery texture. Great choice for an elegant dinner at home without complicated prep. Results are consistent and impressive. Perfect for anniversaries, celebrations, or anytime a gourmet feel is desired.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Air Fryer New York Strip Steaks

Air Fryer New York Strip Steaks on a white plate with butter, thyme, pepper, salt, brussels sprouts, and a fork.
Air Fryer New York Strip Steaks. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

New York strip steaks become tender and flavorful in the air fryer in very little time. No outdoor grill is required, which is especially helpful in bad weather. Results are juicy and evenly cooked. Perfect for anyone who enjoys steakhouse flavor at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer New York Strip Steaks

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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