Ready to take your tuna game to the next level? These Air Fryer Tuna Steaks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and so easy you’ll be wondering why you haven’t made them sooner!
Where my seafood lovers at?! Or should I narrow it down and specifically ask where my tuna lovers at?! I often find that there are two types of people in this world – those who love tuna fish and those who don’t. And although I do love canned tuna, that’s not the kind of tuna I’m talking about today.
Today I’m talking about fresh tuna steaks. You know – thick, juicy, and packed with flavour! Whether you’re grilling it, searing it, or tossing it in the air fryer like I’ll show you how to do in this simple recipe, this fish is always ready to steal the show! When cooked properly, tuna steaks have that perfect balance of a crispy sear on the outside and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center that makes every bite pure magic.
When cooking tuna steaks, you want to treat them like the VIPs they are—quick, hot, and with just the right touch of seasoning. Cook them to perfection so you get a crispy exterior while keeping that juicy, tender center. Trust me, nail this technique and I see a new tuna steak obsession in your near future. Lol.
These air fryer tuna steaks are as versatile as they are delicious! Whether you’re munching on them as a snack, serving them up as a standout appetizer, or making them the star of your main meal, these steaks have got you covered. Toss them on a salad, pair them with your favourite sides, or just enjoy them straight out of the air fryer. No matter how you slice it, this tuna steak recipe is sure to become your new go-to!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE AIR FRYER TUNA STEAKS
Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about the simple ingredients that make these air fryer tuna steaks seriously delicious. Each one brings something awesome to the table, creating a flavour-packed dish that’s sure to impress. Here’s the scoop on what you’ll need:
- Tuna Steaks: Well, duh! Tuna steaks are the star of this dish. Their firm, meaty texture is perfect for air frying, creating a beautifully seared outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Look for sushi-grade tuna for the best flavour and quality.
- Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the tuna and ensures a crisp, golden crust when air-fried. It also adds a subtle richness to the flavour. As always, good quality and extra virgin works best. However, feel free to use a different kind of oil (such as avocado) instead, if you prefer.
- Garlic Powder: This pantry staple gives the tuna steaks a mild, savory depth, enhancing the natural flavour of the fish without overpowering it. It also adds a bit of garlic flavour without the need to use fresh garlic.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet kick that pairs wonderfully with the rich taste of tuna. It also gives the steaks a beautiful, appetizing colour. You can use regular paprika instead, if you prefer.
- Ground Black Pepper: Brings a sharp, peppery bite that contrasts nicely with the other seasonings, adding a touch of heat and complexity.
- Salt: A pinch of sea salt elevates all the other flavours, bringing out the natural sweetness of the tuna and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of spice, red pepper flakes add a pleasant heat that complements the smoky paprika and peppery notes. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit them completely for no heat at all.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma and flavour, cutting through the richness of the tuna and tying all the seasonings together with a refreshing finish. IMHO, the lemon zest really takes the seasoning for these air fryer tuna steaks to a whole other level!
HOW TO MAKE TUNA STEAKS IN THE AIR FRYER (KEY TIPS)
You can find full instructions for how to make these easy air fried tuna steaks in the recipe card down below, but here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:
- All air fryers are different so make sure you know yours before beginning. If your air fryer has a preheating function, be sure to do so beforehand. This ensures the tuna steaks start cooking immediately, giving you that perfect sear on the outside.
- For the best flavour and texture, go for sushi-grade tuna. It’s higher quality and ideal for cooking rare to medium-rare, which is perfect for air frying. EXTRA TIP: Handle your tuna steaks with care! This delicate piece of fish can easily break or tear if you’re not careful.
- Before seasoning, pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel. This removes excess moisture and helps the seasoning stick better giving you a nice, crispy exterior.
- Mix your seasoning thoroughly before applying, then rub it evenly on both sides of the tuna steaks. This ensures every bite is packed with flavour and gives the steaks a beautiful, even crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure the tuna steaks have enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so it’s better to cook in batches if you need to.
- Check for doneness and be careful not to overcook. Tuna can go from perfect to overcooked quickly. Keep an eye on the time and use a meat thermometer if needed—aim for an internal temperature of 115°F to 120°F for medium-rare.
- After cooking, let the tuna steaks rest for a minute or two. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavourful. This brief resting period also helps the tuna steaks firm up making them a lot easier to slice.
- Always slice tuna steaks against the grain. This keeps the meat tender and makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, there is a difference between ahi tuna and tuna steaks, though the terms are often used interchangeably. Ahi tuna refers specifically to two types of tuna: yellowfin and bigeye. It’s known for its mild flavour and firm texture, making it popular for sushi, seared dishes, and poke bowls.
On the other hand, “tuna steaks” is a more general term that can refer to any cut of tuna, including ahi, bluefin, or albacore. While ahi tuna steaks are prized for their high quality, other tuna varieties can also be used to make delicious tuna steaks, depending on the dish and your preference.
Generally speaking, tuna steaks should be cooked quickly and at a high temperature to preserve their tender texture. For a perfect sear while keeping the center rare to medium-rare, cook the steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side on a hot grill or pan. If using an air fryer, aim for around 5-7 minutes at 380°F (190°C), flipping halfway through. Tuna is best enjoyed with a slightly pink center, so avoid overcooking, as it can become dry and lose its delicate flavour. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness.
Tuna steaks are often not cooked all the way through because their texture and flavour are best enjoyed when they remain slightly pink in the center. Not cooking them beyond medium rare helps retain the tuna’s tender, moist texture and rich, delicate flavour.
Overcooking can make the tuna dry and tough, losing the succulent quality that makes it so desirable. Quick, high-heat cooking is best and helps preserve the fish’s nutritional value. It also ensures it remains flavourful and appealing, much like how you’d enjoy a perfectly cooked steak.
Leftover tuna steak typically lasts in the fridge for about 2-3 days. To ensure it stays fresh, let the tuna cool to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and to keep it from absorbing other odors.
If you need to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen tuna steak in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat leftover tuna steak, it’s best to do so gently to avoid drying it out. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and place the tuna steak on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed. Avoid using high heat or microwaving, as this can overcook the steak and affect its texture.
LOVE TUNA STEAKS? TRY MY PERFECT GRILLED TUNA STEAK RECIPE NEXT!
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AIR FRYER TUNA STEAKS
Ingredients
- 2 Tuna Steaks (about 6 oz. each)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Zest of 1 Lemon
Instructions
- If needed, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest.
- Brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the tuna steaks. Place the seasoned tuna steaks in the air fryer basket or tray, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness (5 minutes for rare, 7 minutes for medium). Flip the steaks halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Once done, remove the tuna steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before slicing thinly against the grain.
Video
Notes
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