Air Fryer Roast Beef: Perfect 2lb Cook Time and Tips

Right, so you’re thinking of whipping up a roast beef dinner, but the whole oven thing isn’t quite your jam. Maybe you're short on time, or maybe you're just looking for a bit of a change. Well, let me tell you, an air fryer can be your new best friend for a delicious and fuss-free roast beef. I’ve been using mine for ages now, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

In this article, we’ll be diving deep into the world of air fryer roast beef, exploring everything from choosing the right cut to perfecting the cooking time and getting that perfect crust. I'll share my tried-and-tested tips, tricks, and recipes, all based on my own experiences in the kitchen. You’ll find out all about my favourite roast beef recipes, and I’ll even give you a few ideas for serving it up. So grab yourself a cuppa, get comfy, and let's get cooking!

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Cut

The first thing you need to do is choose your beef. Now, there are a few options out there, but for the perfect air fryer roast, I recommend going for a cut with a good amount of marbling – that’s the white fat running through the meat. This will help keep the beef juicy and flavourful during cooking. It’s all about finding that balance between lean and fatty.

Best Cuts for Air Fryer Roast Beef

Here are a few of my go-to choices:

• Topside: A lean cut that's perfect for slicing and serving cold. It’s a great option if you prefer a leaner meat, but it can be a bit dry if you’re not careful. The key here is to not overcook it, and to use it for sandwiches or salads rather than a traditional roast dinner.
• Sirloin: This is a more tender cut, and it's great for both slicing and serving whole. It’s my personal favourite for a roast beef dinner! It’s got a good balance of flavour and tenderness, and it doesn’t dry out as easily as topside.
• rib roast: If you want to really go for it, this is the cut for you. It's got a lot of flavour and is ideal for carving. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for it. The extra fat content makes it incredibly rich and flavorful, but it can also be a bit challenging to cook evenly.

When you're picking your cut, make sure it's about 2lb. If you're cooking for a larger group, go for a bigger cut. Don't worry, I've got tips for cooking larger cuts as well!

(Part 2) Preparing the Beef

Alright, so you’ve got your beef, now it’s time to get it ready for the air fryer. This might sound complicated, but it's really not. Here’s what to do:

Seasoning the Beef

Let's talk flavour! It’s all about seasoning the beef properly. This is what really makes a roast beef stand out. Here's what I do:

• Salt: Use a good quality sea salt. I always go for a generous sprinkle all over the beef. It’s important to salt it early on, as this helps draw out moisture and create a delicious crust. You can also use a dry rub, which is a mix of salt, pepper, and other spices, for extra flavour.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is my go-to. It gives the beef a lovely kick. You can also add other spices to your liking. I sometimes like to mix in a little paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spice blends!
• Herbs: This is where you can really get creative. I love using rosemary, thyme, and garlic. The combination of these herbs creates a classic roast beef flavour that's hard to beat. If you're feeling adventurous, you could try other herbs like oregano or parsley. Experiment with different combinations to find what you enjoy best.
• Oil: I use a bit of olive oil or sunflower oil to help the seasoning stick to the beef. It also helps to create a crispy crust. A good quality olive oil will add extra flavour, but sunflower oil is a great alternative if you prefer a neutral taste.

After seasoning, I like to rub the oil and spices into the beef with my hands. It’s a nice little ritual, and it helps to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed. Then, I set the beef aside for a little while so the flavours can develop. You can even let the beef sit in the fridge for a few hours, covered, to allow the seasoning to really permeate the meat.

Tying the Beef (Optional)

Now, this is something I don't always do, but it can make a difference for a more even cook. If your roast beef has a lot of thin bits, it might be worth tying it up with kitchen twine. This helps to hold the shape of the beef and prevent it from drying out. It's a bit fiddly, but it's worth it if you're going for a more professional-looking roast.

To tie the beef, simply use kitchen twine to tie the beef at regular intervals, making sure to tighten it enough to hold the shape. Then, place the beef on a baking rack over a baking sheet so that air can circulate around it. This will ensure the beef cooks evenly.

(Part 3) Cooking the Roast Beef in the Air Fryer

Alright, we’re finally ready to cook! Here's the breakdown of my air fryer roast beef technique:

Preheating the Air Fryer

First things first, preheat your air fryer. This is important to ensure the beef cooks evenly. You'll want to preheat it to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

Cooking the Beef

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to pop your beef inside. Make sure it's placed on the rack, and don't overcrowd the air fryer. Now, here’s where things get interesting. For a 2lb roast beef, you'll want to cook it for about 30 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and cook for another 30-40 minutes.

The initial high temperature helps to sear the outside of the beef, creating a crispy crust. The lower temperature helps to cook the beef through without drying it out. It’s a bit of a two-step process, but it really does make a difference in terms of the final result.

Checking for Doneness

Here's where things get a little tricky, and you’ll need to know your preferred level of doneness. The key is to not overcook the beef. Overcooked beef can be dry and tough, so it’s important to get it right. This is where a meat thermometer comes in handy. I like to aim for a final internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (65°C) for medium-well.

If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can use the "finger test" to gauge the doneness. Press the beef with your finger. If it feels firm and springy, it's medium-rare. If it feels slightly firmer, it's medium. And if it feels very firm, it's medium-well.

Resting the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, it's important to let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, which will result in a more tender and juicy roast. You can cover the beef loosely with tin foil while it rests. The juices will be absorbed back into the meat, making it even more flavorful and tender.

You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef is cooked to your liking.

(Part 4) Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Roast Beef

Now, here are some tips I've learned over the years that can really make a difference when cooking air fryer roast beef:

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer

If you're using a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook the beef in batches. Overcrowding the air fryer can hinder the airflow and prevent the beef from cooking evenly. You want to make sure there's enough space around the beef for the hot air to circulate and cook it properly. If you're not sure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and cook the beef in batches.

Use a Meat Thermometer

I can't stress this enough. A meat thermometer is your best friend when cooking roast beef. It ensures the beef is cooked to your liking and helps to avoid overcooking. Overcooked beef can be dry and tough, so it’s crucial to get the internal temperature right. A good meat thermometer is an investment that will pay off every time you cook beef.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Air fryer roast beef is a great way to get creative with your seasoning. Try different herbs, spices, or even a marinade. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you're using a marinade. You can really have fun with your seasoning and find what you like best. Some popular additions include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and even a bit of chili powder for a kick.

Rotating the Beef

To ensure even cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat, it's a good idea to rotate the beef halfway through the cooking time. This helps to ensure that all sides are exposed to the hot air. Just give the beef a gentle flip and continue cooking according to the instructions.

(Part 5) Recipes for Air Fryer Roast Beef

Now, let's get to the good stuff! Here are a couple of my favourite air fryer roast beef recipes, which you can easily adapt based on your preferences:

Classic Roast Beef

This is a simple and delicious recipe that's perfect for a weeknight meal:

• Ingredients:
• 2lb beef roast (topside, sirloin, or rib roast)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Instructions:
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and garlic. Rub the mixture all over the beef.
• Place the beef in the air fryer and cook for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and cook for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
• Let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Garlic Herb Roast Beef

For a more flavorful roast, try this recipe with a mix of herbs and garlic:

• Ingredients:
• 2lb beef roast (topside, sirloin, or rib roast)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Instructions:
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and garlic. Rub the mixture all over the beef.
• Place the beef in the air fryer and cook for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and cook for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
• Let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Both recipes can be adapted to your own taste by adding or removing ingredients. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices!

(Part 6) Serving Air Fryer Roast Beef

Now that you've cooked your perfect air fryer roast beef, you need to figure out how to serve it up. There are so many options, depending on what you fancy. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Roast Beef Dinner

A classic roast beef dinner is always a winner. Here's what I usually serve with mine:

• roast potatoes: You can't beat a good roast potato. I like to toss mine in olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary. You can even roast them in the air fryer with the beef, just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces and cook them for longer.
• Yorkshire Pudding: This is a must-have for any roast beef dinner. It's light, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up the gravy. You can even make it ahead of time and warm it up in the oven.
• green beans or Broccoli: These are simple side dishes that pair well with roast beef. You can steam them, roast them, or even add them to your air fryer for a quick and easy side dish.
• Gravy: No roast beef dinner is complete without gravy. You can make it from scratch using the pan juices, or you can use a store-bought gravy. I always add a bit of onion to my gravy for extra flavour.

roast beef sandwiches

If you want a quick and easy meal, try making roast beef sandwiches. They're perfect for lunch or dinner.

• Ingredients:
• Roast beef, sliced thin
• Sandwich rolls or bread
• Mustard
• Mayonnaise
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Onion
• Pickles
• Instructions:
• Spread mustard or mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll or slice of bread.
• Add the roast beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
• Top with the other half of the roll or slice of bread.

I like to add a bit of horseradish to my roast beef sandwiches. It gives them a nice kick. You could even use a homemade horseradish sauce.

Roast Beef Salad

For a lighter option, try a roast beef salad. Simply toss some thinly sliced roast beef with your favourite salad greens, vegetables, and a dressing. A simple vinaigrette with a bit of Dijon mustard works well.

(Part 7) Storing Leftover Roast Beef

Right, you’ve had your delicious roast beef dinner, and there’s a bit leftover. No worries, you can store it in the fridge and enjoy it later. Here’s how to do it:

Refrigerating

First, make sure your leftover beef is completely cooled down before you store it. You can cover it tightly in cling film, or you can store it in an airtight container. Then, pop it in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days. However, for the best quality, try to use it within two days.

Freezing

If you want to store the beef for longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well in cling film and then place it in a freezer bag. It should last in the freezer for about 3-4 months. When you’re ready to use it, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.

Using Leftovers

There are lots of ways to use leftover roast beef. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, or even add it to your favourite pasta dishes.

Here are a few ideas:

• Roast beef and mushroom stroganoff: This is a rich and creamy dish that's perfect for a cold night. Just sauté some mushrooms and onions, add some cream and leftover roast beef, and serve over pasta or rice. You can also add some sour cream or crème fraiche for extra richness.
• Roast beef and potato soup: This is a hearty and comforting soup that's perfect for a chilly day. Just simmer some leftover roast beef, potatoes, carrots, and celery in broth until tender, then blend it all together. Add some cream and herbs for extra flavour.

(Part 8) FAQs

Let’s get to the questions you might have about cooking roast beef in an air fryer. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Can I cook a larger roast beef in the air fryer?

You can, but you might need to cook it in batches. For a roast beef larger than 2lb, you might need to cut it in half or into smaller pieces to fit in the air fryer. If your air fryer is big enough, you can try cooking the roast beef whole, but you might need to increase the cooking time slightly.

2. What if my air fryer is too small?

If your air fryer is too small, you can use a baking dish. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would for the air fryer. However, it's important to use a rack in the baking dish to ensure the beef cooks evenly. The rack will help to lift the beef off the bottom of the dish, allowing air to circulate around it.

3. Can I cook a roast beef from frozen in the air fryer?

You can, but it will take longer. Make sure to defrost the beef completely before cooking it in the air fryer. Frozen beef will take much longer to cook and may not cook evenly. It's always best to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

4. What happens if I overcook the roast beef?

If you overcook the roast beef, it will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to your liking. If you're not sure, it's always better to err on the side of undercooking, as you can always cook it for a little longer if needed.

5. Can I use a marinade for air fryer roast beef?

You can, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Marinades can add moisture and flavor to the beef. Make sure to pat the beef dry before cooking it. A marinade can also help to tenderize tougher cuts of meat. Just be sure to remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry before cooking.

There you have it. Air fryer roast beef is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic meal. It's quick, easy, and requires minimal fuss. Give it a go, and let me know what you think!