Air Fryer Roast Beef
Ready in about 53 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
A proper roast beef with a crusty seasoned exterior and blushing pink slices is easy in the air fryer. It roasts faster than a conventional oven and stays wonderfully moist, perfect for Sunday lunch or piling into sandwiches.
Written for 6. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 1.2 kg topside or sirloin joint
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp English mustard powder
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
Method
- 1Pat the joint dry and rub with oil, then coat in mustard powder, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper.
- 2Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F) for 4 minutes.
- 3Place the joint fat-side up and roast for 30-45 minutes, turning halfway.
- 4Check the centre and remove at 63°C (145°F) for medium, or 71°C (160°F) for well done.
- 5Rest the beef, loosely covered, for 15 minutes.
- 6Carve into thin slices across the grain and serve with the juices.
Tips for the best results
- Weigh your joint and estimate roughly 20 minutes per 500 g, then confirm with a thermometer.
- Resting for a full 15 minutes gives noticeably juicier, pinker slices.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer roast beef steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Trusting the clock instead of a probe - Air Fryer Roast Beef is ready at 63°C / 145°F in the thickest part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer roast beef?
A typical starting point is 180°C / 360°F for 30-45 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
How do I know air fryer roast beef is cooked through?
Use a probe in the thickest part. Air Fryer Roast Beef should reach 63°C / 145°F. Rest a few minutes before slicing so juices settle.
How many people does air fryer roast beef serve?
This recipe is written for 6. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.
Can I make gravy from the drippings?
Yes, tip the collected juices into a pan, add stock and a little flour, and simmer until glossy.