How to Cook Chuck Roast in Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a chuck roast in the air fryer is a game-changer for many beef lovers. The results are tender, juicy, and flavorful, with minimal oil and effort required. If you’re new to air frying, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking chuck roast in the air fryer, from prepping to serving.
Preparing the Chuck Roast
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get your chuck roast ready for the air fryer. Follow these steps to achieve a perfect roast:
• Choose the right cut: Opt for a 3-4 pound (1.36-1.81 kg) boneless chuck roast.
• Trim excess fat: Remove any excess fat, but leave about 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) on the surface for moisture.
• Season it: Rub the roast with a mixture of 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• Add aromatics: Place some chopped onions, carrots, and celery at the bottom of the air fryer basket to add flavor during cooking.
Cooking the Chuck Roast in Air Fryer
With your chuck roast prepped and seasoned, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Follow these steps:
• Set the air fryer temperature: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Set the cooking time: Cooking time will depend on your preferred level of doneness. Use the following table as a guide:
| Temperature | Cooking Time | Medium Rare | Medium | Well Done |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 4-5 hours | Not recommended | 4-4.5 hours | 4.5-5 hours |
| 400°F (200°C) | 2.5-3.5 hours | 2.5 hours | 3.5 hours | 3-3.5 hours |
• Cooking:
For lower cooking temperatures (350°F or 175°C):
Place the chuck roast in the air fryer basket, leaving some space for air circulation. You may need to cook the roast in batches depending on your air fryer model and size. Cook the roast for the recommended time, flipping it halfway through.
For higher cooking temperatures (400°F or 200°C): Follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking time and flip the roast at least once during cooking.
Resting and Carving
Once the air fryer beeps to signal that the cooking is complete, remove the roast and let it rest 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial for achieving tender results.
Use a sharp carving knife to slice the chuck roast against the grain (in the direction of the meat fibers). Tip: Cut the roast with the grain for a shredded roast.
Adding Pan Juices and Side Dishes
To complete your air-fried chuck roast experience, add 2-3 tablespoons of pan juices (from seared beef or chicken broths) to the final result. You can serve your air-fried roast with your favorite sides, such as:
• Roasted vegetables (e.g., Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes)
• Sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Au Jus (beef au jus or beef drippings)
Additional Tips and Variations
Add some extra flavors to your air-fried chuck roast by rubbin g it with spice mixes like paprika, chili powder, or Korean Gochujang paste. Experiment with various cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or Parmesan, by sprinkling them over the roast during the final cooking stages.
Make a tender and juicy crust: Sprinkle some crunchy, crispy elements like breadcrumb coating or crushed crackers to give your air-fried roast an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Air fryer cooking is perfect for those who want a lower-fat, healthier meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll experience an unbeatable balance of tenderness and juiciness when cooking chuck roast in an air fryer. The sky’s the limit; experiment with different flavor combinations and cooking times to become a master of the air fryer. Bon appétit!