Air Fryer Tuna Steak

Air Fryer Tuna Steak features sushi-grade ahi tuna coated in sesame seeds with olive oil; air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes until seared outside and rare in the center.

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Time
8 min
Temp
400°F
Calories
280
Serves
2
High ProteinHealthyDate Night Easy
Air Fryer Tuna Steak

Method

  1. 1

    Pat tuna steaks completely dry. Brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Press sesame seeds onto all sides of each steak.

  3. 3

    Air fry at 400°F for 4-6 minutes for rare (2 minutes per side), or 6-8 minutes for medium.

  4. 4

    Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and wasabi for dipping sauce.

  5. 5

    Slice tuna against the grain. Serve with dipping sauce, pickled ginger, and green onions.

Pro tip. Buy sushi-grade tuna — you want the center rare and ruby red. Sear time is everything: 2 minutes per side for rare, 3 for medium-rare. Anything past medium and you've ruined an expensive fish. Press the sesame seeds on firmly so they don't fall off.

Why the air fryer wins here

  • Fast-moving hot air browns the outside before the inside dries out, so you get color without babysitting.
  • Cleanup is a basket, not a sheet pan and a splattered stovetop.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate perishable leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour above 90°F. Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) throughout, measured with a food thermometer. USDA leftover safety guidance.

Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring them back, air fry at 325°F for 3-5 minutes. Let it come to room temp for 15 minutes first. Finish with a 30-second 400°F sear if you want the crust back. Full reheat guide for steak.

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