Emeril Lagasse 26qt Extra Large Air fryer!

So, you've seen my rave review about the Emeril Lagasse 26qt air fryer, but let's dive into something I know many of you are curious about: how does it handle a good old steak? Before I got this magnificent machine, cooking steak in our camper was always a bit of a challenge. Frying it made the whole place smell for days, and outdoor grilling wasn't always an option. That's why I was so excited to test out the 'Steak' function on this air fryer, which the control panel clearly highlights! I decided to try a couple of different cuts to really put it through its paces. First up was a nice ribeye, about an inch thick. I seasoned it simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. For the Emeril Lagasse air fryer, I preheated it to 400°F (or used the dedicated 'Steak' preset, if available on your model – mine has it!) for about 5 minutes. Then, I placed the steak directly on the crisper tray. For a medium-rare finish, I cooked it for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. The results? Absolutely fantastic! It developed a beautiful crust, and the inside was perfectly juicy and tender, just like a pan-seared steak but with far less mess and smell. The 'Air Fry' function truly works wonders here, circulating hot air to create that crisp exterior without drying out the meat. Next, I experimented with a leaner cut, a sirloin, and used a different approach. Knowing this 26qt model also has a 'Grill' function (as seen on the panel!), I wanted to see if I could get those delicious grill marks. While it's not a traditional grill, the high heat from the 'Grill' setting, combined with the grill plate accessory that came with it, did an impressive job of searing and locking in flavor. For sirloin, I kept the temperature around 375-400°F and cooked for slightly less time, around 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. One pro tip I've learned for cooking steak in an air fryer: always let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful bite. And don't overcrowd the basket or tray! Give your steak plenty of room for that hot air to circulate evenly. If you're cooking multiple steaks, it's better to do them in batches. Beyond steak, this Emeril Lagasse air fryer's versatility is truly its superpower. I've used it for the lemon pepper wings and battered mushrooms I mentioned, but also for 'Roast' vegetables alongside my steak, and even for perfectly 'Broil'ed salmon. The 'Rotisserie' function is next on my list to try with a whole chicken! For anyone living in a small space or just looking for a multi-functional kitchen appliance that genuinely delivers on its promises, especially for achieving that perfect steak, this Emeril Lagasse 26qt model is a total game-changer. It's truly a must-have kitchen gadget. I'm still blown away by how much it simplifies cooking, even for something as often-intimidating as steak.