Roast beef with perfect crusty exterior straight from the air fryer
AirFryerRecipe.co.uk
Easy Roast Dinner
An image of the author of the blog
Emma Lawson | 
14.07.2025

Air Fryer Small Beef Joint Recipe

If you're wondering how to cook a small beef joint in an air fryer to perfection, you're in the right place! This method gives you deliciously tender roast beef with a crusty seasoned exterior. Follow our air fryer roast beef timings to get that medium rare roast beef in your air fryer. This recipe is ideal for a comforting air fryer roast dinner. Make sure to let it rest before slicing for best results.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
55m
Total Time
65m
Yield
serves 4
Icon of a chef hat
Beef
Icon of a Star
Beef

Ingredients for Small Beef Joint in Air Fryer

Essential Items

  • 800g beef joint
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Horseradish Sauce

Add a dollop of horseradish sauce alongside your roast for a delightful heat that enhances the beefy flavours. Simply mix fresh horseradish with a touch of cream.

Selecting the Right Olive Oil

Using a high-quality olive oil not only enhances the flavour but ensures an even crust on your beef joint. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and health benefits.

Steps to Cook Beef Joint in Air Fryer

Here’s how you can cook your beef joint to perfection in an air fryer.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
  2. Rub the beef joint with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  3. Place the beef joint in the air fryer basket.
  4. Cook at 200°C for 10 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to 180°C and cook for 45 minutes.
  6. Ensure internal temperature reaches 60°C for medium rare.
  7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooling for Juiciness

Always let your roast beef rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking. This ensures the juices are reabsorbed, leaving your beef tender and flavourful.
@Beef resting before slicing in an air fryer tray

Nutrition for Air Fryer Small Beef Joint

Calories: 320 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 1g | Fat: 22g

Serving Suggestions for Your Beef Joint

Pair your air fryer roast beef with roasted potatoes and Yorkshire puddings for a traditional British roast dinner. A side of steamed vegetables completes this comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Beef Roast

This air fryer beef joint recipe provides a straightforward way to achieve a perfectly crusty exterior with a juicy, tender interior. Cooking a small beef joint in air fryer ensures even cooking and a succulent roast that's perfect for your next Sunday dinner. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk to explore more delightful air fryer recipes and tips.

Explore other Recipes below!

FAQs about Cooking a Small Beef Joint in Air Fryer

What size beef joint is best for air frying?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Choose a beef joint that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket, around 800g-1kg is ideal.
Learn more more

How do I season a beef joint for air frying?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Rub the beef joint with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs for a flavourful crust.
Learn more more

What is the best air fryer roast beef timing?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Cook at 200°C for 10 minutes to sear, then reduce to 180°C and continue until done.
Learn more more

Why rest the beef before slicing?

An arrow pointing downwards tempting the user to click and show the answer to the FAQ
Resting the beef allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more tender and juicy slice.
Learn more more