Step 1: Prep the Liver and Onions
Wash and Cut Liver: Rinse the beef liver pieces under cold running water, and pat them very dry with paper towels.13 Cut them into roughly 1-inch bite-sized pieces if they are not already sliced.
Slice Onion: Peel and slice your medium onion into thin rings or strips.14
Combine and Season: In a medium bowl, combine the dried liver pieces and the sliced onions.15
Add the salt, black pepper, and the optional garlic powder.16
Drizzle or spray lightly with olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil).17
Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon to ensure the liver and onions are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.18
Step 2: Load the Air Fryer
Preheat (Optional but Recommended): Preheat your air fryer to $400^\circ\text{F}$ ($200^\circ\text{C}$) for about 3-5 minutes.
Arrange: Place the seasoned liver and onion mixture into the air fryer basket or tray.19
Try to arrange them in a single layer for the best results. You may need to cook in two separate batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Lightly spray the top of the liver and onions again with oil spray.
Step 3: Air Fry
Initial Cook: Air fry for 6 minutes.
Shake and Flip: Open the air fryer, shake the basket well, or use tongs to flip and stir the liver and onions.20 This helps everything cook evenly.
Final Cook: Cook for another 4 to 6 minutes.
Step 4: Check for Doneness and Serve
Check Temperature: The total cook time is typically around 10–12 minutes.21 Check the liver with an instant-read meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of at least 22$160^\circ\text{F}$ (23$71^\circ\text{C}$) for a safe and slightly pink center, or 24$165^\circ\text{F}$ (25$74^\circ\text{C}$) for well-done.26
Crucial Tip: Stop cooking immediately once it reaches the desired temperature. Overcooked liver becomes tough and chewy very quickly.27
Serve: Transfer the liver and onions to a plate. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or fresh greens.
