Description
Steak Cooking Chart: Learn how to cook steak perfectly with our easy-to-follow doneness guide, temperatures, and pro tips.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Steak (Ribeye, NY Strip, or Filet Mignon) – 1 (8-12 oz)
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (freshly ground)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (high smoke point oil)
For Butter Basting (Optional but Recommended):
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves – 2 (crushed)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme – 1 sprig
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Your Steak
- Remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
📌 Pro Tip: A dry surface creates a better sear and prevents steaming.
2️⃣ Preheat Your Pan or Grill
- For pan-searing: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until smoking hot.
- For grilling: Preheat your grill to 450-500°F.
- Add olive oil and let it heat for 30 seconds before adding the steak.
📌 Pro Tip: A hot pan or grill ensures maximum caramelization for a deep, flavorful crust.
3️⃣ Sear the Steak for Maximum Flavor
- Place the steak in the hot pan without moving it for 2-3 minutes.
- Flip and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- For thicker steaks, transfer to a 400°F (200°C) oven and cook until it reaches the desired doneness.
🔥 Want a complete meal? Pair your steak with a Steak Burrito Bowl for an incredible dinner.
4️⃣ Use a Meat Thermometer to Check Doneness
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for an accurate reading.
- Remove the steak 5°F before the target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.
📌 Pro Tip: A medium-rare steak should read 130-135°F (54-57°C).
5️⃣ Butter Basting for Extra Flavor
- In the last minute of cooking, add butter, crushed garlic, and rosemary to the pan.
- Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak for an incredible depth of flavor.
📌 Pro Tip: This technique, called arroser, enhances tenderness and richness.
6️⃣ Let the Steak Rest!
- Transfer the steak to a plate or cutting board.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping it juicy and tender.
📌 Pro Tip: Skipping the resting step will cause the juices to leak out, making the steak dry.
Notes
✔ Use a meat thermometer – This ensures perfect doneness every time.
✔ Pat steak dry before cooking – A dry surface = better sear.
✔ Butter baste for extra richness – Adds depth and tenderness.
✔ Slice against the grain – This keeps the steak tender and easy to chew.
✔ Use a heavy pan – Cast iron retains heat well for the best crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak (8-12 oz) per person
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 50g
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