Grilled a steak to perfection is a culinary skill that any home chef can master with the right technique and a little practice. A perfectly grilled steak boasts a beautiful sear on the outside and a juicy, tender interior bursting with flavor. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of grilling a steak that will impress your friends and family alike.
Perfectly Grilled Steak Recipe
Serves: 4 Prep
Time: 40 Minutes
Cooking Time: 30 Minutes
Ingredients
- 2 boneless ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon steaks (1-1.5 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Steak:
- Start by taking the steaks out of the refrigerator and letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows for even cooking.
2. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for a temperature of around 450-500°F (232-260°C). It’s essential to have a hot grill for that perfect sear.
3. Season the Steak:
- Lightly coat both sides of each steak with vegetable or olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes a nice sear.
- Season the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add optional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite steak seasoning to enhance the flavor.
4. Sear the Steak:
- Place the seasoned steaks directly over the high heat on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and sear the steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side. This initial searing locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
5. Move to Indirect Heat:
- After searing, move the steaks to the cooler side of the grill. If you’re using a gas grill, turn off one set of burners; if it’s a charcoal grill, move the steaks away from the coals.
6. Grill to Desired Doneness:
- Continue grilling the steaks over indirect heat until they reach your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to get an accurate reading:
- Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
- Remember that the steak’s internal temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests, so remove it from the grill when it’s a couple of degrees below your desired doneness.
7. Rest the Steak:
- Once the steak reaches your preferred doneness, remove it from the grill and place it on a clean cutting board. Tent the steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
8. Slice and Serve:
- After resting, slice the steak against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve your perfectly grilled steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. You can also add a finishing touch by garnishing the steak with a pat of compound butter or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
With this recipe, you’re well-equipped to grill a steak that’s worthy of a five-star restaurant. The combination of a hot grill, the right cut of meat, proper seasoning, and precision in cooking time will ensure that you serve up a mouthwatering masterpiece every time you fire up the grill. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the barbecue, and get ready to impress your guests with a perfectly grilled steak.
