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If you need a grill to cook the perfect steak, think again. How to cook a steak in a pan can deliver delicious, steakhouse-worthy results from your stovetop. Whether preparing for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, our step-by-step guide will help you achieve a perfectly cooked steak with a great crust and juicy interior.
Table of Contents
Selecting the Right Cut of Steak
To begin with, choose a thick cut of steak. For the best results, opt for steaks at least 1 inch thick, with 1 ½ inches even better. The Delish test kitchen often prefers cuts like boneless ribeye or New York strip steak for their marbled fat and tenderness. If you’re working with thinner cuts like flank steak or skirt steak, adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking—typically, 2 to 3 minutes per side should suffice.
Preparing Your Steak
Before cooking:
- Ensure that your steak is at room temperature.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture; a dry surface helps achieve a perfect crust.
- Season your steak with salt and let it rest (uncovered) in the fridge for about 45 minutes.
This process enhances the steak’s flavor and ensures even seasoning throughout.
Getting the Pan Ready
The key to a great steak is a hot pan. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is about to smoke. This ensures that your steak sears properly, creating a flavorful crust. Use a cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty frying pan for best results. These pans retain heat well and are ideal for achieving a perfect sear.
Cooking the Steak
Once your pan is hot, add some oil and then the steak. Cook for about 7 minutes on one side, then flip the steak. Add a couple of tablespoons of butter and continue cooking for 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium doneness. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve your desired level of doneness, whether you prefer medium-rare (130°-135°F), medium (135°-145°F), or medium-well (145°-155°F).
Resting the Steak
After cooking, let your steak rest for at least 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to be redistributed, resulting in a juicier steak. To keep it warm, cover the steak loosely with aluminum foil while it rests.
Enhancing Flavor
For added flavor, consider using aromatics like garlic or rosemary sprigs during cooking. A classic Garlic Butter Steak preparation involves adding garlic butter to the pan, which infuses the steak with rich flavors. Balsamic vinegar or a marinade can enhance the steak’s taste and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your steak with side dishes like garlic-Parmesan roasted carrots or a classic garlic-herb wedge salad. Consider serving the steak with Tuscan butter, red wine butter, or cowboy butter for an extra touch.
Summary
Knowing how to cook a steak in a pan can transform any ordinary meal into a special occasion. By selecting the right cut of steak, such as boneless ribeye or New York strip steak, and preparing it with care, you can achieve a steakhouse-quality dinner right at home. Start by ensuring your steak is at room temperature and patting it dry to remove any surface moisture. Proper seasoning and letting the steak rest before cooking are crucial for flavor and tenderness.
Using a cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty frying pan is key to getting a perfect sear. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the steak, and cook it to your desired level of doneness—whether that’s medium-rare, medium, or medium-well. Incorporate techniques like basting with garlic butter and using aromatics such as garlic rosemary for enhanced flavor.
Let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices, and pair it with complementary side dishes and sauces like Tuscan butter or cowboy butter. Mastering how to cook a steak in a pan allows you to enjoy a delicious, steakhouse-quality meal at home with minimal effort.
