Cooking a perfect steak on your stovetop can be a great option when you can’t grill outside because of the weather or don’t have access to a grill. Everyone likes their steak done in different ways, but regardless of how you like it, there are some key things to keep in mind to help you achieve the desired result. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks to help you cook the perfect steak on your stovetop.

Cooking Perfect Steak on Your Stovetop | Eat Urban Garden — Cooking Perfect Steak on Your Stovetop

Why Use a Stovetop for Cooking Steak?

Cooking a perfectly seared steak on a stovetop is a simple way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Not only is stovetop cooking convenient, but it also offers several advantages that make it the perfect choice for cooking juicy, tender steaks.

Maintain Control Over Cooking Temperature

One of the biggest advantages of using a stovetop to cook steak is having complete control over the cooking temperature. Unlike using an oven or grill, which can be affected by the weather and outside temperatures, a stovetop allows you to adjust the heat precisely to your liking. You can easily regulate the temperature throughout the cooking process, ensuring a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Enhance Flavor

Cooking steak on a stovetop allows for great flavor enhancement. The high heat of a stovetop sears the steak, locking in juices and creating a savory crust. Additionally, stovetop cooking also allows for the addition of flavorful ingredients such as butter, garlic or thyme, which infuse your steak with an unforgettable taste.

Convenience

Another advantage of stovetop steak cooking is the convenience it provides. All you need is a sturdy frying pan, a heat source, and your favorite cut of steak. You can cook up a delicious steak quickly, without having to worry about prepping an entire grill or heating up your entire oven. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious steak without the added hassle!

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

If you want to cook the perfect steak on your stovetop, it all starts with choosing the right cut of meat. Here are some of the best cuts of steak for stovetop cooking:

Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is a popular and tender cut of beef that is perfect for cooking on the stovetop. This expensive cut of meat is well-marbled, which means it has a lot of fat running through it, giving it a rich and juicy flavor. To cook filet mignon on your stovetop, you want to pan-sear it in a little oil and butter for a few minutes on each side until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Ribeye

Ribeye is another great choice for stovetop cooking. It’s a well-marbled cut of beef that has a lot of fat, which keeps it juicy and flavorful. To cook ribeye on your stovetop, you want to season it with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side until it’s cooked to your liking.

New York Strip

The New York strip is a slightly leaner cut of beef than filet mignon and ribeye, but it’s still a good choice for stovetop cooking. This flavorful cut of meat is tender and juicy, making it perfect for pan-searing. To cook a New York strip on your stovetop, you want to season it with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Preparing Your Steak Before Cooking

Before cooking your steak on the stovetop, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure it turns out delicious and tender. Follow these tips to properly prepare your steak:

1. Let your steak rest at room temperature

Before cooking your steak, it’s important to take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This will allow the steak to cook more evenly.

2. Season your steak generously

Seasoning your steak is crucial to making it taste flavorful and delicious. There are a variety of seasonings you can use, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and more. Rub the seasoning generously on both sides of the steak.

3. Tenderize your steak

To make your steak even more tender, consider using a meat tenderizer to pound the meat. Alternatively, you can marinate the steak in an acidic marinade for a few hours before cooking. This will help break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.

Remember to always handle raw meat with caution to prevent the spread of bacteria. Wash your hands and any surfaces the meat touches before and after handling.

How to Cook the Perfect Steak on Your Stovetop

Learning how to cook a perfect steak on your stovetop is easier than you might think and results in an incredibly delicious, juicy, and flavorful dish. Follow the simple step-by-step process below to impress your friends and family with your cooking skills.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cut

The type of cut you choose will have a significant impact on the texture and flavor of your steak. For stovetop cooking, it’s best to stick with thin cuts that will cook quickly and evenly, such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. Additionally, be sure to choose high-quality meat that is well-marbled and bright red in color, as this will result in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Step 2: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature

Remove your steak from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t become tough or chewy.

Step 3: Season the Steak

Before cooking your steak, season it generously with salt and pepper, as well as any other spices or herbs you like. Be sure to season both sides of the steak, and rub the seasoning in well to ensure it adheres to the meat.

Step 4: Cook the Steak on Your Stovetop

Finally, it’s time to cook your steak! Preheat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the pan, and then carefully place the steak in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until a crust forms on the bottom of the steak. Flip the steak and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the desired internal temperature is reached. For rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 120-130Â°F; for medium-rare, aim for 130-140Â°F; for medium, aim for 140-150Â°F; and for well-done, aim for 160Â°F or higher. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.

Tips for Achieving Your Desired Level of Doneness

Steak is a classic dish that can be cooked in various ways. One of the easiest methods is cooking steak on your stovetop. By following these tips, you can cook your steak to your desired level of doneness.

1. Choose the Right Cut of Steak

The key to cooking the perfect steak is selecting the right cut of meat. Choose a steak that is at least 1-inch thick, as thinner steaks tend to overcook easily.

2. Season Your Steak

Before cooking your steak, season it with salt and pepper. This will enhance its flavor and make it taste delicious.

3. Get Your Pan Hot

Heat up your stovetop pan on high heat for a few minutes before cooking the steak. This will ensure that the steak is seared perfectly.

4. Keep an Eye on the Steak

Check the steak regularly while cooking it on the stovetop. Flip the steak every couple of minutes to ensure that it is cooked evenly. You can use a meat thermometer to know the internal temperature of the steak.

5. Rest the Steak

After cooking the steak, take it out of the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will give the juices of the steak time to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful.

Following these tips will help you cook your steak to perfection on your stovetop.

Serving and Enjoying Your Perfectly Cooked Steak

After learning how to cook steak on your stovetop, it’s time to think about how to serve and enjoy it properly.

Pairing Your Steak with Wine

The right wine can elevate the flavors of your steak and take your dining experience to the next level. For a classic pairing, go with a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. If you prefer a lighter red wine, Pinot Noir or Merlot can work well. For white wine lovers, Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can complement a steak nicely.

Side Dishes for Your Steak

When it comes to sides, there are endless possibilities for complementing your perfectly cooked steak. For a classic steakhouse experience, serve your steak with a baked potato topped with sour cream and chives. For a healthier option, a side salad with fresh greens and vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak. Grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can also make for a delicious and nutritious pairing.

Other Ways to Enjoy Your Steak

Aside from the traditional steak-and-potatoes dinner, there are other creative ways to enjoy your perfectly cooked steak. Thinly slice the steak and use it as a topping for a homemade pizza. Or chop it up and toss it with your favorite pasta dish for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Whatever you do, make sure to savor every bite of your juicy and delicious steak!

Cheers to Perfecting Your Steak!

Now that you have learned how to cook the perfect steak on your stovetop, it’s time to put your skills to the test. Remember to always let your steak rest after cooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches your desired level of doneness. Whether you prefer rare or well-done, there’s no better comfort food than a juicy, perfectly cooked steak. Thanks for reading, happy cooking, and be sure to check back for more delicious recipes!