Olivia Carter
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak, and when it comes to achieving that delicious crust and juicy interior, a cast iron skillet on the stove is the way to go. Cooking steak on a cast iron skillet not only allows for better heat distribution, but also helps to create a beautiful sear that locks in the flavor.
Before you begin, it’s important to choose the right cut of steak. Look for a steak with marbling, like ribeye or New York strip, as this will ensure a tender and flavorful result. Also, make sure to bring your steak to room temperature before cooking, as this will help to ensure that it cooks evenly.
When it comes to seasoning your steak, keep it simple. A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides of the meat is all you need to enhance the natural flavors. However, feel free to get creative and add some additional herbs and spices if desired.
Now that your skillet is preheated and your steak is seasoned, it’s time to get cooking. Place the steak in the hot skillet and let it sear for a few minutes on each side, without moving it around. This will help to develop that beautiful crust. Once it’s seared, you can reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking for the desired level of doneness.
Remember, cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and how well-done you like it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steak reaches the desired internal temperature. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C).
Once your steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Now that you know how to cook a steak on a cast iron skillet on the stove, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steak in the comfort of your own home. So fire up that skillet, grab your favorite cut of steak, and get cooking!
Guide to Perfectly Cook Steak on Cast Iron Skillet
If you want to cook a delicious and juicy steak, using a cast iron skillet on the stove is a great option. The high heat retention and even heat distribution of a cast iron skillet make it the perfect tool for cooking steak to perfection. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook steak on a cast iron skillet.
Preparation
Before cooking the steak, it is important to let it come to room temperature. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
While the steak is reaching room temperature, you can season it. Generously sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any additional seasonings or rubs according to your taste preferences.
Cooking
1. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. You want the skillet to be fully heated before adding the steak.
2. Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the skillet. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
3. Carefully place the steak in the skillet. Be cautious as the oil may splatter. Let the steak sear without moving it for about 3-4 minutes, or until a golden brown crust forms.
4. Flip the steak using tongs or a spatula. Allow the second side to sear for another 3-4 minutes, or until it develops the same golden brown crust.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For rare, cook until the temperature reaches 125°F (52°C). For medium-rare, cook to 135°F (57°C). For medium, cook until the temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Adjust cooking time accordingly.
6. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board or plate for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
| Doneness | Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F (52°C) |
| Medium Rare | 135°F (57°C) |
| Medium | 145°F (63°C) |
Now you have a guide to perfectly cook steak on a cast iron skillet. Enjoy your delicious and tender steak!
Choose the Right Cut
When it comes to cooking steak on a cast iron skillet on the stove, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The cut of steak you choose will greatly affect the tenderness and flavor of the final dish. Here are a few popular cuts of steak that work well for cooking on a cast iron skillet:
Ribeye
The ribeye steak is known for its rich marbling, making it one of the most flavorful cuts of beef. It is tender, juicy, and perfect for cooking on a cast iron skillet. The marbling melts while cooking, infusing the meat with an amazing taste.
Sirloin
Sirloin steak is another great option for cooking on a cast iron skillet. It is a leaner cut of meat, but still offers a delicious and robust flavor. Sirloin steaks are often less expensive than ribeye, making them a popular choice for those who want a tasty steak without breaking the bank.
Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is the most tender cut of steak, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture. While it is not as flavorful as ribeye or sirloin, it is incredibly tender and perfect for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Filet mignon works well on a cast iron skillet due to its tenderness and quick cooking time.
| Steak Cut | Flavor | Tenderness |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeye | Rich and flavorful | Tender |
| Sirloin | Robust | Tender |
| Filet Mignon | Delicate | Extremely tender |
When selecting your steak, look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat, as this will contribute to juiciness and flavor. Furthermore, consider the size of your steak and adjust cooking times accordingly. Thinner cuts will cook faster, while thicker cuts may require more time on the stove.
Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet
Before you start cooking your steak, it’s important to properly preheat your cast iron skillet. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust.
Here’s how to preheat your cast iron skillet:
- Place the cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes hot.
- During this time, you can season your steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Let the steak sit at room temperature while the skillet is preheating.
- Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil or fat. Swirl the skillet to coat the bottom evenly.
- Allow the oil or fat to heat up for a minute or two until it starts to shimmer or smoke slightly. This indicates that the skillet is hot enough.
By preheating your cast iron skillet properly, you’ll create the perfect cooking surface for your steak and achieve a beautifully seared crust.
Season the Steak
Before cooking your steak, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here’s how:
1. Pat the steak dry: Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture and help the seasoning adhere better to the meat.
2. Season with salt: Liberally sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt. The salt will not only enhance the flavor of the meat but also help to tenderize it. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best results.
3. Add black pepper: Along with salt, freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick of flavor to the steak. Grind some pepper over both sides of the steak, or you can use a pepper mill if you prefer.
4. Optional seasonings: If desired, you can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs to your taste. These seasonings will add depth and complexity to the flavor of the steak.
5. Let it rest: After seasoning, let the steak rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and helps to bring the steak to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
6. Lightly coat with oil: Just before cooking, lightly brush or drizzle the steak with oil. This will prevent it from sticking to the cast iron skillet and help create a delicious crust on the steak.
7. Gently press the seasonings: Using your hands, press the salt, pepper, and other seasonings onto the steak to ensure they adhere well. This also helps to create a flavorful crust on the surface of the steak.
Remember, the seasonings you choose can vary depending on your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to find the perfect seasoning for your steak.
Cooking the Steak
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet: Place the skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 5 minutes until it becomes hot. This will help to sear the steak effectively.
2. Season the steak: While the skillet is heating up, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs for extra flavor. Make sure to press the seasonings into the steak to ensure they stick.
3. Add oil to the skillet: Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of cooking oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil to the skillet. Use enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, but be careful not to use too much oil as it can cause the steak to steam instead of sear.
4. Sear the steak: Carefully place the seasoned steak onto the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound when the steak hits the pan. Allow the steak to cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak to its other side, and make sure to sear the edges as well.
5. Check the doneness: To check the doneness of the steak, you can use a meat thermometer. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C), while a medium steak should be around 145°F (63°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook as it rests, so you can remove it from the skillet when the internal temperature is a few degrees lower than your desired doneness.
6. Let the steak rest: Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board or plate. Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it. This will help the juices redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy steak.
7. Serve and enjoy: After the steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin strips. Serve the steak immediately and enjoy it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your stove’s heat settings. It may take a few attempts to perfect the cooking process, but with practice, you’ll be able to cook a delicious steak on a cast iron skillet on your stove.
Rest and Enjoy
Once you have finished cooking your steak, it’s important to let it rest before digging in. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Remove the steak from the cast iron skillet and place it on a cutting board or a plate. Tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the temperature of the steak will continue to rise by a few degrees, resulting in a perfectly cooked piece of meat.
While the steak is resting, take a moment to prepare any side dishes or sauces that you’ll be serving with your meal. This is also a good time to set the table and gather any additional condiments or toppings you’d like to enjoy with your steak.
After the resting period, your steak is ready to be sliced and served. Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain for the most tender and flavorful results. Arrange the slices on a plate and serve immediately. Be sure to savor each bite and enjoy the result of your efforts!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook steak on a cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook steak on a cast iron skillet is to preheat the skillet on high heat, season the steak with salt and pepper, and sear it for a few minutes on each side until it gets a nice crust. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until desired doneness.
Do I need to use oil when cooking steak on a cast iron skillet?
Yes, it is recommended to use a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil when cooking steak on a cast iron skillet. Coat the skillet with a thin layer of oil before searing the steak to prevent it from sticking and help achieve a nice crust.
How long should I cook a steak on a cast iron skillet?
The cooking time for a steak on a cast iron skillet depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 1-inch thick steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes per side for medium. Adjust the time accordingly based on your preference.
Can I use butter instead of oil for cooking steak on a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use butter instead of oil for cooking steak on a cast iron skillet. Butter adds a rich flavor and can help create a beautiful caramelized crust. However, it has a lower smoke point than oil, so you may need to be careful not to burn the butter. Using a combination of butter and oil can also be a good option.
