Are you ready to take your grilling skills to the next level? If so, then learning how to cook steak on a grill skillet is a must! While grilling steak on an open flame is always a classic option, using a grill skillet can add a whole new level of flavor and texture to your steak. Whether you prefer a perfectly seared steak or a juicy medium-rare cut, mastering the art of cooking steak on a grill skillet will make you the ultimate grill master.
Why use a grill skillet?
Grill skillets are made of heavy-duty materials, such as cast iron, which are perfect for retaining and evenly dispersing heat. This means that your steak will cook more evenly and have a deliciously seared crust. Additionally, the grill skillet allows you to capture all the juices and flavors of the steak, creating a mouthwatering experience that you won’t want to miss.
Preparation is key
Before you start grilling your steak, make sure to properly prepare it. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will ensure that your steak cooks evenly and prevents it from being too cold on the inside. Season the steak with your favorite spices or marinade, allowing it to soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Let the grill skillet heat up
Turn your grill skillet on to medium-high heat and let it heat up for at least 5 minutes. This will ensure that the skillet is hot enough to sear the steak and create those beautiful grill marks. You can also lightly oil the skillet to prevent the steak from sticking.
Grill Skillet Steak Recipe
If you don’t have access to a grill and still want to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak, using a grill skillet is a great alternative. A grill skillet allows you to replicate the delicious charred flavor and grill marks of a traditional grill, right on your stovetop. Follow these simple steps to cook a mouthwatering steak using a grill skillet.
Ingredients:
- 1 steak of your choice (ribeye, striploin, or sirloin)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Begin by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat your grill skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet and spread it evenly.
- Gently place the seasoned steak onto the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzling sound as the steak makes contact with the skillet. This is a good sign!
- Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, without moving it around. This will allow a nice crust to form.
- Flip the steak over using a pair of tongs and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C).
- Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Using a grill skillet gives you the opportunity to enjoy a perfectly cooked steak even without a traditional grill. Whether you prefer a juicy ribeye or a tender striploin, this recipe will help you achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. Happy grilling!
Preparing the Skillet
Before cooking your steak on a grill skillet, it is important to properly prepare the skillet to ensure the best results. Here are some steps to follow:
Step 1: Seasoning the Skillet
- Start by washing the skillet with warm soapy water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Once clean, dry the skillet thoroughly with a towel.
- Next, season the skillet by rubbing a light coat of cooking oil onto its surface.
- Use a paper towel to evenly spread the oil and remove any excess.
- This seasoning process helps create a non-stick surface and prevents food from sticking.
Step 2: Preheating the Skillet
- Place the skillet on the grill and preheat it over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.
- Allow the skillet to get hot so that the steak can sear properly.
- You can test if the skillet is hot enough by splashing a few drops of water onto its surface.
- If the water evaporates immediately, the skillet is ready for cooking.
By properly seasoning and preheating the skillet, you can ensure that your steak cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust on the outside.
Seasoning and Preparing the Steak
Before cooking your steak on the grill skillet, it’s important to season it properly to enhance the flavor. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Choose Your Seasoning
Start by selecting the seasoning that best complements the type of steak you’re preparing. Common seasonings for steak include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite blend.
2. Prepare the Steak
Prior to seasoning the steak, you should let it come to room temperature. This helps the meat cook more evenly. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes before seasoning.
Once the steak is at room temperature, pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Seasoning adheres better to a dry surface, resulting in a more flavorful crust.
3. Apply the Seasoning
Sprinkle the chosen seasoning evenly over both sides of the steak. Be generous with the seasoning, but be careful not to go overboard, as it can overpower the natural flavors of the meat.
Using your hands, gently press the seasoning into the surface of the steak to ensure it adheres well. Flip the steak and repeat the process on the other side.
4. Let the Steak Rest
After seasoning the steak, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall flavor.
Place the seasoned steak on a plate or cutting board and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will also give you time to preheat your grill skillet to the optimal temperature.
Now that your steak is seasoned and ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking it on the grill skillet.
Cooking the Steak
1. Preheat the grill skillet. Place the skillet on the grill or stovetop and preheat it over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet gets hot enough to sear the steak.
2. Season the steak. Generously season both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings. Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Oil the skillet. Lightly coat the skillet with cooking oil to prevent the steak from sticking. Use a brush or a folded piece of paper towel to evenly distribute the oil.
4. Sear the steak. Carefully place the seasoned steak on the hot skillet. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip the steak and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Check the doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, aim for around 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook as it rests.
6. Rest the steak. Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board or a plate and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the steak juicier and more flavorful.
7. Slice and serve. Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices. Serve it immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy! Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and personal preference.
Steak Doneness | Internal Temperature |
---|---|
Rare | 125°F (52°C) |
Medium-rare | 135°F (57°C) |
Medium | 145°F (63°C) |
Medium-well | 155°F (68°C) |
Well done | 160°F (71°C) |
FAQ
What is the best cut of steak for grilling?
The best cut of steak for grilling is a thick and well-marbled cut, such as a ribeye or a New York strip steak.
How long should I cook a steak on a grill?
Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you can cook a 1-inch thick steak to medium-rare in about 4-5 minutes per side.
Do I need to marinate the steak before grilling?
While marinating the steak can add extra flavor, it is not necessary. A properly seasoned steak with just salt and pepper can be delicious on its own.