There's nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak. Whether it's the crispy crust, juicy interior, or the irresistible flavor, a great steak can elevate any meal to new heights. However, many people shy away from cooking steak at home, worried they won’t achieve that restaurant-quality perfection. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best steak you’ll ever have—right in your own kitchen. From selecting the ideal cut to mastering cooking techniques, this post has you covered.
The journey to a perfect steak starts with selecting the right cut. Different cuts offer unique flavors and textures, and the best choice depends on personal preference and cooking method.
When possible, go for high-quality, grass-fed beef, as it tends to have better flavor and texture.
A great steak doesn’t need a lot of ingredients. In fact, simplicity often brings out the best flavors. Here are the basics you’ll need:
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Avoid table salt; instead, opt for kosher or sea salt for better texture and flavor.
Bringing your steak to room temperature ensures even cooking. Take it out of the fridge 30-60 minutes before cooking, depending on the thickness.
For a great crust, don’t be shy with the seasoning. Use salt and pepper liberally, as some will come off during cooking. Pat the seasoning into the steak gently with your hands.
For a rich, golden-brown crust, use a cast-iron skillet or grill that can reach high temperatures. Preheat the pan or grill for several minutes until it’s very hot.
Pan-searing is one of the most popular methods for cooking steak. Here’s how to do it right:
Reverse searing is a technique where you cook the steak at a low temperature first, then finish with a high-heat sear. This method results in a juicy, evenly cooked interior.
If you prefer a smoky, char-grilled flavor, grilling is the way to go:
The perfect doneness varies by personal preference, but a meat thermometer ensures accuracy. Here’s a quick guide:
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak for accurate results.
Letting the steak rest after cooking is essential. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bite. Cover the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
A beautifully cooked steak deserves an equally impressive presentation. Here are a few ideas:
Here’s how to avoid some of the most common steak-cooking mistakes:
Cooking the perfect steak doesn’t have to be intimidating. Once you master the basics, you can experiment with different seasonings, cooking methods, and sides to make the dish truly your own. Remember, practice makes perfect, and every attempt will bring you closer to that ultimate steak experience.
This recipe walks you through creating the best steak you've ever had. With simple ingredients and expert techniques, achieve a restaurant-quality steak right in your own kitchen. Perfectly seared on the outside and juicy on the inside, this steak is a showstopper for any meal.
Rinse and sort the kidney beans. Soak the beans in a large pot of water for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
Drain and rinse the beans. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) 🔥.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion 🧅, bell pepper, and garlic 🧄, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add the oregano, basil, salt 🧂, and black pepper, and stir to combine.
Add the tomato sauce 🍅 and cooked beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
Spread the bean mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the vegan cheese 🧀 shreds and vegan parmesan cheese on top.
Bake for 10-15 minutes 🕒, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot ♨ and enjoy!
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
You can also use other types of beans in this recipe, such as black beans or pinto beans.
Feel free to get creative and add your favorite pizza toppings to the mix!
