Cooking steak can seem daunting, but mastering the art of achieving a perfectly seared and juicy piece of meat is one of the most rewarding culinary skills you can develop. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, knowing how to cook steak on the stove opens up a world of possibilities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process using two 12-14 ounce New York Strip Steaks or Ribeyes, ensuring that you create a flavorful masterpiece that will impress anyone at your table.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
There’s something inherently satisfying about slicing into a beautifully cooked steak. The rich aroma, the enticing sizzle, and the tender bite all come together to create an experience that’s hard to resist. Steaks are versatile; they can be enjoyed on their own, paired with sides, or incorporated into a variety of dishes. Cooking steak on the stove allows you to achieve that perfect sear while maintaining control over the cooking process, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredient List
- 2 12-14 ounce New York Strip Steaks or Ribeyes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 to 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, crushed
- 4 to 6 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 to 3 sprigs of rosemary
- 6 to 8 leaves of fresh sage
- 1 peeled shallot, sliced in half
- Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
Essential Tools for Success
- Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Ideal for achieving a great sear and even cooking.
- Tongs: For flipping the steak without piercing it and losing juices.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness every time.
- Cutting Board: For resting the steak after cooking.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the steak against the grain for tenderness.
How to Cook Steak on the Stove: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by taking your steaks out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to come to room temperature, which is essential for even cooking. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place your cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes until it’s smoking hot. This high heat is crucial for developing a nice crust on the steak.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil
Once the pan is hot, add the olive oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. The oil should shimmer immediately upon contact with the pan.
Step 4: Sear the Steaks
Carefully place the steaks in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. You should hear a satisfying sizzle. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing a crust to form.
Step 5: Flip and Add Flavor
Using tongs, flip the steaks over. At this point, add the unsalted butter, crushed garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, sage, and the halved shallot to the pan. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the flavorful mixture. This enhances the steak with rich, aromatic flavors.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Continue to cook the steaks for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Step 7: Rest the Steaks
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the steaks against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve them with the pan juices drizzled over the top and enjoy!
Swap Guide
- If you prefer a different cut of steak, feel free to use filet mignon or sirloin.
- For a non-dairy option, substitute vegan butter for the unsalted butter.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs (about 1 teaspoon each) can work in a pinch.
- For a different flavor profile, try adding smoked paprika or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
Chef’s Notes
- Always allow your steak to rest after cooking. This step is crucial for juicy results!
- Feel free to customize the herbs based on your preferences; fresh oregano or parsley can also add delicious flavor.
- Experiment with different cooking times depending on the thickness of your steaks.
- For a delightful twist, serve your steak alongside Garlic Butter Steak With Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni for a complete meal.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prepare your steaks by seasoning them and letting them sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This enhances the flavor. Cooked steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Quick Q&A
How do I know when my steak is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for 130°F (54°C); medium is 140°F (60°C); and well-done is 160°F (71°C).
Can I cook steak without a cast iron skillet?
Yes! A heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan can work well too. Just ensure it can withstand high temperatures.
What should I serve with my steak?
Steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. For a unique take, consider pairing it with Sweet Chili Garlic Steak Bites With Coconut Rice.
Is it necessary to let the steak rest?
Yes! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making for a more tender and flavorful steak.
Next Steps
Now that you know how to cook steak on the stove, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps carefully, and soon you’ll be enjoying a succulent steak right from your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with flavors and sides to truly make the dish your own. Happy cooking!
How to Cook Steak on the Stove
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients - Take steaks out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Heat the Pan - Preheat your skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes until smoking hot.
- Step 3: Add Olive Oil - Once hot, add olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Step 4: Sear the Steaks - Place the steaks in the pan without overcrowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Step 5: Flip and Add Flavor - Flip the steaks, add butter, garlic, herbs, and shallot. Baste the steaks with melted butter.
- Step 6: Check for Doneness - Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until reaching your desired doneness.
- Step 7: Rest the Steaks - Remove from pan, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 8: Slice and Serve - Slice against the grain and serve with pan juices.
Notes
- Allow your steak to rest after cooking for juicier results.
- Customize herbs based on preference; fresh oregano or parsley can add great flavor.
- Different cooking times may be needed depending on steak thickness.
