10 Ways to Make Steaks Delicious

Steak is one of the most popular and satisfying dishes you can make at home. Whether you prefer it grilled, pan-fried, or broiled, there are many ways to enhance the flavor and texture of your steak. In this post, we will share 10 easy and delicious tips to make your steak even more mouthwatering.

1. Choose the right cut of steak

The first step to making a great steak is choosing the right cut of meat. Different cuts have different levels of tenderness, marbling, and flavor. Some of the best cuts for steak are ribeye, strip, filet mignon, sirloin, and flank1. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose the cut that suits your taste and cooking method.

2. Season your steak well

Seasoning your steak is essential to bring out its natural flavor and create a nice crust. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper, or add some herbs, spices, garlic, or onion powder for extra flavor. Season your steak generously on both sides, and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking2.

3. Use a cast-iron skillet or a grill

The best way to cook your steak is to use a cast-iron skillet or a grill. Both methods provide high and even heat, which sears the steak quickly and creates a caramelized crust. A cast-iron skillet also retains heat well, so you can finish cooking your steak in the oven if needed3. A grill adds a smoky flavor and char marks to your steak, which enhances its appearance and taste4.

4. Cook your steak to your desired doneness

The doneness of your steak depends on how long you cook it and what internal temperature it reaches. The most common levels of doneness are rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, and well-done. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of your steak, or use the finger test to estimate the doneness by feeling the firmness of the meat. Here are the approximate temperatures and cooking times for each level of doneness:

  • Rare: 125°F (52°C), 2 minutes per side
  • Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C), 3 minutes per side
  • Medium: 145°F (63°C), 4 minutes per side
  • Medium-well: 150°F (66°C), 5 minutes per side
  • Well-done: 160°F (71°C), 6 minutes per side

5. Rest your steak before serving

One of the most important steps to making a juicy and tender steak is to let it rest before serving. Resting your steak allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, and prevents them from spilling out when you cut into it. Rest your steak on a cutting board or a plate, loosely covered with foil, for about 10 minutes after cooking.

6. Slice your steak against the grain

Slicing your steak against the grain means cutting it perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. This makes the steak easier to chew and more tender, as it shortens the fibers and breaks down the connective tissue. This is especially important for tougher cuts like flank or skirt steak, which have more pronounced grains.

7. Make a sauce or a topping for your steak

A sauce or a topping can add more flavor and moisture to your steak, and complement its natural taste. There are many options to choose from, such as mushroom sauce, blue cheese sauce, chimichurri, herb butter, or salsa. You can make your own sauce or topping, or use a store-bought one. Serve your sauce or topping on the side, or spoon it over your steak.

8. Pair your steak with the right sides

A steak dinner is not complete without some delicious sides. The best sides for steak are the ones that balance its richness and heaviness, and provide some contrast in texture and color. Some of the classic sides for steak are baked or mashed potatoes, green beans, asparagus, salad, or bread. You can also try some more creative sides, such as roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, coleslaw, or rice.

9. Marinate your steak for more flavor and tenderness

Marinating your steak is a great way to infuse it with more flavor and tenderness. A marinade usually consists of an acid, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or wine, a fat, such as oil or butter, and some seasonings, such as herbs, spices, garlic, or soy sauce. Marinating your steak can also help it retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. Marinate your steak in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours before cooking.

10. Try some different recipes and variations

Steak is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes and variations. You can try some different cuisines, such as Asian, Mexican, or French, or some different dishes, such as steak salad, steak sandwich, or steak and eggs. You can also experiment with some different flavors, such as teriyaki, barbecue, or bourbon. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and enjoy your steak.

I hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading, and happy cooking! 😊