How To Cook Steak In A Grill Pan

Mastering the Art of Cooking Steak in a Grill Pan

Grilling is not always reserved for outdoor barbecues. With a grill pan, you can achieve that delicious charred flavor and juicy texture right in your own kitchen. If you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak but don’t have access to an outdoor grill, fear not! With a few simple steps, you can become a grill pan master and savor a mouthwatering steak every time.

Choose the Right Cut of Steak

The first step to cooking a steak in a grill pan is choosing the right cut. Opt for a tender and well-marbled steak, such as ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon. These cuts are rich in flavor and tend to cook more evenly.

Prepare the Steak

Before you start cooking, make sure your steak is at room temperature. This allows for even cooking throughout. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will prevent the steak from developing a beautiful sear. For added flavor, season the steak generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning blend. Let the steak sit for about 30 minutes so that the flavors can penetrate the meat.

Preheat the Grill Pan

Place your grill pan on the stovetop and preheat it over medium-high heat. A well-heated grill pan is essential for achieving those appetizing grill marks and creating a caramelized crust on the steak.

Oil it Up

While the grill pan is heating, lightly brush or drizzle a high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil, over both sides of the steak. This will help prevent sticking and facilitate the searing process. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and may burn.

Sear the Steak

Once the grill pan is hot enough, carefully place the steak onto the pan. Make sure to lay it down so that it’s perpendicular to the grill marks, as this will create those beautiful diamond patterns. Let the steak cook undisturbed for a few minutes to allow the caramelization process to begin. Use tongs to flip the steak and repeat the process on the other side.

Check for Doneness

Using an instant-read meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. For rare, the temperature should be around 120°F (49°C), medium-rare 130°F (54°C), medium 140°F (60°C), medium-well 150°F (65°C), and well-done 160°F (71°C).

Rest and Enjoy

Once the steak reaches your preferred doneness, remove it from the grill pan and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and flavorful steak. Cut the steak against the grain into thin slices and savor every delicious bite.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking steak in a grill pan, you can satisfy your steak cravings any time of the year. So, fire up that grill pan, grab your favorite cut of steak, and indulge in a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your home.