How To Pan Fry Steak In Stainless Steel Pan

How to Pan Fry Steak in a Stainless Steel Pan

If you’re a steak lover, then you know there’s nothing quite like a perfectly pan-fried steak. The crispy sear on the outside and the juicy, tender inside make for a truly satisfying meal. While many people opt for non-stick pans, using a stainless steel pan can give your steak a delicious crust and a perfect cook. Here’s how to pan fry steak in a stainless steel pan to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Choose the Right Cut of Steak

Before you start cooking, it’s important to select the right cut of steak. Look for well-marbled cuts like ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon. The marbling will add flavor and juiciness to your steak.

Prepare the Steak

Before you start cooking, take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help achieve a better sear.

Season the Steak

Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Preheat the Stainless Steel Pan

Place your stainless steel pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Let it preheat for a few minutes until it’s hot. You can test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water into the pan – if the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the pan is ready.

Add Oil to the Pan

Once the pan is hot, add a high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat the bottom evenly.

Sear the Steak

Carefully place the seasoned steak in the hot pan. Let it cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes to develop a nice sear. Use tongs to flip the steak and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the time based on your desired level of doneness.

Rest the Steak

Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

Slice and Serve

After resting, slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

With these simple steps, you can achieve a perfectly pan-fried steak using a stainless steel pan. Experiment with different seasonings and cuts of steak to find your favorite combination, and soon you’ll be cooking restaurant-quality steaks in the comfort of your own kitchen.