Few things in life are as satisfying as cutting into a perfectly cooked steak: crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. For anyone following the Carnivore Diet, mastering the art of cooking steak isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about cooking the perfect steak, from choosing the right cut to achieving that ideal crust and doneness. Get ready to elevate your steak game and make every bite unforgettable.
1. Choosing the Right Cut
Not all steaks are created equal. Selecting the right cut depends on your preference for flavor, tenderness, and fat content.
Popular Cuts of Steak:
- Ribeye: Rich, juicy, and full of marbling, making it one of the most flavorful cuts.
- New York Strip: Leaner than ribeye but still tender, with a good balance of flavor and texture.
- Filet Mignon: The most tender cut, with a buttery texture but less fat and flavor.
- T-Bone/Porterhouse: A combination of tenderloin and strip steak in one, offering two textures in a single cut.
- Sirloin: Affordable and lean, with good flavor when cooked properly.
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor and tenderness, opt for well-marbled cuts like ribeye or strip steak.
2. Prepping Your Steak
The way you prepare your steak before it hits the heat can make all the difference.
Key Steps:
- Bring to Room Temperature: Take the steak out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Pat Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy crust.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle both sides with coarse salt. Add fresh ground black pepper, if desired, after cooking to prevent burning.
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, season with garlic powder or smoked paprika before cooking.
3. Choosing the Right Cooking Method
Different cooking methods can yield equally delicious results, depending on your tools and preferences.
Popular Cooking Methods:
- Cast-Iron Skillet (Best for Home Cooks):
- Heat the skillet until smoking hot. Add butter, ghee, or tallow for flavor and sear each side for 2–3 minutes.
- Finish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for thicker cuts.
- Grilling (Best for Outdoor Cooking):
- Preheat the grill to high heat and cook each side for 3–4 minutes. For thicker cuts, move to indirect heat to finish cooking.
- Reverse Sear (Best for Consistent Results):
- Cook the steak in a low oven (250°F/120°C) or smoker until it reaches 10°F below your desired doneness. Finish with a hot sear in a skillet or on the grill.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
4. Understanding Doneness
Getting the doneness right is the hallmark of a perfectly cooked steak.
Temperature Guide for Steak Doneness:
- Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C) – Cool red center.
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C) – Warm red center (most popular choice).
- Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C) – Warm pink center.
- Medium-Well: 150–155°F (65–68°C) – Slightly pink center.
- Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+) – Fully cooked, no pink.
Pro Tip: Remove the steak from the heat when it’s 5°F below your target temperature; it will continue to cook as it rests.
5. Resting is Non-Negotiable
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy steak.
How to Rest a Steak:
- Place the steak on a cutting board and loosely cover it with foil.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tip: Slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
6. Enhancing Your Steak
While a perfectly cooked steak is delicious on its own, a few finishing touches can elevate it further.
Popular Enhancements:
- Compound Butter: Mix softened butter with garlic, herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme), and salt. Add a dollop to the steak right before serving.
- Pan Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with beef broth or bone broth and whisk in butter for a simple sauce.
- Crispy Tallow Drizzle: Drizzle rendered beef tallow over the steak for added richness.
Troubleshooting Common Steak Issues
- Problem: Steak is dry or tough.
- Solution: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and choose cuts with more marbling for added juiciness.
- Problem: Steak is underseasoned.
- Solution: Season generously with coarse salt before cooking and adjust after resting.
- Problem: Steak doesn’t have a good crust.
- Solution: Ensure the steak is dry before searing, and use a high-heat cooking method like a cast-iron skillet.
Closing Thoughts
Cooking the perfect steak is an art that anyone can master with a little practice and the right techniques. By selecting quality cuts, paying attention to doneness, and adding your personal touch, you can create a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing friends and family, the tips in this guide will help you achieve steak perfection every time. So fire up the skillet or grill and enjoy the masterpiece on your plate!
