Steak is a universally loved food that can be cooked in numerous ways. One of the most popular methods is cooking it in a cast iron skillet. There’s something about the sizzling sound of the steak hitting the skillet that makes it all the more appetizing.
Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet can be intimidating for first-timers, however. It’s a delicate process that requires patience and finesse to get it just right. To help you achieve the perfect steak, we have put together a guide on how long to cook a steak on each side in a cast iron skillet. Read on to find out more!
Preparing Your Cast Iron Skillet for Steak Cooking
Preparing your cast iron skillet before cooking steak is crucial to ensuring that your steak turns out perfectly juicy and tender. First, make sure to clean your skillet thoroughly. If you have a seasoned skillet, avoid using soap and instead rinse it with hot water and scrub it with a stiff brush. If your skillet is new or not seasoned, you may want to use a small amount of soap to clean it.
After cleaning, make sure your skillet is completely dry before heating it up. Preheat your skillet over high heat for at least 5 minutes. This will ensure that your skillet is evenly heated before cooking. Once heated, add a small amount of oil to the skillet and let it heat up for an additional minute. This will help prevent your steak from sticking to the skillet and make it easier to flip. Now you are ready to start cooking your steak!
Choosing the Right Steak for Your Cast Iron Skillet
Choosing the perfect cut of steak is the first step to ensuring a delicious meal when cooking in a cast iron skillet. The best cuts of beef for this cooking method are those that are high in fat and have great marbling. These qualities help to keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process.
Some of the best options for cooking in a cast iron skillet include ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon. These cuts offer a great balance of flavor and tenderness that work well with the intense heat of the skillet. When selecting a steak, it’s important to look for cuts that are at least one-inch thick as thinner cuts tend to cook too quickly and become tough. By choosing the right steak for your cast iron skillet, you’ll be well on your way to a mouth-watering meal that’s sure to impress.
Measuring the Temperature of Your Cast Iron Skillet
Measuring the Temperature of Your Cast Iron Skillet is an essential step in cooking the perfect steak. A cast iron skillet takes some time to heat up, but once it is hot, it retains heat extremely well. To measure the temperature of your skillet, you can use a simple trick. Pour a few drops of water onto the skillet. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, your skillet is hot enough to cook the steak. However, if the water just sits there and doesn’t sizzle, your skillet is not hot enough yet, and you need to give it some more time to heat up.
Another way to measure the temperature of your skillet is to use an infrared thermometer. Simply point the thermometer at the surface of the skillet, and it will give you an accurate reading of the temperature. A temperature of around 375°F to 400°F is perfect for cooking steak. Remember, the temperature of the skillet should be high enough to sear the steak, but not so hot that it burns the outside of the steak while leaving the inside undercooked. So, make sure you measure the temperature of your skillet before cooking the steak to get it right.
The Perfect Steak: Tips for Achieving the Ideal Cook Time
Achieving the perfect cook time for a steak can be a challenging task, as it requires a combination of factors, including the cut of steak, skillet temperature, and personal preference. To ensure the ideal cook time, we suggest starting with a room temperature steak and a preheated cast iron skillet. Before cooking, season the steak generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Once you add the steak to the skillet, resist the urge to move it around and let it sear for 2-3 minutes before flipping. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak will require about 4-5 minutes of total cook time for medium-rare doneness. However, the best way to determine the ideal cook time is by using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the steak should reach an internal temperature of 135°F.
How to Sear a Steak in Your Cast Iron Skillet
Searing a steak in a cast iron skillet is not only a great way to achieve that perfectly browned crust, but it also locks in the flavor and juices of the meat. To start, make sure your skillet is hot. Preheat it on high heat for at least 5 minutes. You can test if the skillet is hot enough by sprinkling a few drops of water on it. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, it’s ready.
Next, season your steak generously with salt and pepper. Add a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed, to the skillet and swirl it around. Then, carefully place the steak in the skillet and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side. Resist the urge to move or flip the steak during this time. After that, use tongs to flip the steak to the other side and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. For a more thorough cooking process, finish cooking the steak in the oven. This process will give you a beautifully caramelized and juicy steak that is sure to impress.
Resting and Serving Your Steak from the Cast Iron Skillet
After cooking your steak on both sides, it is imperative to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, making it more succulent and flavorful. To do this, transfer the steak to a cutting board and cover it loosely with aluminum foil, letting it rest for 5-10 minutes.
Once the steak has rested, it is ready to be sliced and served. Use a sharp knife to cut the steak across the grain into thin slices, about ½ inch thick. This helps to ensure the tenderness and juiciness of the steak. Pair your steak with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the delicious flavors that come with a perfectly cooked cast iron skillet steak.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet for Future Steak Cooking.
Cleaning and maintaining your cast iron skillet is crucial for ensuring successful future steak cooking. The first step in cleaning your skillet is to let it cool down after cooking. Never submerge a hot skillet in water as it can cause it to warp or crack.
Once cooled, use warm water, a stiff brush, and a drop of dish soap to gently scrub the skillet. Avoid using harsh abrasives or steel wool as they can damage the seasoning on the skillet. Dry the skillet thoroughly with a clean towel and then apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the surface to prevent rusting.
To maintain your skillet’s seasoning, avoid using soap every time you clean it as it can strip away the seasoning. Instead, use salt and oil to scrub the skillet if necessary. Never leave the skillet soaking in water and always store it in a dry place. With proper cleaning and maintenance, your cast iron skillet can last for generations and become your go-to tool for cooking the perfect steak.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the perfect steak in a cast iron skillet requires some practice and patience, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to create delicious, restaurant-quality steaks in the comfort of your own home. Remember to prepare your steak properly by seasoning it well and allowing it to come to room temperature before cooking. Use a high smoke point oil and preheat your skillet to ensure a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Timing is crucial when cooking steak, and the amount of time you cook it on each side will depend on the thickness of your cut, the level of doneness you prefer, and the heat of your skillet. With a little bit of experimentation and attention to the details, you can master the art of cooking the perfect steak and impress your friends and family at your next dinner party. So, grab your cast iron skillet, some good quality steak, and get cooking!