Pan Seared Steak + Steak Meal Prep Ideas
Rebecca
The first time I tried cooking a pan-seared steak, I couldn't believe that something so delicious could be made right in my kitchen. The sizzling sound of steak hitting a hot pan and the rich aroma filling the air had me hooked from the start.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 8 minutes mins
Total Time 18 minutes mins
- Ribeye or New York strip steak
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic cloves
Start by patting your steak dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust, as any moisture on the meat causes it to steam instead of sear. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. While the steak rests, prepare your garlic cloves and have your butter ready to go. 🧄
Place your skillet over high heat and allow it to get very hot. Add a drizzle of olive oil and give it a moment to shimmer. You’ll know it’s ready when a droplet of water instantly sizzles upon hitting the pan. 🔥
Carefully lay the steak in the skillet. Don’t move it for the first 2-3 minutes; this helps create that signature crust. Flip it using tongs, and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
Add butter and garlic to the pan during the final minutes. Spoon the melted butter over the steak to baste it, infusing the meat with rich flavors. 🍳
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is key to letting the juices redistribute throughout the meat. When slicing the steak, be sure to cut against the grain for extra tenderness.
- Room Temperature Steak: Before cooking, allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Choose the Right Oil: Use high smoke-point oils like canola or avocado oil for the initial sear, as they won’t burn like olive oil at high temperatures.
- Invest in a Good Thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak, check the internal temperature. Rare is 125°F, medium-rare is 135°F, and medium is 145°F.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Resting allows the juices to settle, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Keyword Pan Seared Steak Steak Meal Prep Ideas