How To Cook The Perfect Steak At Home

Did you know you can achieve the perfect steakhouse-quality steak right at home? There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak—juicy, flavorful, and finished with a beautifully seared crust. And the best part? It’s easier than you think! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this method will make you feel like a steakhouse chef in your own kitchen.

*Pin this recipe for your next steak night!*

Here’s What You’ll Need To Cook The Perfect Steak:

• Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut like NY strip, ribeye, or filet mignon.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the beef shine.
• Garlic Powder: optional, adds extra depth of flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps get that perfect sear.
• Unsalted Butter: For basting and added richness.
• Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: Infuses flavor while basting.
• Garlic Cloves: Adds aromatic depth to the butter.

Why You’ll Love To Make The Perfect Steak:

• Super Easy to Make – Quick and simple steps to achieve steakhouse-quality results.
• Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Just a few key ingredients bring out the steak’s natural deliciousness.
• Cost-Effective – Enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak at home for a fraction of the price of dining out at a steakhouse.

Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked steak—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. With the right technique, achieving this delicious result at home is easier than you think. Whether you’re a fan of a classic ribeye or prefer the leaner cut of filet mignon, mastering the art of a perfectly cooked steak is within your reach.

How to Cook the Perfect Steak

Step 1: Prep the Steak

• Bring the steak to room temperature (about 30 minutes) to ensure even cooking.
• Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps with creating the perfect crust.
• Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper. I like to use kosher salt.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

• Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
• Add a small amount of olive oil to coat the pan.
• If the steak has a fat cap, start by searing the fat side first to render some of the fat.
• Sear one side for 4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
• Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 more minutes for a medium finish.

Step 3: Baste for Flavor

• Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter, rosemary, and garlic cloves to the pan.
• Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter for about 1 minute.

Step 4: Rest & Slice

• Transfer the steak to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Slice against the grain for the most tender bite.

Serving Suggestions

This steak is perfect on its own or served with:

• Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
• Asparagus
• Brussels Sprout Caesar Salad
• Maple Glased Brussels Sprouts

The Perfect Steak Cooking Tips

• Bring to Room Temperature: Let your steak sit out for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
• Simple Seasonings: Just salt and pepper—no need to overcomplicate it.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: highly recommend cooking in a cast iron skillet. Ideal for that crispy, golden crust
• Kosher Salt: Kosher salt has larger crystals than regular table salt, making it easier to control the seasoning and helping form a flavorful crust.
• Basting Brings Flavor: Adding butter and aromatics like rosemary, and garlic while the steak cooks not only keeps it juicy but makes the steak rich and flavorful.
• Use a meat thermometer: For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. See notes below, for a doneness guide.

If you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to save this recipe for your next steak night! Perfect for date night in.

More Steak Recipes To Try

• Easy Loaded Steak Fries
• Crispy, Cheesy Queso Steak Tacos
• The Best Pineapple Steak Bowl
• Caramelized Onion & Arugula Steak Sandwich

Mastering the perfect steak doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right technique, you’ll get a juicy, flavorful bite every time. If you try this method, let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @cookwithci—I’d love to see how it turns out!

Did you make it? 

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