Nothing beats a succulent beef tenderloin for marking a birthday, festive occasion, or wrapping up a grueling workweek, and a
pepper-crusted ribeye
or
tender flank steak
does just the trick. But if you’re among the home cooks who don’t know how to make steak, have no fear. Many folks who feel quite comfortable in the kitchen otherwise are guilty of cooking dry, tough meat. Read on to avoid the most common mistakes, and get ready to cook the perfect steak every time. By the way, here’s how to
How to prepare a medium-rare steak?
the right way.
Error 1: Failing to use seasoning
You might worry about over-seasoning your steak or making it overly salty, yet we assure you that being cautious isn’t beneficial here. As you cannot enhance the inside flavor, holding back could result in missing out on deep tastes and a robust exterior.
What to do instead:
Generously season the meat on both sides approximately 35 to 40 minutes prior to cooking. For inspiration,
take a look at our top picks for homemade spice mixes
.
Error 2: Cooking Steak When It Is Cold
Learning to cook steak can test your patience, but taking shortcuts like throwing a chilled piece of beef directly onto the grill isn’t wise. Always plan ahead so the meat has enough time at room temperature before cooking begins. Placing a cold steak right into heat will likely result in an unbalanced cook; chances are high for the exterior to get charred while the interior stays raw.
What to do instead:
Depending on how your meat is sliced, let it rest from 30 minutes up to 2 hours at room temperature. In the meantime, hold off hunger with some appetizers.
The starters we just can’t resist eating.
.
Error 3: Selecting an incorrect cut
Selecting a steak isn’t as straightforward as picking one up from the refrigerated section and proceeding to pay. With numerous types available, each requires different cooking methods. A T-bone, for example, excels when grilled, whereas a boneless ribeye achieves optimal taste in a skillet due to its marbling. Uniformly treating every type of steak might prevent you from experiencing their full potential flavors.
What to do instead
: Familiarize yourself with different cuts and your favored cooking method. Should you find yourself unsure about your preferred cut, a skilled butcher would be delighted to offer guidance and suggestions! Interested in experimenting further with various cuts?
Cook up our beloved steak dishes.
Error 4: Selecting a trim cut
When it comes to lean cuts, they have their moment and purpose, but steak night definitely isn’t it. These lean pieces often end up being both chewy and bland because fat is responsible for much of the taste. If you aim to cook something less heavy, rely on your grilling expertise and opt for alternative dishes instead.
grilled honey-lime chicken
.)
What to do instead:
Choose a steak that has plenty of marbling (the fat appearing as white speckles and streaks). While it might cost you more, the enhanced tenderness and moisture make it worthwhile.
Error 5: Flipping the Steak Only Once
It’s a widespread misunderstanding that flipping a steak only once is key to keeping it tender and juicy. Although this technique might result in appealing grill marks, it won’t necessarily make your steak tastier. Actually, using this approach could lead to over-drying the meat.
What to do instead:
Develop the practice of flipping your steak several times during cooking, particularly when using high heat. Frequent turns can speed up the cooking process by up to 30% compared to only flipping once. This technique ensures your steak stays juicy. Additionally, it promotes even cooking and minimizes edge-curling.
Test Kitchen tip:
It’s crucial to utilize tongs rather than a fork for flipping your meat.
Error 6: Limiting Yourself to Supermarket Options
It’s logical to buy meat along with the rest of your grocery items, but if you aim to prepare an impressive steak, take that additional step. For cooking at a professional level, rely on an expert to assist you in getting started.
What to do instead:
Go to your nearby butcher shop. They can assist you in selecting the finest cut of meat and familiarize you with less common alternatives. Additionally, the butcher can address any culinary queries you might have and provide personalized recommendations.
Here are some top-quality cuts of meat you might not have known to request.
Error 7: Slicing it prematurely
A perfectly grilled steak can be incredibly enticing, yet you should hold off from eating it immediately. Similar to many other dishes, steak requires some resting time for both itself and its internal fibers. As the meat cooks, its fibers contract, releasing juices which make the steak succulent. If you cut into it prematurely, all those carefully retained liquids will end up on your plate instead, resulting in a meal that’s dryer and less tasty.
What to do instead:
Wrap the meat in foil and allow it to sit after cooking; five minutes should suffice for thinner slices, whereas thicker portions may require up to 15 minutes. This pause lets the muscle fibers relax and absorb back into the juice. During this period, you can take a break as well, or utilize the downtime to quickly prepare one of
these simple side dishes
.
Mistake 8: Skimping on a meat thermometer
Regardless of your proficiency in grilling, you likely cannot precisely determine when a steak is done just by examining it visually. External signs can be misleading; the outside might appear perfect while the interior remains undercooked. Should you frequently check its progress by prodding it with a fork, you risk expelling some of the flavorful juices that contribute to making the meat delectable.
What to do instead:
Using a reliable thermometer, target internal temperatures of 135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 145°F for medium-well done steaks. (By the way, if these numbers seem lower than expected, it’s due to “carryover cooking.” After removing the steak from the grill, its internal temperature will increase by a few degrees during resting.)
Here’s our whole guide to cooking temps.
)
Error 9: Utilizing an oil with a minimal smoke point
Praised for its health advantages and the taste it imparts to dressings and stir-fries, extra-virgin olive oil isn’t ideal for high-temperature cooking. With a smoke point of just around 320 degrees Fahrenheit, it can develop off-flavors and release harmful substances once overheated. Since steak is often seared at temps as high as 500 degrees, employing regular olive oil could lead to a smokey atmosphere indoors and might affect the beef’s flavor negatively. Even though butter has a slightly lower smoke point at about 350 degrees, it wouldn’t be our first choice either under these conditions.
What to do instead
Generally, lighter oils possess higher smoke points. If you intend to apply oil onto your steak by brushing, consider using peanut, canola, or extra-light olive oil.
take a look at our guide covering various types of cooking oils
.
Mistake 10:
Not cleaning the grill
Cleaning a grill can be incredibly dull, yet allowing it to remain grimy ruins your chances of searing an excellent steak. Food residue on the grates leads to sticking and tearing of the meat. All your effort shouldn’t go down the drain just because you overlooked some maintenance—don’t let minor negligence spoil your perfectly cooked steak.
What to do instead:
Each time you utilize the grill, make sure to cleanse it. While the charcoal remains warm, scrub away debris from the grates using a wire brush. Then, apply a light layer of oil over it so that your grill stays well-maintained for future uses. With a spotless grill at hand, feel free to experiment: Feel encouraged to explore various recipes and ideas.
surprising dishes you can (and should) cook on the barbecue.
Got leftovers? Discover how to transform yesterday evening’s meal into one of these fantastic dishes.
leftover steak recipes
.
Up Next:
16 Kinds of Steak Everybody Should Be Familiar With
1 / 40
Tenderloin Steak Diane
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Tenderloin steaks, butter, mushrooms, steak sauce
Level:
Beginner
For this traditional skillet steak dish, simply cook the steaks in butter and finish them off with an irresistibly smooth mushroom cream sauce. It’s both sophisticated and easy to prepare simultaneously.
“Occasionally, I include extra mushrooms in this dish when my son is having dinner since he adores them, and they pair wonderfully with the steak,” shares recipe contributor Carolyn Turner from Reno, Nevada.
Porterhouse Steak
Total Time:
40 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Porterhouse steak, salt, pepper
Level:
Beginner
This basic but superlative porterhouse steak recipe will have you skipping the steakhouse dinner for home-cooked meals with this thick, tasty cut of meat. Serve it with classic sides: potatoes and a green vegetable.
If you have a hankering for beef, a two-pound porterhouse steak will surely hit the spot. This substantial piece of meat is simply spiced and cooked with ample amounts of butter to achieve a silky texture. The recipe comes from our contributing chef.
Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Steak au Poivre
Total Time:
35 minutes
Main Ingredients:
New York strip steak, cognac, thick whipped cream
Level:
Beginner
A traditional French meal, steak au poivre is among those dishes that are exceptionally delicious and sophisticated yet surprisingly simple to cook. It’s ideal for when you’re inviting guests for an upscale dinner without wanting to dedicate too much time in the kitchen.
Enjoy a sophisticated dining room atmosphere from your own kitchen with this delectable steak au poivre. The steak gets coated with peppercorns, forming a spicy exterior when cooked. Next, a rich sauce made from melted butter, chopped shallots, minced garlic, Cognac, and heavy cream envelops each piece of meat for an exquisite taste sensation. This recipe comes courtesy of Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Air-Fryer Steak Bites
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Premium sirloin steak, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt
Level:
Beginner
Picture a delightful steak dish that can be ready in mere moments without needing a grill or warming up your home! This air fryer steak bite recipe includes juicy morsels of steak soaked in a garlicky butter sauce.
The sirloin steak is flavored with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper before being flipped in an air fryer until it reaches perfection. Following this, it receives a generous coating of garlic butter, ensuring each mouthful remains succulent and full of flavor.
Taste of Home
Test Kitchen
Steak and Potatoes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Premium sirloin steaks, Yukon Gold potatoes, olive oil
Level:
Intermediate
Here’s a sophisticated yet straightforward recipe for steak and potatoes that pairs nicely with virtually any type of beef. Keep in mind that certain more robust cuts, such as flank steak, ought to avoid being cooked too long to prevent the meat from becoming chewy.
Nothing beats your classic meat and potatoes meal. Especially when the meat is a garlic-herb sirloin and the potatoes are soft with crispy edges. The leftovers could be the beginning of a great breakfast hash with an egg tossed on top. Recipe contributor Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Milanesa Steak
Total Time:
25 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Top-round steaks, breadcrumbs, flour
Level:
Beginner
Coated with flavored breadcrumbs and lightly fried until it turns a golden brown, Milanesa steak is perfect for satisfying your cravings during a cozy, simple dinner on a weekday night.
Steak Milanesa, also known as Beef Milanese, consists of a thin slice of steak that is coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until it becomes crisp. It pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon. This recipe was contributed by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Florentine Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Porterhouse steak, thyme, rosemary
Level:
Beginner
The Florentine steak is prepared using the large Porterhouse cut of beef and topped with herbed butter. This dish takes its name from the city of Florence, which serves as the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region.
The traditional Florentine steak, Bistecca alla Fiorentina, is typically prepared medium-rare, though you can cook this recipe according to your liking. A basic herb mixture of thyme, rosemary, and butter forms the marinade. This recipe was contributed by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Hanger Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Hangar steak, garlic, olive oil
Level:
Beginner
The hanger steak offers a stronger taste compared to sirloin or tenderloin. Tossed with Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and fresh thyme, this adaptable protein pairs well with all kinds of dishes.
If you’re longing for the robust taste of beef, hanger steak is your best choice. It boasts a deeper flavor profile compared to sirloin or tenderloin. Tossed with hints of Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and fragrant fresh thyme, this adaptable meat pairs well with various dishes. This recipe was shared by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Grilled Flat Iron Steak
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Flank steak, citrus juice, cayenne pepper
Level:
Beginner
A four-hour marinade followed by a brief stint on the grill makes this grilled flat iron steak recipe worth keeping.
Chili, garlic, and lime come together to create a tantalizing marinade with just the perfect level of spiciness. This budget-friendly cut of steak has the power to transform any evening into something extraordinary. The recipe was contributed by Katie Ferrier from Houston, Texas.
Filet Mignon
Total Time:
25 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients:
Beef tenderloin steaks, butter, garlic, rosemary
Level:
Beginner
With only a handful of basic components and the warmth of a well-seasoned cast-iron pan, this filet mignon dish promises to deliver one of the most delicious steaks you’ve ever had in your entire life.
“Just a few ingredients can elevate a filet mignon’s natural deliciousness. This straightforward recipe uses just a sprinkle of spices to infuse it with rich buttery, herbaceous, and garlicky notes. Serve it alongside traditional accompaniments like roasted veggies and creamy mashed potatoes for a complete dining experience.” Contributed by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Cast-Iron Steak
Total Time:
10 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients:
Kosher salted New York strip steak
Level:
Beginner
You surely don’t need to reserve steak only for special occasions. A simple way to prepare it is by searing it in a cast-iron pan, optionally using butter. Afterward, all you’ll want is a good side dish.
leafy salad
to complete the meal.
“Cooking steak at home for the first time might seem daunting. To help simplify things, I developed this straightforward recipe that’s perfect for whipping up any day of the week,” says James Schend from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin.
Chimichurri Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Flank steak, coriander, smoked chili peppers, cloves
Level:
Intermediate
Chimichurri is a zesty herbal condiment that pairs wonderfully with steak. After mastering the recipe for this sauce, you will desire to enjoy it throughout the entire summer season. Furthermore, if you have a fondness for steak, then this sauce is something you absolutely should try.
custom branding iron
for grilled meats.
“Steak receives an flavorful boost from chimichurri. This zesty, multipurpose herbal sauce is incredibly adaptable and enhances nearly any type of grilled meat, poultry, or fish.” – Contributed by Laureen Pittman from Riverside, California
Grilled Steak
Total Time:
15 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Garlic, lemon, strip steaks
Level:
Beginner
The foundation of the seasoning rub for these grilled steaks consists of Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. Given its acidic composition, this rub aids in tenderizing the beef. Serve the steak slices alongside your preferred side dish.
grilled corn recipes
.
Elevate your steak’s flavors to new peaks by brushing your preferred cut with a delightful garlic mixture that takes just a few minutes to prepare. This will add a tantalizing twist to the cuisine at your upcoming outdoor event.
Taste of Home
Test Kitchen
Steak Frites
Total Time:
35 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients:
Red-skinned potatoes, prime rib-eye steaks, cloves of garlic, sticks of butter
Level:
Intermediate
This steak frites recipe includes flawlessly prepared steak accompanied by handcrafted fries, offering an authentic French bistro experience sure to wow your guests.
Enjoy a delightful and rich meal in only a few minutes using this steak frites recipe. Russets are cut into thin slices for a crunchy accompaniment. The ribeye steak is gently spiced with butter, garlic, and thyme, then pan-fried until it’s beautifully medium-rare inside, resulting in mouthwatering, soft morsels. Recipe contributed by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Grilled Flank Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Sirloin steak, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice
Level:
Beginner
Once you acquire significant knowledge or skill in something,
steak marinade
In this recipe, you can transform an even the most stubborn piece of meat into a delightful meal. This four-ingredient marinade turns flank steak into a tender and full-flavored dish.
“Want to prepare flank steak? It’s simple! Start with a marinade and then either grill or broil it! The result is such a tender dish that you’ll likely add this method as one of your go-to options for serving beef.” Contributed by Heather Ahrens from Columbus, Ohio.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Prime ribeye steak, cloves of garlic, melted butter
Level:
Beginner
Garlic butter steak morsels sprinkled with parsley serve as an appetizing prelude to a classic steakhouse meal. Enjoy them as a laid-back beginning or as a lighter dinner option for four people.
“Enhancing a basic sirloin steak requires just a few minutes. This recipe employs two types of garlic to truly elevate these flavors.” Contributed by Julie Andrews from Rockford, Michigan.
Teriyaki Shish Kabobs
Total Time:
35 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Premium top sirloin steak, along with zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms
Level:
Intermediate
These teriyaki skewers will steal the show at your upcoming backyard BBQ. Just the smell will draw everyone in, but when they try the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors from the marinade, they’ll be completely won over. This dish scales up effortlessly, so you can make plenty even for a large gathering.
“During my teenage years, my dad was employed by an airline, and our family resided on the island of Guam located in the South Pacific. My mom’s acquaintance shared this zesty yet sweet recipe with her, which became one of our favorites. Today, I prepare it for my own household, who also love it immensely.” -Recipe contributed by Suzanne Pelegrin from Ocala, Florida
Pepper Steak
Total Time:
65 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Top-round steak, paprika, bell peppers, tomatoes
Level:
Beginner
Using an easy blend of sweet and savory sauce, thinly cut sirloin along with crisp bell peppers come together quickly for this one-pan dish. Complete your meal by serving it alongside steamed white, brown, or cauliflower rice.
“We reside at the eastern fringe of the Sand Hills in Nebraska, an area predominantly occupied by ranchers. This widely favored pepper steak recipe not only tastes great but also looks vibrant.” -Recipe contributed by Carolyn Butterfield from Atkinson, Nebraska
Garlic Blue Cheese Mustard Sauce Accompanied Grilled Ribeye Steaks
Total Time:
30 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients:
Rib-eye steaks, Dijon mustard, blue cheese
Level:
Intermediate
Cook these steaks until they develop a delightful caramelized exterior, ensuring the interior remains soft and juicy. You can simply reduce the size of the steaks along with the quantity of blue cheese topping by half to serve more modest portions.
“This straightforward steak receives a substantial flavor enhancement thanks to two ingredients I adore: mustard and blue cheese. Every year, my spouse and I prepare this dish to mark our anniversary.” -Recipe contributed by Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Zesty Steak Salad
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Steak, peppers, onion, tomato
Level:
Beginner
Prepare grilled marinated top sirloin steak for this vibrant salad, or opt to use any leftover steak from a previous dinner. Although the foundation consists of crisp romaine lettuce, feel free to include your favorite additions such as cucumbers, mushrooms, and cheese.
“Hearty stir-fried steak and vegetables lend a comforting touch to this vibrant salad. Feel free to include your preferred additions such as grated cheese, croutons, sliced mushrooms, or cucumbers.” – Contributed by Leah Carrell from Quitman, Texas
Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Sirloin steak, cherry tomatoes, coriander, squeezed lime juice
Level:
Beginner
Certainly, you can cook steak using an air fryer! This marinated flank steak requires under 10 minutes of prep time. As it rests, prepare slices of avocado, onions, and lime wedges for garnish.
“Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special.” Recipe contributor Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah
Steak Pinwheels
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Skirt steak, spinach, Parmesan, sour cream
Level:
Intermediate
Unfold and press flat a flank steak to create ample space for the flavorful spinach filling. After rolling it up, cut into portions and cook for approximately seven minutes.
“I impress my family and friends with this visually stunning meal that’s just as simple to prepare as it is tasty. Surprisingly, even people who aren’t fans of spinach enjoy this recipe!” contributed by Mary Ann Marino from West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Key West Flank Steak
Total Time:
35 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Flank steak, key lime juice, cilantro
Level:
Intermediate
Grilled flank steak shines when marinated in a zesty mix of lime and garlic, plus it grills up fast—just a couple of minutes on each side should do it. Letting it sit before slicing across the grain will yield the best texture. Want additional inspiration for cooking this budget-friendly meat? Explore our collection of other recipes.
flank steak recipes
.
“My spouse, Jason, handles the cooking in our household. He created this dish, drawing inspiration from his Colombian heritage and our trips to Key West. Occasionally, we also grill additional lime and onion slices separately. It’s best served with rice and fried plantains on the side.” —Recipe contributed by Gretchen Ospina, Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Steak Salad with Mushroom and Walnut Vinaigrette
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, fungi, balsamic reduction, walnut
Level:
Beginner
This steak salad makes an excellent choice for a romantic dinner since it looks sophisticated yet is simple enough to prepare anytime during the week. Accompany it with some rustic bread and your finest bottle of wine.
“When I plan a romantic dinner for my husband and me, I prepare this sophisticated but simple salad. I complement it with some crunchy French bread and a glass of wine.” -Recipe shared by Candace McMenamin from Lexington, South Carolina
Grilled Onion and Flank Steak Tacos
Total Time:
20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, lager, keylime juice, scallions
Level:
Beginner
Flank steak typically tends to be quite tough due to its abundance of connective tissues. This is precisely why utilizing a marinade such as one combining beer and lime can help soften it while enhancing its taste. Similar to other
grilled steak recipes
A brief cook over the flames is all that’s needed.
“My grandparents originated from Mexico, and I spent many hours observing my grandmother and mother as they cooked in the kitchen. This beer and lime juice-marinated steak pays tribute to their love for cooking.” Contributed by recipe creator Adan Franco from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Filet Mignon with Portobello Mushroom Gravy
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beef tenderloin steaks, mushrooms, red wine, beef stock
Level:
Beginner
These steaks smothered in a robust and flavorful portobello mushroom sauce make an ideal dinner for two. Round out your plate with tangy potatoes, a crisp green salad, and some delicious crusty bread.
These delicious steaks appear sophisticated yet are quick enough for routine nightly meals. We savor the mushroom-topped fillets alongside crunchy French bread, a mixed salad, and a zesty lemon dessert.Recipe contributed by Christel Stein from Tampa, Florida.
Citrus Steak Salad
Total Time:
25 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Grilled beef tenderloin, romaine lettuce, strawberries, oranges, pecans
Level:
Beginner
This salad boasts numerous delightful flavors courtesy of crisp greens, juicy mandarin oranges, ripe strawberries, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette. You just need to prepare the steak, and before long, your meal will be ready.
Your family will assume you dedicated several hours to create this stunning main dish salad with its homemade dressing, but it’s actually incredibly easy!
Taste of Home
Test Kitchen
Beef Tenderloin with Horseradish Cream Cheese
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beef tenderloin steaks, Parmesan cheese, horseradish, and cream cheese
Level:
Beginner
The pungent, spicy taste of horseradish complements a thick, succulent steak perfectly. Mix it with cream cheese, Parmesan, and parsley to create an exquisite topping for your steak, and pair it with a traditional baked potato.
“I enjoy the timeless pairing of beef and horseradish just as much as my spouse does. He frequently requests that I prepare this dish for our dinners, which delights me greatly. Serving it alongside baked potatoes complements the meal wonderfully.” Recipe contributed by Mary Lou Cook from Welches, Oregon.
Southwest Steak and Potatoes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, potatoes, brown sugar, cumin
Level:
Beginner
Prepare an entire grilled feast at your upcoming barbecue. Marinate the steak with a coating of vinegar and Worcestershire sauce followed by a seasoning of tangy spices, and let the potatoes develop a smoky flavor from the grill’s flames.
“Lively spices impart a Southwestern flair to meats and potatoes. You can modify the spiciness level by adding extra or reducing the amount of chili powder.” -Recipe shared by Kenny Fisher from Lancaster, Ohio
Maple and Blue Cheese Beef Fillet
Total Time:
30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Prime ribeye steak, cider vinegar, honeycomb molasses, roquefort cheese
Level:
Intermediate
A mixture of balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard imparts abundant flavor to the steak, complementing the robust blue cheese topping effectively. You can use any grilling-friendly cut for this recipe; options include sirloin, strip, or ribeye steaks.
“This delightful, gooey dish dissolves in your mouth. I adore this classic Canadian cuisine. It definitely exudes a special vibe; the sauce beautifully enhances the steak.” Contributed by Susan Jerrott from Bedford, Nova Scotia.
Smoky Espresso Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, coffee extract, chocolate, pumpkin pie seasoning
Level:
Beginner
Using espresso, cocoa, and pumpkin pie spice might make you think you’re preparing a treat, but it’s really an amazing seasoning that turns broiled or grilled flat iron steak into a burst of flavor.
“This flavorful steak seasoned with espresso, cocoa, and pumpkin pie spices is a favorite of my husband’s. While broiling works well all year round, we also enjoy preparing it on the grill as well.” Contributed by Deborah Biggs from Omaha, Nebraska.
Grilled Steaks Accompanied by Marinated Tomatoes
Total Time:
45 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Premium sirloin steaks, raspberry dressing, Montreal spice blend, tomatoes
Level:
Intermediate
Discussing the height of summertime, sometimes the ideal complement for a perfectly cooked steak is a serving of crisp garden tomatoes soaked in raspberry vinaigrette with an assortment of fresh herbs and seasonings. Alternatively, creamy potatoes or stir-fried green beans can also hit the spot!
“The taste of the tomatoes gets better when they soak overnight. They’re so delicious on their own! In our household, we prefer these steaks accompanied by cheesy potatoes or glazed green beans.” -Recipe shared by Anna Davis from Half Way, Missouri
Garlicky T-Bone Steaks with Bourgogne Mushrooms
Total Time:
25 minutes
Main Ingredients:
T-Bone steak, garlic, mushrooms
Level:
Beginner
Grilled Porterhouse or T-bone steaks are fantastic, particularly when seasoned with garlic and paired with wine-infused mushrooms. Elevate your dining experience this way.
creamy twice-baked potatoes
and a Caesar salad.
“T-bone steak is a fairly tender cut, so there’s no need to marinate. Punch up the flavor using loads of garlic.” Recipe contributor Kevin Black, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Spicy Rubbed Steak with Bread Salad
Total Time:
50 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, loaf of bread, ranch dressing, ground horseradish
Level:
Intermediate
The steak seasoned with chili and grilled, combined with fresh veggies turn this dish into a hearty one-dish meal akin to panzanella. Ensure you use thickly cut bread pieces for the cubes, allowing them to absorb all the delightful flavors perfectly.
“In my household, we really enjoy skirt steak. For a complete meal, I came up with a ranch-style bread salad featuring the perfect blend of flavors—creamy, tangy, sweet, and refreshing.” This recipe was contributed by Devon Delaney from Westport, Connecticut.
Chipotle-Honey Grilled T-Bones
Total Time:
30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
T-bone steak, cilantro, honey, chipotle peppers
Level:
Intermediate
For those who enjoy some warmth in their dishes, these T-bone steaks come with a fiery punch. Whether you cook them on the grill or sear them inside, let these be the highlight of your Tex-Mex themed meal.
“Should you enjoy spicing things up on the barbecue, this steak is perfect for you. Even my spouse prepares this dish using a Dutch oven, and the meat ends up sizzling away beautifully.” -Recipe shared by Donna Goutermont from Sequim, Washington
Bacon-Enwrapped Steaks with Smoked Mushrooms
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Tenderloin steak, bacon, mushrooms, Scotch
Level:
Intermediate
You’ve come across the bacon-enwrapped filet mignon at your local supermarket, yet preparing it at home is equally simple. This dish serves two perfectly (hooray for date nights!), though you have the option to double or triple the ingredients when hosting a dinner party.
“The inspiration for bacon-enwrapped filet mignon struck me when I spotted them at the local supermarket. My husband’s previous creation of a scotch and ginger ale sauce further fueled this culinary concept. Designed as an upscale dish for two people, this recipe can readily be scaled up for additional servings,” shares recipe contributor Mary Kay LaBrie from Clermont, Florida.
Merlot Filet Mignon
Total Time:
20 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Tenderloin steak, butter, merlot
Level:
Beginner
Keep in mind: when you’re cooking with wine, avoid using inexpensive varieties; opt for one that you’d enjoy drinking. This choice significantly enhances a creamy wine sauce such as this one.
“While this recipe is quite basic, you can confidently serve it to your visitors knowing it will impress them. The luxurious sauce brings an element of sophistication. Simply pair it with a side salad and some bread rolls.” – Contributed by Jauneen Hosking from Waterford, Wisconsin
Chocolate-Chipotle Sirloin Steak
Total Time:
30 minutes + chilling
Main Ingredients:
Premium sirloin steak, cocoa, chipotle peppers
Level:
Beginner
Cocoa powder won’t render your steak sweet. Unsweetened chocolate imparts depth and color to steak. It’s also an excellent counterpart to smoky chipotle peppers. Below are some additional unexpected combinations:
components that elevate your steak from merely good to truly exceptional
.
If you’re looking for a unique approach to grilling sirloin, try adding some smoky heat along with a deep chocolate undertone using this simple five-ingredient rub.
Taste of Home
Test Kitchen
Steak with Citrus Salsa
Total Time:
30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, soy sauce, oranges, coriander
Level:
Beginner
During summertime, this lime marinade adds zest to grilled steaks. In wintertime, broiled or pan-fried steaks receive a burst of sunlight via citrus salsa.
“Lime juice marinade adds a refreshing twist to these grilled steaks, while the crisp, zesty citrus salsa offers a delightful departure from traditional thick steak sauces. To add some brightness to cold-weather dishes, I opt for broiling the meat and presenting it like this.” —Recipe contributed by Kathleen Smith, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Ginger Steak Fried Rice
Total Time:
30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
Beefsteak, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger
Level:
Beginner
Transform your extra rice and steak into speedy fried rice. Adding broccoli slaw mix along with frozen peas turns this dish into a simple weeknight dinner option.
Ideal for wrapping up your week, this impressive dish can be whipped up effortlessly using leftover rice. A valuable suggestion for preparing the steak was shared with me not long ago: If you partially freeze it, slicing it thinly becomes quite simple. This recipe is courtesy of Simone Garza from Evansville, Indiana.
Steak Recipes Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do to ensure my steaks stay moist and tender?
Here are three straightforward suggestions to maintain the tenderness of your steak, similar to those served in high-end steakhouses, regardless of their level of doneness. Use a
meat thermometer
To avoid overcooking, let your steaks rest for five to fifteen minutes post-cooking under aluminum foil tented cover to allow them to absorb back some of the lost moisture. Always cut the steak perpendicular to the muscle fibers; this makes slicing easier compared to chewing tough cuts. What’s the optimal method for preparing a steak at home? Grilled steaks turn out particularly delicious when cooked right at home. Regardless of whether you decide
charcoal or gas grills
, the steak will produce a nicely seared outside and tender interior. Should your grill be stored away for the colder season, preparing steaks on
well-seasoned cast-iron skillets
Provides them with a restaurant-caliber crust, and you can utilize the melted butter in the skillet to baste your steaks during cooking. What sides would complement a steak dinner?
Brussels sprouts
onto the grill or pair your steak with crisp-tender
green beans
. Certain seasons and events demand substantial side dishes such as baked potatoes (give
Hasselback potatoes
for an attractive way to serve them) or
buttery homemade rolls
. Even things out with something light and seasonal.
green salad
And don’t overlook a glass of
red wine
!
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10 Errors Nearly Everybody Commits While Preparing Steak
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