Cooking the Perfect Steak on Char Broil Infrared: A Comprehensive Guide

Cooking a perfect steak can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to grilling. However, with the right techniques and equipment, you can achieve a deliciously cooked steak that will impress your family and friends. In this article, we will focus on how to cook steak on Char Broil Infrared grills, which are known for their ability to distribute heat evenly and cook food quickly.

Table of Contents

Understanding Char Broil Infrared Grills

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand how Char Broil Infrared grills work. These grills use infrared radiation to cook food, which is different from traditional grills that use convection heat. Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by the grill’s heating elements and absorbed by the food. This process allows for faster cooking times and a more even distribution of heat.

Benefits of Cooking on Char Broil Infrared Grills

Cooking on Char Broil Infrared grills offers several benefits, including:

Faster cooking times: Infrared radiation cooks food up to 30% faster than traditional grills.
Even heat distribution: The infrared radiation ensures that the heat is distributed evenly throughout the grill, eliminating hot spots.
Juicier food: The infrared radiation helps to lock in the juices of the food, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Easy to clean: Char Broil Infrared grills are designed with a smooth, porcelain-coated surface that makes cleaning easy.

Choosing the Right Steak

When it comes to cooking steak on Char Broil Infrared grills, the type of steak you choose is crucial. Here are a few factors to consider:

Cut: Look for steaks that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick, such as ribeye, strip loin, or filet mignon.
Quality: Choose steaks that are high in marbling, as this will result in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Age: Opt for steaks that have been aged for at least 14 days, as this will allow the natural enzymes to break down the proteins and result in a more tender steak.

Popular Steak Cuts for Char Broil Infrared Grills

Here are some popular steak cuts that are well-suited for Char Broil Infrared grills:

Ribeye: A rich, tender cut with a lot of marbling.
Strip Loin: A leaner cut with a firmer texture.
Filet Mignon: A tender cut with a buttery texture.

Preparing the Steak

Before cooking the steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:

Bring the steak to room temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
Season the steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
Oil the steak: Brush both sides of the steak with oil to prevent sticking.

Additional Tips for Preparing the Steak

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when preparing the steak:

Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer will help you ensure that the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Don’t press down on the steak: Resist the temptation to press down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out the juices and make the steak tough.

Cooking the Steak

Now that the steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the basic steps to follow:

Preheat the grill: Preheat the Char Broil Infrared grill to high heat (around 500°F).
Sear the steak: Place the steak on the grill and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
Finish cooking the steak: After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium-low (around 300°F) and continue cooking to your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Times for Char Broil Infrared Grills

Here are some general cooking times for Char Broil Infrared grills:

Internal Temperatures for Steak

Here are the internal temperatures for steak, as recommended by the USDA:

Rare: 120°F – 130°F
Medium Rare: 130°F – 135°F
Medium: 140°F – 145°F
Medium Well: 150°F – 155°F
Well Done: 160°F – 170°F

Resting the Steak

Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s essential to let it rest. Here are a few reasons why:

Reduces stress: Letting the steak rest reduces the stress on the meat, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Improves tenderness: Resting the steak allows the natural enzymes to break down the proteins, resulting in a more tender dish.
Enhances flavor: Letting the steak rest allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more complex and nuanced dish.

How to Rest the Steak

Here are a few tips for resting the steak:

Let it rest for 5-10 minutes: Depending on the thickness of the steak, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Use a wire rack: Place the steak on a wire rack to allow air to circulate around the meat.
Tent with foil: Tent the steak with foil to keep it warm and prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect steak on Char Broil Infrared grills requires a combination of technique, patience, and practice. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to cooking delicious steaks that will impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right steak, prepare it properly, cook it to the right temperature, and let it rest before slicing. With a little practice, you’ll be a steak-cooking pro in no time.

What is the ideal temperature for cooking steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill?

The ideal temperature for cooking steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill depends on the type of steak and the desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C), while for medium, it should be around 450°F to 500°F (230°C to 260°C). For well-done, the temperature should be around 500°F to 550°F (260°C to 290°C).

It’s essential to note that the temperature may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the grill’s heat distribution. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C), while for medium, it should be around 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C).

How do I preheat my Char Broil Infrared grill for steak cooking?

Preheating your Char Broil Infrared grill is crucial for cooking the perfect steak. To preheat, turn the grill to high heat and let it heat up for at least 10 to 15 minutes. You can also use the grill’s preheat feature, which will automatically heat the grill to the desired temperature. Make sure to clean the grates with a brush before preheating to ensure even heat distribution.

Once the grill is preheated, use a thermometer to check the temperature. If the temperature is not at the desired level, adjust the heat accordingly. It’s also essential to oil the grates before cooking to prevent the steak from sticking. Use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grates, and then wipe off any excess oil with a clean paper towel.

What type of steak is best suited for cooking on a Char Broil Infrared grill?

The type of steak best suited for cooking on a Char Broil Infrared grill depends on personal preference. However, thicker steaks such as ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon work well on this type of grill. These steaks have a good balance of marbling, which helps to keep them juicy and flavorful.

Thicker steaks also benefit from the infrared heat, which helps to sear the outside quickly while cooking the inside to the desired level of doneness. Avoid using thin steaks such as sirloin or flank steak, as they may cook too quickly and become overcooked.

How do I achieve a perfect sear on my steak when cooking on a Char Broil Infrared grill?

Achieving a perfect sear on your steak when cooking on a Char Broil Infrared grill requires a combination of high heat and proper technique. To start, make sure the grill is preheated to the desired temperature. Then, place the steak on the grill and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.

To enhance the sear, use a small amount of oil on the grates and make sure the steak is dry before cooking. You can also use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan on the grill to achieve a crispy crust on the steak. Avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can push out the juices and prevent even cooking.

How long does it take to cook a steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill?

The cooking time for a steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill depends on the type and thickness of the steak, as well as the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, cook a 1-inch thick steak for 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium, and 7 to 9 minutes per side for well-done.

It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches a safe internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C), while for medium, it should be around 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C). Avoid overcooking the steak, as this can make it tough and dry.

Can I cook steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill without a thermometer?

While it’s possible to cook steak on a Char Broil Infrared grill without a thermometer, it’s not recommended. A thermometer ensures that the steak reaches a safe internal temperature, which is crucial for food safety. Without a thermometer, it’s difficult to determine the internal temperature of the steak, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked meat.

However, if you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the finger test to check the doneness of the steak. Press the steak gently with your finger; if it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels firm and springy, it’s medium. If it feels hard and doesn’t yield to pressure, it’s well-done.

How do I store leftover steak cooked on a Char Broil Infrared grill?

To store leftover steak cooked on a Char Broil Infrared grill, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a covered container. Refrigerate the steak for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

When reheating the steak, use low heat to prevent overcooking. You can reheat the steak in the oven, on the grill, or in a pan on the stovetop. Avoid reheating the steak in the microwave, as this can make it tough and dry.