Cooking a steak in a cast iron skillet is an art that requires some skill and practice, but with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak that rivals those found in high-end restaurants. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook a delicious steak in a cast iron skillet, from preparing the skillet to serving the steak.
Preparing the Cast Iron Skillet
Before you start cooking your steak, it’s essential to prepare your cast iron skillet. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is crucial for cooking a great steak, as it prevents the steak from sticking to the pan and adds flavor to the meat.
Seasoning the Skillet
If you have a new cast iron skillet, you’ll need to season it before using it. Seasoning a cast iron skillet involves applying a thin layer of oil to the surface of the pan and heating it to polymerize the oil, creating a non-stick surface. To season a cast iron skillet, follow these steps:
- Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface of the skillet, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Place the skillet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for an hour.
- Let the skillet cool before wiping off any excess oil with a paper towel.
Heating the Skillet
Once your cast iron skillet is seasoned, it’s time to heat it up. Preheating the skillet is crucial for cooking a great steak, as it ensures that the steak cooks evenly and gets a nice crust on the outside. To preheat the skillet, follow these steps:
- Place the skillet over high heat on your stovetop.
- Let the skillet heat up for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches 500°F (260°C).
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the skillet.
Choosing the Right Steak
Choosing the right steak is crucial for cooking a great steak in a cast iron skillet. Look for a steak that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick, as this will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and gets a nice crust on the outside. Some popular steak options for cooking in a cast iron skillet include:
- Ribeye: A rich, tender cut of beef with a lot of marbling, which makes it perfect for cooking in a cast iron skillet.
- Sirloin: A leaner cut of beef that is perfect for those looking for a slightly healthier option.
- Filet Mignon: A tender cut of beef that is perfect for those looking for a more indulgent option.
Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature
Before cooking the steak, it’s essential to bring it to room temperature. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly and gets a nice crust on the outside. To bring the steak to room temperature, follow these steps:
- Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
- Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Cooking the Steak
Now that your cast iron skillet is preheated and your steak is at room temperature, it’s time to cook the steak. Cooking a steak in a cast iron skillet involves searing the steak on both sides and then finishing it in the oven.
Searing the Steak
To sear the steak, follow these steps:
- Add a small amount of oil to the preheated skillet and let it heat up for 1-2 minutes.
- Place the steak in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until it gets a nice crust.
- Flip the steak over and sear it for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it gets a nice crust on the second side.
Getting a Nice Crust
Getting a nice crust on the steak is crucial for cooking a great steak in a cast iron skillet. To get a nice crust, make sure to:
- Use a hot skillet: A hot skillet is essential for getting a nice crust on the steak.
- Don’t move the steak: Let the steak cook for 2-3 minutes on each side without moving it, as this will ensure that it gets a nice crust.
- Use a small amount of oil: Using too much oil can prevent the steak from getting a nice crust.
Finishing the Steak in the Oven
Once you’ve seared the steak on both sides, it’s time to finish it in the oven. To finish the steak in the oven, follow these steps:
- Place the skillet in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the steak for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Checking the Internal Temperature
Checking the internal temperature of the steak is crucial for cooking a great steak in a cast iron skillet. The internal temperature of the steak will determine the level of doneness, with higher temperatures indicating a more well-done steak. Here are the internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-done: 160-170°F (71-77°C)
Letting the Steak Rest
Once you’ve cooked the steak to your desired level of doneness, it’s time to let it rest. Letting the steak rest is crucial for cooking a great steak in a cast iron skillet, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness. To let the steak rest, follow these steps:
- Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a plate.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, or until it has reached room temperature.
Serving the Steak
Now that you’ve cooked and rested the steak, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few ways to serve a steak cooked in a cast iron skillet:
- Serve the steak on its own, with a side of your favorite vegetables or salad.
- Serve the steak with a sauce, such as a peppercorn or Béarnaise sauce.
- Serve the steak with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
| Steak Cut | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeye | 5-7 minutes per side | 130-135°F (54-57°C) |
| Sirloin | 4-6 minutes per side | 140-145°F (60-63°C) |
| Filet Mignon | 3-5 minutes per side | 120-130°F (49-54°C) |
By following these steps and tips, you can cook a delicious steak in a cast iron skillet that rivals those found in high-end restaurants. Remember to always use a hot skillet, don’t move the steak, and let it rest before serving. Happy cooking!
What are the benefits of cooking steak in a cast iron skillet?
Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet offers several benefits. For one, cast iron skillets retain heat exceptionally well, allowing for a nice crust to form on the steak. This crust, also known as the Maillard reaction, is a result of the amino acids and sugars in the steak reacting to the high heat, resulting in a rich, caramelized flavor.
Additionally, cast iron skillets can achieve extremely high temperatures, which is ideal for searing steak. This high heat helps to lock in the juices of the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Furthermore, cast iron skillets are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking techniques, from stovetop to oven cooking.
What type of steak is best suited for cooking in a cast iron skillet?
When it comes to cooking steak in a cast iron skillet, it’s best to choose a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick. This thickness allows for a nice crust to form on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon are all excellent choices for cooking in a cast iron skillet.
It’s also important to choose a steak with a good balance of marbling, which is the amount of fat that is dispersed throughout the meat. A steak with a good balance of marbling will be more tender and flavorful than a leaner cut of meat. Avoid choosing steaks that are too lean, as they may become tough and dry when cooked.
How do I season a cast iron skillet for cooking steak?
To season a cast iron skillet for cooking steak, start by applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface of the skillet, including the handle and underside. Then, place the skillet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for an hour to allow the oil to penetrate the metal.
After the hour is up, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool completely. Once the skillet has cooled, use a paper towel to wipe off any excess oil. The skillet is now ready to use for cooking steak. It’s also important to note that you should avoid using soap or harsh chemicals to clean a cast iron skillet, as this can strip away the seasoning.
What is the ideal temperature for cooking steak in a cast iron skillet?
The ideal temperature for cooking steak in a cast iron skillet depends on the level of doneness desired. For a rare steak, the skillet should be heated to around 400°F (200°C), while a medium-rare steak requires a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). For a medium or well-done steak, the skillet should be heated to around 300°F (150°C).
It’s also important to note that the temperature of the skillet will drop slightly when the steak is added, so it’s best to preheat the skillet to a temperature that is slightly higher than the desired cooking temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure the skillet has reached the correct temperature before adding the steak.
How do I prevent the steak from sticking to the cast iron skillet?
To prevent the steak from sticking to the cast iron skillet, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak. You can test the heat of the skillet by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the skillet is ready.
Additionally, make sure to pat the steak dry with a paper towel before adding it to the skillet. This will help to remove excess moisture from the surface of the steak, which can cause it to stick to the skillet. You can also add a small amount of oil to the skillet before adding the steak, which will help to prevent sticking.
How long do I cook the steak in a cast iron skillet?
The cooking time for steak in a cast iron skillet will depend on the thickness of the steak and the level of doneness desired. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak will take around 3-5 minutes per side for a rare steak, while a 1.5-inch thick steak will take around 5-7 minutes per side.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 130°F (54°C) for a rare steak, 140°F (60°C) for a medium-rare steak, and 150°F (65°C) for a medium steak. For a well-done steak, the internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C).
How do I store a cast iron skillet after cooking steak?
After cooking steak in a cast iron skillet, make sure to clean the skillet thoroughly with hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid using soap or harsh chemicals, as these can strip away the seasoning.
Once the skillet is clean, dry it thoroughly with a towel and apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface. This will help to maintain the seasoning and prevent rust from forming. Store the skillet in a dry place, such as a hook or hanging rack. Do not store the skillet in a humid environment or cover it with a lid, as this can encourage rust to form.