Steak Doneness Guide – How to Cook a Steak
Enhance your steak cooking skills with our guide on steak cooking times and techniques. Learn how long to cook a steak perfectly using simple steps. Our step-by-step instructions ensure you get the most out of your steak, achieving your desired level of doneness every time.
How Long to Cook a Steak
Equipment Needed:
- A heavy-based (preferably cast iron) frying pan
- Digital probe thermometer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak Cooking Techniques:
- Preheat the Pan: Heat your heavy-based frying pan over high heat until very hot.
- Cook the Steak: As a rough guide, a 2cm/¾in thick steak will take:
- 3 minutes in total for rare
- 4–5 minutes in total for medium
- 7–8 minutes in total for well done
- Check the Temperature: A digital probe thermometer is a great tool for ensuring all the meat you cook is just right, especially for a big piece of steak for sharing or a thick steak. Internal temperatures are a more reliable test for doneness:
- The middle of the steak should be around 50C for rare
- 55C for medium-rare
- 60C for medium
- 70C for well done
Cooking steak to perfection can vary based on the thickness of the meat and personal taste. Therefore, knowing how long to cook a steak properly is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. With these steak cooking techniques, you can easily cook steak to your preferred level of doneness.
Helpful Hint:
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful and tender result.
Alternative Uses for Steak:
- Steak Salad: Slice cooked steak thinly and serve it over a fresh salad for a delicious meal.
- Steak Sandwich: Use cooked steak slices in a sandwich with your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Steak Tacos: Add cooked steak to soft tacos with fresh salsa and guacamole for a tasty dish.
