APPRECIATING THE SIMPLICITY OF PAN-SEARING

 

 

Pan-seared steak is a favorite for a great reason! If you love cooking steak, whether you do it all the time or just once in a while, mastering this technique is a game-changer. Once you get the hang of pan-searing, you'll be ready to try out different cooking methods and whip up all sorts of tasty steak dishes. It's a fun skill to learn, and you’ll impress your friends and family in no time!

 

 

 

Why You’ll Love Pan Searing😋

 

1. Quick and Easy: Savor a delicious meal that brings convenience to your busy life!

2. Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with juicy goodness.

3. Experience Flavor Like Never Before: Prepare for an unforgettable culinary journey with every mouthful!

4. Simple Ingredients, Amazing Taste: With minimal ingredients, you'll create something truly satisfying without the fuss.

5. A Guaranteed Hit: Impress your friends and family with a dish that everyone will rave about!

 

 

 

Steps for Perfect Pan-Seared Steak📌

 

1. Prepare the Steak: Generously season your steak with salt and let it rest at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes. This simple step really helps enhance the flavor and ensures a fantastic sear.

 

Why It Works: Pre-salting draws out moisture and allows the flavors to meld, creating a beautifully caramelized crust you’ll love.

 

2. Heat the Pan: Choose a heavy skillet, like cast iron, and heat it over medium-high to high heat until it’s sizzling hot.

 

Why Use a Heavy Pan?: A heavy pan holds the heat well, providing the ideal sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy—a secret of the pros.

 

3. Add Oil or Fat: Coat the bottom of the pan with enough oil or fat to create a non-stick surface. This will help your steak cook just right.

 

4. Add the Steak: Gently place your steak in the hot pan and enjoy the delightful sizzle!

 

Temperature Guide for Steak Doneness:

 

- Medium Rare (soft, dark pink inside): Remove from heat at 125°F.

- Medium (soft, with some pink): Remove from heat at 135°F for a final temperature of 140°F.

- Medium Well (slightly pink center): Remove from heat at 145°F for a final temperature of 150°F.

- Well Done (very firm, little to no pink): Remove from heat at 155°F for a final temperature of 160°F.

 

5. Sear the Steak: Cook the steak for a couple of minutes on each side, until you achieve a rich, deep brown crust that easily releases from the pan.

 

 

 

*For thicker cuts of steak (1.5 inches or more), it's best to use an instant-read thermometer.

 

This tool accurately measures the internal temperature of your steak. To use it, insert the probe into the thickest part of the steak, making sure it reaches the center. Once you have the temperature, compare it to the chart above to decide if your steak is ready to be removed from the heat or if it has reached its desired final temperature.

 

 

 

Pro Tips for the Best Pan-Seared Steak⏱️

 

If you’ve followed the instructions above but want a few extra tips for cooking the best pan-seared steak, here are some you might find helpful:

 

  • Don’t crowd your pan: Give each steak some space to cook evenly. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking or searing. If you're making a lot, work in batches or use two pans.

  • Pat Your Steaks Dry: Make sure your steak is dry before searing it. After taking it out of the fridge, give it a good pat down, then season with salt.

  • Try Reverse-Searing for Thick Steaks: If you have a thick steak (1.5  inches or more), cook it in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F) until it reaches about 110°F. Then, sear it in your skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. This helps the inside cook perfectly before finishing up with that nice sear.

 

 

 

How to Buy and Store Steak

 

Getting a great cut of steak is just as important as cooking it! Aim for steaks with good marbling. If you can, go for USDA Choice or USDA Prime cuts for the best quality.

 

When you bring your steak home, store it in the freezer. When you are ready to cook, you can place it in the refrigerator. Place it on the bottom shelf on a plate to catch any drips. Keep the wrapping on until you're ready to go to cook it.

 

 

 

Got Leftover Steaks?

 

It’s always great to have some pan-seared steak left over! You can enjoy it in various meal prep ideas, and it’s perfectly fine to eat within 3-4 days. Here are some fun meal prep concepts:

 

- Steak salad

- Steak sandwiches

- Garlic steak bites with veggies

- Steak pasta

- Steak and veggie stir fry 

- Steak burrito bowl

- Steak with roasted vegetables

 

 

 

What to Serve with Steaks

 

Pan-seared steaks pair wonderfully with all sorts of side dishes that complement their rich, savory flavors. Think about making creamy spinach to go alongside.

 

For more side dish inspiration, check out our numerous steak side dishes.