Cast Iron Steak

Whether you're working with a rib-eye, New York strip, or any other cut of your choice, there's truly no better way to cook a steak a home than with a cast-iron pan. The sizzling hot pan helps you get a beautiful golden-brown sear, while the technique of finishing the steaks in the oven helps prevent overcooking.

A cast-iron pan may not give you the same picture-perfect marks or smoky flavor as the grill, but many prefer pan-seared steaks because they have better, more uniform browning—and more browning equals more flavor. Once you learn a few tricks, you can create a restaurant-quality steak dinner in just a few minutes at home.

Why Cast Iron Is the Best Pan for Steak

A cast iron pan is an invaluable tool in any kitchen, and it makes cooking steak quick and simple. Cast iron heats evenly, can withstand high temperatures, and retains heat well, all of which help create a perfect, golden sear on your steak.

As a bonus, the fat rendered from the steak will help keep your skillet beautifully seasoned!

Ways to Season Your Steak

In terms of seasonings, salt and pepper are really all you need because they enhance the meat's natural flavors. Other seasonings, such as spices or dried herbs, tend to burn when the steak is seared, so we recommend keeping it simple. You can always get creative by topping the cooked steak with softened herb butter.

Helpful Tips for Cooking Steak on Cast Iron

Before you begin, set the steaks out for at least 20 minutes so they reach room temperature. Get the pan sizzling hot, and preheat the oven. You'll finish steak in the oven, reaching your ideal doneness without burning the outside of the steak.

Even if your cast iron pan is perfectly seasoned, you do want to use some oil. The reason for this is that while the surface of the pan may appear very smooth, it is full of pockmarks and divots on the microscopic level. The oil fills in those divots and helps transfer heat evenly from the pan to the food. Opt for a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point to avoid a burnt taste); extra-virgin olive oil and butter cannot withstand the high temperatures required.

During cooking, flipping the steaks more than once is not necessary, but when you're first learning how to cook a steak, you can flip it every minute or so to ensure you're getting a good, even sear.

How Long to Cook Steak

The cooking time will depend on how well-done you like your steak, and a thicker steak will require a longer cooking time. For a 1-inch rib-eye steak cooked over medium-high heat, this will be about 3 to 5 minutes per side. But it's better to judge doneness by temperature, not time, for the best results.

The internal temperature of the steak should be:

• 110 F for rare
• 120 F for medium-rare
• 130 F for medium
• 140 F for medium-well
• 150 F for well-done

Keep in mind that a steak's internal temperature will rise by about five degrees after cooking as it rests.

What to Serve With Cast Iron Steak

The side dish possibilities are truly endless with steak. Serve your seared chops with classic steakhouse sides like creamed spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or truffled French fries, or go for more creative options such as a Brussels sprouts salad, cauliflower mac and cheese, or pesto gnocchi.