How to Grill the Perfect Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  The weather is getting hot, hot, hot and that means it's grilling season.  Grilling the perfect steak is an art that every food lover should master.  

Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to achieve a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked steak every time.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's get started!

WHY GRILLING THE PERFECT STEAK MATTERS:

A perfectly grilled steak is a culinary delight.  The combination of a seared crust and a tender juicy interior makes for an unforgettable eating experience.  But achieving this balance can be challenging without the right techniques and tips.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT STEAK:

Before you even fire up the grill, selecting the right cut of steak is crucial.  Here are some popular choices:

• Ribeye:  Known for its marbling and rich flavor.  
• New York Strip:  Offers a good balance of tenderness and flavor.
• Filet Mignon:  The most tender cut, though less flavorful.
• T-Bone/Porterhouse:  Combines the tenderness of filet mignon with the rich flavor of a strip steak.  

Look for steaks with good marbling, as the fat will render down and add flavor. during grilling.  

WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR THE PERFECT STEAK:

• 1 Steak of Your Choice
• 1/4 tsp each Salt, Pepper, Seasoning Salt, Garlic Powder, and Onion Powder
• 1 Pat of Butter

PREPARING THE STEAK:

1. Bring to Room Temperature:  Take your steak out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling.  This ensures even cooking.
2. Season Generously:  Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

SETTING UP THE GRILL:

1. Preheat the Grill:  Preheat your grill to high heat.  For charcoal grills, make sure the coals are white-hot.  For gas grills, heat to about 450°F to about 500°F.
2. Oil the Grates:  Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to grease the grill grates.  This helps prevent sticking.

GRILLING THE STEAK:

1. Criss-Cross Pattern:  To get that fun criss-cross pattern we all love,  pace the steak on the grill, at an angle, and cook for 1-1.5 minutes.  Angle the steak  in the other direction and grill for 1-1.5 minutes longer.  (This time is for a medium steak.  See chart below for timing of other doneness) 
2. Flip the Steak:  After 2-3 minutes, flip the steak and repeat the process above. For medium you are looking for an internal temperature of 140°-145°F.

GRILLING TEMPERATURES AND TIMES:

Rare  120°F-125°F:  1-2 minutes on each side.

Medium Rare 130°F-135°F:  2-3 minutes on each side.

Medium 140°F-145°F:  4 minutes on each side.

Medium Well 150°F-155°F:  4-6 minutes on each side.

Well Done 160°F and above:  6-8 minutes on each side. 

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy.

RESTING AND SERVING:  

1. Rest the Steak:  Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill.  Place a pad of butter on it, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
2. Slice and Serve:  Cut the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.  Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

TIPS FOR THE BEST GRILLED STEAK:

• Use a Meat Thermometer:  This ensures precise cooking and prevents overcooking.
• Let It Rest:  Never skip the resting step; tis crucial for juicy steak.  
• Experiment with Seasonings:  Don't be afraid to try different rubs and marinades.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS):

Can I use a marinade?

Absolutely!  Marinade can add additional flavor.  Just be sure to pat the steak dry before grilling to ensure a good sear.

How do I know when the grill is hot enough?

You should be able to hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grate for only 2-3 seconds before it feels too hot. 

What if I don't have a meat thermometer?  

You can use the touch test:  Rare feels soft, medium rare feels slightly firmer, and well done feels firm.  

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to grilling the perfect steak!

Grilling the perfect steak doesn't have to be a daunting task.  With the right preparation, techniques, and a bit of practice, you can impress your family and friends with mouth watering steaks that rival those from the best steakhouses.  Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the perfect steak!  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~