I. Introduction

Steak is a classic dish loved by many, but cooking it perfectly can be daunting, especially using a pan. In this article, we will share our expert tips on cooking a steak in a pan that is perfectly cooked to your liking. Whether you want it rare, medium, or well-done, we’ve got you covered. Our step-by-step guide is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned pros alike.

II. Choosing the right cut of steak

The right cut of steak can make all the difference in the taste and texture of your dish. The best cuts of steak for pan cooking include sirloin, ribeye, and filet mignon. Sirloin is an excellent choice because it has good marbling and is relatively lean. Ribeye has more marbling, making it more flavorful and tender than sirloin. Filet mignon is the most tender of all the cuts, but it has less flavor than the other two.

III. Preparing the steak

Before cooking the steak, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Start by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite blend of seasonings. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to prevent any moisture from impacting the sear during the cooking process.

IV. Cooking the steak

Cooking the steak perfectly is all about the right temperature and timing. First, heat a pan over high heat and add oil, such as vegetable oil, olive oil, or clarified butter. Once the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the steak to the pan. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium, and 5-6 minutes per side for well-done. Make sure not to move the steak around too much and only flip it once. For thicker cuts, you can sear it first on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side and then lower the heat to medium and continue cooking for another 7-10 minutes until it reaches your desired degree of doneness.

V. Taking care of the steak while it cooks

While cooking the steak, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the steak to steam instead of sear. Overcrowding the pan can also reduce the temperature, making it more difficult to achieve a good sear. Avoid disturbing the steak too much and flip it only once to ensure a nice crust forms. Use tongs instead of a fork to avoid piercing the steak, which will release the juices and make it dry.

VI. Resting the steak

Resting the steak after cooking is crucial to allow the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. Place the cooked steak on a cutting board or plate and cover it with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. This will make the steak more tender and flavorful, and you will have a juicy steak to enjoy. During the resting period, the temperature inside will continue to rise, so if you like a medium-rare steak, cook it to medium and then allow it to rest.

VII. Serving and cutting the steak

When slicing the steak, cut against the grain to make it more tender. For a thin cut of steak, slice it just before serving, while for a thicker cut, pre-slicing it can make a great presentation. Arrange the steak slices on a platter or individual plates and serve with your favorite side dishes and sauces.

VIII. Accompaniments and sides

To complement your steak dish, there are a variety of sides and wines that work well. Grilled or roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes, and baked sweet potatoes are delicious options to pair with steak. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Merlot are excellent wine choices that enhance the steak’s flavor. For a quick and easy side dish, try roasted garlic asparagus, oven-baked macaroni and cheese, or Hasselback potatoes.

IX. Conclusion

Cooking steak in a pan can be intimidating, but with the right techniques and the right cut of meat, you can create a delicious and perfectly cooked steak every time. Choose the best cut of steak, season it well, cook it to your liking, and let it rest before serving. Don’t forget to pair your steak with the perfect side dishes and wine for the ultimate dining experience. With these tips and techniques, you can create a steak dish that will impress your friends and family.