The Best Way To Grill Steak – The Secret To Juicy, Tender Steaks Every Time

There is nothing quite like grilling steak on Father’s Day, and learning the best way to grill steak can turn an ordinary meal into a restaurant-quality experience right in your own backyard. With a few simple techniques, you can create steaks that are perfectly seared on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside.

Whether you are cooking ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon, or sirloin, grilling steak isn’t complicated. However, knowing when to season, how long to cook, and when to let the meat rest makes all the difference between an average steak and one that everyone talks about long after dinner is over.

And because Father’s Day is one of the most popular grilling holidays of the year, there is no better way to celebrate than by serving a perfectly cooked steak fresh off the grill. Pair it with baked potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad, and dinner is complete.

However, the key to success starts before the steak ever touches the grill. Choosing quality meat, allowing it to come to room temperature, and using high heat all help create incredible flavor and texture.

The Best Cuts of Steak To Grill

The best way to grill steak begins with selecting the right cut. Ribeye steaks are known for their rich marbling and flavor, while New York strip steaks offer a firmer texture with excellent beef flavor. Filet mignon is extremely tender, and sirloin provides a budget-friendly option that still grills beautifully.

However, for the best results, select steaks that are at least 1 to 1½ inches thick. Thicker steaks cook more evenly and develop a better crust without overcooking the interior.

Also look for steaks with good marbling throughout the meat. Those thin white streaks of fat melt as the steak cooks, adding amazing flavor and tenderness.

Before You Grill

About 30 to 45 minutes before grilling, remove the steaks from the refrigerator. Allowing them to come closer to room temperature promotes even cooking.

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture helps create the deep brown crust everyone loves.

Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. A simple seasoning blend often produces the best flavor because it allows the beef to shine.

Finally, just before grilling, brush the steaks lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

The Best Way To Grill Steak Recipe

*Specific measurements and complete recipe instructions are located in a printable recipe card at the bottom of this article. However, be sure to continue to read the tips and tricks to making this recipe below.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 ribeye or New York strip steaks, 1 to 1½ inches thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to high heat, approximately 450 to 500°F.

2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

3. Season both sides of the steaks with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

4. Place the steaks directly over high heat and grill for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them.

5. Flip the steaks and grill another 3 to 5 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time as needed for your desired doneness.

6. During the final minute of cooking, top each steak with butter, garlic, and rosemary or thyme if using.

7. Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing or serving.

Tips For Grilling Steak To Perfection

High heat is the secret to creating the perfect steak. A hot grill quickly develops a flavorful crust through caramelization while locking in juices.

Place the steaks directly over the hottest part of the grill and avoid moving them during the first several minutes. Leaving the steak undisturbed allows grill marks and a beautiful crust to form.

After flipping the steak once, continue cooking until the desired internal temperature is reached. Using an instant-read thermometer removes the guesswork.

For rare steak, remove it from the grill at 120°F. Medium-rare is best at 130 to 135°F. Medium steak should be removed at 140 to 145°F.

Remember that the temperature will continue rising several degrees while resting.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when grilling steak is cutting into it immediately after cooking.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If sliced too early, those juices run out onto the plate instead of staying inside the steak.

Allow steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes, although thicker steaks benefit from 10 minutes of resting time.

The result is a juicier and more flavorful steak every single time.

What To Serve With Steak

Steak pairs wonderfully with countless side dishes. Grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, and corn on the cob are always popular choices.

If you are looking for another easy grilling recipe to serve alongside steak, try our Grilled Huli Huli Chicken recipe for a backyard barbecue featuring something for everyone.

You can also finish your meal with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete Father’s Day dinner.

The best way to grill steak is surprisingly simple. Start with quality meat, season it well, cook it over high heat, and allow it to rest before serving.

Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect results every time and takes the stress out of grilling. Once you master these techniques, you’ll never need a steakhouse reservation again.

Whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day or simply enjoying a summer evening outdoors, perfectly grilled steak is always a meal worth sharing.

Enjoy! Mary

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