A Cast Iron Skillet Steak Recipe involves cooking steaks in a hot cast iron skillet for a perfect sear and juicy interior. Seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, this method ensures a flavorful steak every time. Serve the steak with sides such as potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
To store any leftovers, let the steak cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to preserve tenderness.
This recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress with a delicious, restaurant-quality steak made at home.
Cast Iron Skillet Steak Recipe
Equipment
- 10" Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 Ribeye or New York Strip steaks about 1-1 ½ inches thick
- 1 tbsp Avocado oil
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 2 Sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2-4 Garlic cloves smashed
Instructions
- Let the steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the steaks in the skillet and cook for 4 minutes without touching. Use tongs to flip the steaks and cook for another 4 minutes on the other side.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary or thyme sprigs to the skillet. Once the butter melts, tilt the skillet and spoon the buttery mixture over the steaks repeatedly. This helps them cook evenly and enhances the flavor.
- Keep cooking until the steaks reach your desired level of doneness. Remember, the temperature will rise about 5 degrees after you remove them from the heat. Let the steaks rest on a plate or cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. Spoon over any remaining melted butter, garlic, and herbs from the skillet.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Allow the steak to come to room temperature before seasoning and cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Hot Skillet: Ensure the oil in the skillet is hot before adding the steaks. This gives them a nice sear.
- Resting Time: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 635 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 45g |
| Fat | 48g |
| Cholesterol | 169mg |
| Sodium | 701mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Iron | 4mg |
Why Should I Let the Steak Come to Room Temperature Before Cooking?
It’s important to let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the steak cook more evenly throughout. If the steak is cold when it hits the hot skillet, it can cook unevenly, resulting in a less juicy and tender steak.
Why is It Crucial to Heat the Skillet Before Adding the Steaks?
Heating the skillet properly before adding the steaks ensures a good sear on the outside of the meat. When the skillet is hot, it quickly sears the surface of the steak, locking in the juices and flavor. This step also helps prevent the steak from sticking to the pan.
Why Should I Let the Steaks Rest After Cooking?
After cooking, it’s essential to let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices inside the steak to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. If you cut into the steak immediately after cooking, the juices may escape, leaving you with a drier steak. Resting helps ensure a tender and flavorful steak.