Cast Iron Cowboy: The Ultimate Pan-Seared Steak

Learn the secret to cooking steak in cast iron like a pro! This Cowboy-style method guarantees a perfect sear and juicy interior, every time. Get ready to sizzle!

Alright, let's talk steak! ever wondered how restaurants get that perfect crust? it's totally doable at home. today, we're diving into cooking steak in cast iron .

Trust me, it's easier than you think!

Cast Iron Cowboy: Your Ticket to Steak Nirvana

Ready for a steak that'll make you say "Yeehaw!"? This pan cooked steak method gives you that awesome restaurant sear. We're talking juicy insides and a crust that snaps.

This recipe is all about bringing out the beefy goodness. think simple seasonings and high heat to create magic. originally, cooking steaks in a cast iron skillet was a technique used in the old west since grills were very rare.

With minimal fuss, and about 50 minutes of your time, you too can master this culinary feat! serving 1-2 people, it's perfect for date night or a solo treat.

Why Cast Iron Skillet Steak In Oven is Your New Best Friend

Honestly, steak on stovetop gets a bad rap. but a cast iron skillet changes everything! high heat and even cooking mean the best sear possible.

Cooking steak in a cast iron skillet steak in oven style gives you more control of the temperature. plus, it's packed with protein for that post-dinner energy boost.

This iron steak recipes is perfect for a weekend treat or impressing your mates. What makes it special? The perfect sear and juicy interior you can achieve at home!

Get Your Kit Together

Before we dive in, grab your ingredients! you'll need a good steak, oil, butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Oh my gosh, i can already smell it! then, get your 12-inch cast iron skillet. trust me, it's the key.

Right, the steak recipes pan section is up next!

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty! we're talking about cooking steak in cast iron , and trust me, once you master this, you'll be showing off to your mates every weekend.

It's way easier than you think.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Okay, first things first. you'll need a good steak. i usually go for a ribeye or new york strip. you want about 12-16 ounces (that's 340-450g for you metric folks) and at least 1 inch thick.

The thicker, the better. look for good marbling – that’s the white flecks of fat running through the steak. that equals flavour, mate.

Then you'll need:

• 1 tablespoon (15ml) of high-heat oil, like avocado or canola.
• 1 tablespoon (14g) of unsalted butter – don't skimp!
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme.

Seasoning Notes

Seasoning is where the magic happens, yeah? I'm a purist. Good quality beef doesn't need much to shine. But a little help never hurts.

• My go-to: 1 teaspoon (5g) kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) garlic powder.
• Want a bit of a kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.
• No fresh herbs? A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary will do in a pinch. Honestly, though, fresh is always better. You can also try a flat iron steak cast iron skillet recipe for a change!.

Equipment Needed

Right, here's what you need for this pan cooked steak bonanza.

• A 12-inch cast iron skillet . Honestly, this is non-negotiable.
• A meat thermometer. Crucial for getting the stovetop steak to your desired doneness.
• Tongs. To flip that bad boy without stabbing it and losing all those lovely juices.
• Don't have a cast iron skillet? While it's not ideal, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan might work. But seriously, invest in a cast iron skillet. You'll thank me later. It's a great way to cook a steak on stove . Plenty of great iron steak recipes out there use the same technique!

Cooking the perfect steak on stovetop is all about the sear. this method delivers every time!. don't you dare get a grey, boiled steak, that´s why the cast iron skillet steak in oven makes wonders.

You can also bake a flat iron steak recipes in cast iron using this method.

This steak recipes pan delivers every time.

Right then, let's get this steak sizzling! You know, there's something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly cooked steak, isn't there? It’s like, the ultimate comfort food that makes any day better.

Cast Iron Cowboy: Your Ultimate Pan-Seared Steak

Honestly, cooking steak in cast iron is a game-changer. i remember the first time i tried it. total disaster! smoked out the whole flat, and the steak was, well, let's just say the dog enjoyed it more than i did.

But i persevered, and now i'm sharing my foolproof method so you don't have to suffer the same smoky fate! forget the barbecue, this brings the magic indoors.

This pan cooked steak recipe unlocks the secrets to achieving a perfectly seared, juicy steak with that restaurant-quality crust using your trusty cast iron skillet.

Think deep, rich flavours and a tender interior.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

• Essential mise en place : First things first, gather your troops! You'll need your ribeye or New York strip steak (12-16 ounces), high-heat oil, butter, garlic, rosemary or thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Time-saving organization tips : Pat that steak dry. Seriously, bone dry . This is key for a proper sear. Then, season it generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This lets the seasoning work its magic.
• Safety reminders : Don't be a numpty! Hot oil splatters, so be careful when adding the steak to the skillet. Have your smoke detector handy too. You've been warned.

Sizzling Success: The Step-by-Step Process

1. Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over high heat for at least 5 minutes , until smoking hot.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of high-heat oil. It should shimmer immediately.
3. Carefully place the steak in the skillet. Sear for 2- 3 minutes per side , undisturbed, for a deep brown crust. This is where the flat iron steak cast iron skillet magic happens!
4. Reduce heat to medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon butter, 2 crushed garlic cloves, and 2 sprigs rosemary or thyme. Baste the steak for 2- 3 minutes , until Flat Iron Steak Recipes are coming to life, pouring flavour all over the steak .
5. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: Rare: 125- 130° F (52- 54° C) , Medium-Rare: 130- 135° F (54- 57° C) , Medium: 135- 145° F (57- 63° C) .
6. Remove the steak and rest it, tented with foil, for at least 10 minutes .
7. Slice against the grain and serve! Enjoy your Iron Steak Recipes !

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Steak Game

• The skillet must be screaming hot, like molten lava. This ensures a proper sear for your stovetop steak .
• Don't skip the rest! This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier steak on stovetop .
• A common mistake is overcrowding the pan. Sear in batches if needed. The goal is a good steak on stove , not boiled beef!

So there you have it – cooking steak in cast iron is easier than you think! Go on, give it a go!

Right, let’s talk a bit more about this cooking steak in cast iron malarkey, shall we? it’s not just about chucking a piece of meat in a hot pan, you know! i mean, you can , but you won't get that proper restaurant feel.

Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Cast Iron Skillet Steak In Oven

Honestly, it's the little things that elevate a good pan cooked steak to a bloody brilliant one. That's what we are after, right?

Serving Suggestions: Show it Off!

Presentation matters, even if it's just for you. plate your perfectly steak on stovetop with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

A sprig of rosemary adds a touch of class.

Think about your sides, too. classic creamy mash is always a winner. for something lighter, a vibrant salad cuts through the richness.

Fancy a tipple? a robust red wine or a cold beer will go down a treat!

Storage Tips: No Waste, Just Taste

Leftovers? Lucky you! Keep that stovetop steak in the fridge, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days. I reckon its better cold, you know?

Reheating? best to gently warm it in a low oven. microwaving it is a capital crime and will end up as an eraser.

For the best reheating, cook your flat iron steak cast iron skillet in the oven! if you are thinking freezing option, i wouldn't bother mate.

Variations: Make it Your Own!

Not a fan of garlic? Leave it out, no worries. Wanna spice things up? A pinch of chilli flakes in the seasoning will add a kick.

Want to be healthier? Go for a leaner cut or serve with loads of veggies. Seasonal swaps? Asparagus in spring, roasted root vegetables in autumn – you get the picture! You can adapt your iron steak recipes as you wish!

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body

Okay, so this isn't a diet food, right? But steak recipes pan are packed with protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle.

Plus, iron is important for energy levels. just remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

We can say roughly that this recipe has near 700 calories, so don't freak out

Right then, armed with these notes, you’re ready to create some magic. You can also try other types of cuts, like flat iron steak recipes .

Don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun cooking steak in cast iron . You’ve got this, and I know you'll enjoy a proper steak on stove tonight!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to let the steak rest at room temperature before cooking steak in cast iron?

Taking your steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly. A cold steak will take longer to heat up in the center, leading to an overcooked exterior while you wait for the middle to reach the desired temperature. Think of it like letting your cuppa cool a bit before taking that first sip – patience pays off!

What's the best way to get a good sear when cooking steak in cast iron?

The key to a fantastic sear is high heat and a dry steak! Make sure your cast iron skillet is smoking hot before adding the oil, and then pat the steak completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Don't overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary. That Maillard reaction (browning) is what gives you that delicious crust we're all after.

How do I know when my steak is done cooking in cast iron?

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to gauge doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Refer to the internal temperature guidelines (rare, medium-rare, etc.) provided in the recipe. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests, so pull it off the heat a few degrees before your target temperature.

Can I use different cuts of steak when cooking steak in cast iron?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests ribeye or New York strip, other cuts like sirloin or even a thicker-cut flank steak can work well. Just be mindful that leaner cuts like sirloin might require slightly less cooking time, and flank steak benefits from being sliced thinly against the grain after resting. Experiment and find your favorite! Some chefs swear by cast iron for any cut they are cooking.

How should I store leftover cooked steak from cooking steak in cast iron?

Let the steak cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet with a little butter or oil, or slice it thinly and add it to salads or sandwiches. Leftover steak is brilliant in a steak and eggs breakfast, too!

I'm watching my weight, is cooking steak in cast iron still a good option?

Yes, you can still enjoy steak while being mindful of your health! Choose a leaner cut like sirloin or filet mignon, and trim any excess fat. Opt for a smaller portion size, and load up on healthy sides like steamed vegetables or a big green salad. Remember, moderation is key, even when enjoying a delicious cast iron steak.

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