Grilling steaks is an art form that combines technique, timing, and a little culinary magic. Whether you’re a novice griller or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you grill a great steak every time.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Cut
Before you fire up the grill, selecting the right cut of steak is crucial. Here are some popular options:
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling and flavor, ribeye is tender and juicy.
- New York Strip: A balance of tenderness and flavor with a bit less marbling than ribeye.
- Filet Mignon: The most tender cut, known for its buttery texture, but with less beefy flavor.
- T-Bone/Porterhouse: Combines the tenderness of the filet and the flavor of the strip.
Step 2: Preparing Your Steak
- Seasoning: Simple is best: Use coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. For additional flavor, consider garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. Cover all sides of the steak with seasoning at least 30 minutes before grilling. For deeper flavor, season and refrigerate the steaks overnight.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Take the steaks out of the fridge about 30-45 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Preparing the Grill
- Do a quick check to be sure your grill grates are clean; this will prevent sticking and ensure proper grill marks. If they aren’t, brush away any bits that you can and make a mental note to schedule deep cleaning with a good professional grill cleaning company in your area.
- Preheat the grill. Ensure your grill is hot before placing the steaks on it. Aim for a temperature of around 450-500°F for direct heat grilling.
Step 4: Grilling the Steaks
- Place the steaks on the grill at a 45-degree angle to the grates. After 2-3 minutes, rotate 90 degrees (this will create crosshatch marks).
- Flip the steaks and repeat the process on the other side.
- Choose the right cook time for each steak, and use a meat thermometer. As a general guide:
- Rare (120-130°F): 2-3 minutes per side
- Medium Rare (130-135°F): 3-4 minutes per side
- Medium (135-145°F): 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium Well (145-155°F): 5-6 minutes per side
- Well Done (155°F and higher): 6-7 minutes per side
- After grilling, let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes. (This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak).
Step 5: Clean that Grill!
After every use, be sure to clean your grill grates with a grill cleaning brush, empty the drip tray, and ensure your grill is clean and ready for the next cookout. Cleaning after every use, as well as hiring good professional grill cleaners to deep clean your grill when needed, will help ensure your grill stays in good shape for years to come. There are many good grill cleaning services throughout the Jacksonville area, including Riverside, Mandarin, Southside, and the Beaches, but GrillSOS is the best professional grill cleaning company Jacksonville FL homeowners trust with their grills. Call us today to book your expert grill cleaning!