Pan Fried Steak Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 01, 2025

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Pan-Fried Steak: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Are you craving a juicy, flavorful steak but intimidated by complicated recipes? Look no further! This pan-fried steak recipe is incredibly easy to follow, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, yet delivers restaurant-quality results. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious and satisfying meal.

What You'll Need:

This recipe focuses on simplicity, allowing the natural flavor of the steak to shine. You'll need:

• 1 (8-ounce) steak: Ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin all work wonderfully. Choose a steak that's at least 1 inch thick for optimal results.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of your steak.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Use kosher salt for best results.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional): Adding butter at the end adds richness and a lovely brown crust.
• Fresh herbs (optional): Rosemary, thyme, or garlic are excellent additions for extra flavor.

Preparing Your Steak for Pan-Frying Perfection:

Before you begin cooking, ensure your steak is at room temperature. This allows for even cooking throughout. Pat the steak dry with paper towels; this crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them on now as well.

Pan-Frying Your Steak: The Step-by-Step Guide

1. Heat the pan: Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. The pan should be screaming hot before you add the steak; this is key for a good sear.
2. Sear the steak: Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet. Don't overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side to create a beautiful brown crust.
3. Reduce heat and cook to your liking: Once seared, reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking to your desired level of doneness:
   • Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
   • Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
   • Medium-well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
   • Well-done: 145°F+ (63°C+)
4. Add butter (optional): During the last minute of cooking, add the butter to the pan. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak, basting it to add flavor and richness.
5. Rest the steak: Once cooked, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Serving Suggestions:

This pan-fried steak is incredibly versatile. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as:

• Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with steak.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment.
• Salad: A simple green salad adds freshness and lightness to the meal.

Tips for Pan-Fried Steak Success:

• Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent proper searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Let the steak rest: This is crucial for a juicy and tender steak.

Enjoy your perfectly pan-fried steak! With this simple recipe, you can easily create a delicious and impressive meal at home. Remember to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to find your perfect combination.