How to Grill Steaks to Perfection: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose the Right Steak

The first step to grilling a great steak is selecting the right cut. Look for steaks with good marbling, which adds flavor and juiciness. Popular cuts for grilling include:

• Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling and bold flavor.
• New York Strip: A classic choice with a balance of tenderness and flavor.
• Filet Mignon: Tender and buttery, perfect for special occasions.
• T-Bone or Porterhouse: Combines two cuts—strip and tenderloin—for the ultimate steak experience.

2. Prepare Your Steak

Proper preparation ensures your steak cooks evenly and develops maximum flavor.

• Bring to Room Temperature: Let your steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Season Generously: Use coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or your favorite dry rub.
• Pat Dry: Remove surface moisture with a paper towel to help achieve a better sear.

3. Preheat Your Grill

For perfect steaks, your grill needs to be hot.

• High Heat for Searing: The center grate of an Arteflame Grill, for example, reaches over 1,000°F, ideal for creating a steakhouse-quality crust.
• Zone Setup: If using a traditional grill, set up direct and indirect heat zones to control cooking.

4. Sear Your Steak

The sear is what gives your steak its caramelized crust and rich flavor.

• Place on the Hottest Part of the Grill: Lay the steak on the grill’s center grate or direct heat zone.
• Sear Each Side: Cook each side for 2-3 minutes without moving to develop a crust.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give each steak space to cook evenly.

5. Cook to Desired Doneness

After searing, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or the Arteflame’s flat top griddle to finish cooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy:

• Rare: 120°F
• Medium Rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium Well: 150°F
• Well Done: 160°F

Remove the steak from the grill 5-10°F below your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.

6. Rest the Steak

Resting is essential to keeping your steak juicy. Place the steak on a cutting board and tent it with foil for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

7. Add Finishing Touches

Elevate your grilled steak with finishing touches:

• Compound Butter: Melt a pat of herb butter over the steak for extra richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flair.
• Flaky Salt: Sprinkle finishing salt to enhance the flavor.

8. Pair with Grilled Sides

Complete your steak dinner with these grill-friendly sides:

• Asparagus: Grill with butter and a squeeze of lemon.
• Baked Potatoes: Wrap in foil and cook directly on the grill.
• Mushrooms: Sauté on the flat top with garlic and butter.
• Corn on the Cob: Grill until charred and serve with seasoned butter.

Pro Tips for Grilling Steaks

1. Use the Right Tools: A good set of tongs, a meat thermometer, and a sturdy scraper for cleaning the grill are essential.
2. Don’t Flip Too Often: Letting the steak sit undisturbed allows for even searing.
3. Stay Patient: Great steaks take time, especially when aiming for a perfectly pink interior.

The Final Sizzle

Grilling steaks is as much about the process as it is about the result. By selecting the right cut, mastering the sear, and finishing with precision, you can create a steak that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. With the Arteflame Grill’s high-heat center grate and flat-top versatility, grilling steak becomes an effortless way to enjoy steakhouse-quality meals in your own backyard.

Get your grill ready, grab your favorite steak, and savor the art of grilling perfection.