If you’re looking for the perfect 7 steak recipe to satisfy your cravings, you’re in the right place! Whether you love juicy, flavorful ribeye steaks or prefer the tenderness of filet mignon, these 7 steak recipes are designed to elevate your cooking game. From casual dinners to special occasions, steak recipes are not only delicious but incredibly versatile, making them ideal for any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore seven mouthwatering 7 steak recipes that are easy to make and will leave you craving more. From grilled ribeye steaks to pan-seared filet mignon, we’ve got a recipe for every steak lover. Plus, we’ll also share helpful tips and tricks on how to make sure your steak comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor every time.
Essential Ingredients for Steak Recipes
1 Choosing the Right Cut of Steak for Your Recipe
When it comes to steak recipes, the cut of steak you choose is crucial to the dish’s flavor and texture. Each type of steak has its own characteristics, and knowing which cut works best for different recipes will help you achieve the perfect result every time.
For example, ribeye steaks are well-known for their rich marbling and bold flavor, making them ideal for grilling or pan-searing. On the other hand, filet mignon is renowned for its tenderness and is often the star of special occasion meals, typically cooked using the skillet method or grilled.
Here are some cuts you can consider for each recipe:
- Ribeye: Known for its marbling, making it juicy and flavorful.
- Sirloin: Leaner and great for grilling, often used in easy weeknight steak recipes.
- Filet Mignon: Tender and delicate, perfect for a special meal.
- T-Bone: A combination of strip steak and tenderloin, offering the best of both worlds.
When selecting your steak, look for cuts that are fresh and well-marbled for the best taste and texture.
2 Marinades and Seasonings for Steaks
To take your steak recipes to the next level, don’t forget the importance of marinades and seasonings. Marinades infuse the meat with flavor and can help tenderize tougher cuts, while seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the steak.
Here are some marinade ideas to try:
- Garlic and Herb Marinade: Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon juice together. This mix will tenderize your steak while adding fresh, aromatic flavors.
- Soy Sauce Marinade: For a deeper, savory flavor, combine soy sauce with brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
- Cajun Rub: A spicy, flavorful rub made from paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano will give your steak a bold kick.
When seasoning your steak, a simple salt and pepper rub can be all you need for a classic, delicious steak. However, experimenting with different seasoning blends can help you create a variety of steak dishes.
3 Tools You Need for Perfect Steak Cooking
The right tools make a significant difference when it comes to cooking your steak to perfection. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, having the right equipment will ensure your steak turns out juicy and flavorful.
Here are a few essential tools to help you:
- Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for checking the internal temperature of your steak, ensuring it’s cooked exactly how you like it. For example, a medium-rare steak should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping and turning the steak without piercing the meat, helping retain its juices.
- Grill or Skillet: Both are excellent for cooking steaks. A cast-iron skillet is especially great for achieving a perfect sear, while a grill imparts a smoky flavor.
Make sure your tools are ready before you begin cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Top 7 Steak Recipes to Try
In this section, we’ll dive into 7 mouthwatering steak recipes that will elevate your cooking skills and impress anyone at your dinner table. Each recipe is unique and simple to follow, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef. So, let’s get cooking!
Recipe 1: Classic Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak
Ingredients and Preparation
- 1 Ribeye steak (1 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
- Preparation: Start by removing your ribeye steak from the fridge and letting it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Seasoning: Apply a generous amount of salt and pepper to both sides of the steak.
- Searing: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to heat until it shimmers.
- Cooking: Place the steak in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side (for medium-rare). Add butter, garlic, and thyme to the skillet in the last minute, basting the steak with the melted butter.
- Resting: Remove the steak and let it rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Sear
- High heat is essential for a good sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it will lower the temperature.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. For medium-rare, it should read 130°F (54°C).
Recipe 2: Grilled Sirloin with Garlic Butter
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 Sirloin steaks (1 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Chopped parsley (optional)
How to Grill Sirloin to Perfection
- Marinate: Combine olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic in a small bowl. Marinate the sirloin steaks for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Resting: Let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes after grilling.
Making the Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce
- Heat the butter in a saucepan over low heat until melted.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant
- Pour over the grilled steaks and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe 3: Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 Filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
- 1 cup red wine (non-alcoholic alternative optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking the Filet Mignon to the Right Level of Doneness
- Preparation: Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper to taste.
- Searing: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish.
- Resting: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
Recipe 4: Grilled T-Bone Steak with Chimichurri
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 T-bone steaks (1.5 inches thick)
- For Chimichurri:
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Best Way to Grill a T-Bone
- Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side for a medium-rare result. Flip just once to achieve the best grill marks.
Making and Serving Chimichurri Sauce
- Mix all the chimichurri ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
- Serve the grilled T-bone with a generous drizzle of chimichurri sauce. It adds a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich flavor of the steak.
Recipe 5: Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa
Ingredients and Preparation
- 1 Flank steak (1.5 lbs)
- For Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Grilling the Flank Steak
- Marinate the flank steak with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill over high heat for 4-6 minutes per side until medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Making a Refreshing Avocado Salsa
- Combine diced avocado, onion, tomato, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the grilled flank steak with a generous scoop of fresh avocado salsa.
Recipe 6: Pan-Seared Skirt Steak with Spicy Cajun Rub
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 Skirt steaks (1 lb)
- For Cajun Rub:
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Skillet-Searing the Skirt Steak for Maximum Flavor
- Rub the skirt steak with the Cajun rub mixture. Let it sit for 15 minutes
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Resting: Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Recipe 7: Steak Frites (French Style)
Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 Sirloin steaks (8 oz each)
- For Fries:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, to taste
Cooking the Steak and Crispy Fries
- Fry the potatoes in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
- Cook the steaks using your preferred method (pan-seared or grilled) to your desired doneness.
Pairing with Béarnaise Sauce
- Make béarnaise sauce by whisking egg yolks with melted butter, adding tarragon, and finishing with vinegar and shallots.
- Serve the steak with a side of crispy fries and a drizzle of béarnaise sauce for a true French dining experience.
Steak Cooking Techniques for the Perfect Result
1 How to Cook Steak to Your Preferred Doneness
The key to a perfect steak lies in cooking it to your preferred level of doneness. Understanding the different doneness levels and how to achieve them will ensure your steak comes out just right every time.
- Rare: The steak is seared on the outside, but the inside remains red and cool. The internal temperature should be around 120-130°F (49-54°C).
- Medium-rare: The steak has a warm red center and is slightly pink. It should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Medium: The steak has a light pink center and is firmer to the touch. Aim for an internal temperature of 135-145°F (57-63°C).
- Medium-well: The steak has only a slight trace of pink, and the internal temperature should be 145-155°F (63-68°C).
- Well-done: The steak is cooked through with no pink left, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) or more.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Doneness:
- Consider carryover cooking, where the steak continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat. This is important, especially for steaks that are grilled or pan-seared.
- Remember, thinner cuts of steak cook faster, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
2 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Steak
Even seasoned cooks can fall victim to common steak-cooking mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking: One of the most common mistakes is leaving the steak on the heat for too long. This leads to dry, tough meat. Always monitor the internal temperature closely, and remember that carryover cooking will continue the process once you take the steak off the heat.
- Under-seasoning: A steak needs more than just a sprinkle of salt. Season generously with salt and pepper, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices for added flavor.
- Not allowing the steak to rest: Skipping the resting step can cause the juices to spill out when you cut into your steak. The juices need time to redistribute for a tender, juicy bite.
How to Avoid These Errors:
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Season your steak well before cooking.
- Always allow your steak to rest after cooking for the best results.
3 The Importance of Resting Steak
Resting your steak is one of the most important yet often overlooked steps in steak preparation. After cooking, it’s crucial to let the steak rest before slicing into it. Here’s why:
- Flavor and Juiciness: When you cook a steak, the juices are pushed towards the center of the meat. Resting allows these juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Prevents Dryness: Cutting into the steak too soon can cause the juices to leak out, leaving the meat dry. Resting the steak helps maintain its moisture.
How Long Should You Rest Your Steak?
- For most cuts, resting for about 5-10 minutes is sufficient. The thicker the steak, the longer you’ll want to rest it.
- A loose tent of foil over your steak during resting will help keep it warm without trapping too much steam.
Pairing Steak with Side Dishes and Drinks
1 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Steak
A great steak deserves an equally delicious side dish. The right pairing can enhance the flavors of your steak and make the meal feel complete. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with steak, whether you’re enjoying a ribeye or a filet mignon.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic steak side dish. Their rich, buttery texture complements the savory flavors of any steak. For extra flair, try adding roasted garlic or cheese to the mix.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini bring a smoky depth to your steak dinner. Their charred flavor pairs wonderfully with the natural richness of sirloin or T-bone steaks.
- Salads: A fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach adds a light and refreshing contrast to the heaviness of steak. Dress it with a simple vinaigrette or a tangy balsamic glaze for an extra kick.
- Creamed Spinach: This decadent side pairs beautifully with filet mignon and ribeye. The creamy, slightly cheesy spinach balances out the richness of the steak and adds a creamy texture to each bite.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic are an excellent match for grilled steaks like flank or skirt. They offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender meat.
Pairing for Different Steak Types:
- Ribeye: Pair with rich, creamy sides like mashed potatoes or creamed spinach.
- Sirloin: A great match for grilled vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the lean meat.
- Filet Mignon: Consider light sides like a simple salad or roasted potatoes to let the delicate flavor of the steak shine.
- T-Bone: Go for hearty sides like roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables that can hold up to this bold cut.
2 Wines and Drinks to Complement Your Steak
When it comes to pairing drinks with steak, wine is often the first choice. However, there are plenty of options—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—that can complement the rich flavors of steak.
Red Wines for Steak:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A bold red wine with deep tannins, it pairs perfectly with steaks like ribeye, sirloin, and T-bone. The wine’s structure and acidity help cut through the richness of the meat.
- Merlot: For a smoother, fruitier option, go for Merlot. It complements leaner steaks like filet mignon and sirloin without overpowering their delicate flavors.
- Malbec: If you prefer something a bit bolder, try a Malbec with your steak. Its full body and dark fruit flavors are great with steaks that have a smoky char, like grilled ribeye or T-bone.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Options:
- Sparkling Water: The effervescence of sparkling water provides a refreshing contrast to rich, fatty steaks. A slice of lemon or lime adds a touch of brightness.
- Iced Tea: A chilled glass of unsweetened iced tea is a great non-alcoholic choice. It has a clean, neutral flavor that pairs well with the natural taste of steak.
- Lemonade: For a tangy, refreshing option, lemonade is a great way to balance the savory and smoky flavors of steak, especially grilled cuts.
FAQ – Common Questions About 7 Steak Recipes
What is the Best Cut of Steak for Beginners in a 7 Steak Recipe?
If you’re just starting out with steak, some cuts are easier to cook than others. For beginners, sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices for a 7 steak recipe. These cuts are tender and forgiving, making them ideal for grilling or pan-searing. Sirloin is lean but still juicy, while ribeye has more marbling, which gives it great flavor and moisture. Both cuts are easy to cook, and with the right seasoning, they can be delicious even without a lot of experience.
How Do I Make Steak Tender for a 7 Steak Recipe?
Making steak tender starts before you even begin cooking. Here are some effective methods for tenderizing steak for your 7 steak recipe:
- Marinating: Using acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt in a marinade can break down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender.
- Pounding: Gently pounding the steak with a meat mallet can help break up tough muscle fibers.
- Salt: Applying a generous amount of salt to the steak and letting it rest for about 40 minutes can help draw out moisture, which will later be reabsorbed, making the steak more tender.
- Cooking Method: Using a gentle cooking method like slow cooking or sous-vide can also result in a tender steak, especially for tougher cuts. This will ensure your 7 steak recipe has a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for These 7 Steak Recipes?
Absolutely! While the 7 steak recipes listed here are designed for specific cuts, you can substitute other steak cuts based on your preferences and what you have available. For example:
- Instead of ribeye, you can use New York strip for a leaner option.
- Flank steak works well as a substitute for skirt steak in 7 steak recipes that call for grilling.
- If you’re out of filet mignon, tenderloin can be a great alternative for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Just be sure to adjust your cooking times based on the thickness and tenderness of the steak you’re using.
How Long Should I Cook a Steak on Each Side for My 7 Steak Recipe?
Cooking times vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. Here’s a general guideline for steaks that are about 1 inch thick in your 7 steak recipe:
- Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 3-4 minutes per side
- Medium: 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 5-6 minutes per side
- Well-done: 6-7 minutes per side
For thicker steaks, increase the cooking time slightly and use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness in your 7 steak recipe.
How Do I Know When My Steak Is Done in a 7 Steak Recipe?
The best way to check if your steak is done in your 7 steak recipe is by using a meat thermometer. Here’s a quick guide to doneness:
- Rare: 120-130°F (49-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium-well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) or more
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned steak lover, these 7 steak recipes and tips will help you cook the perfect steak every time. From selecting the right cut to mastering the cooking techniques, experimenting with different 7 steak recipes is the key to discovering what you truly enjoy. So, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen, try new cuts, and make these steak recipes your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your perfectly cooked steak!