The Perfect American Steak Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Steak is one of the most iconic dishes in American cuisine, known for its rich flavors, juicy texture, and perfectly seared crust. Whether enjoyed at a fine dining restaurant or prepared at home, a well-cooked steak delivers an unforgettable experience. This recipe will guide you through the process of making a restaurant-quality steak, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.

Ingredients for American Steak

To make the perfect steak, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 2 ribeye steaks (or New York strip, filet mignon, or T-bone), about 1.5 inches thick
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

For Serving:

• Mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or steamed asparagus
• Steak sauce or compound butter (optional)

Instructions to Make American Steak

Follow these steps to prepare the ultimate steak:

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing for better searing.
3. Rub both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Option 1: Cooking Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot.
2. Carefully place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them.
3. Flip the steaks and add butter, garlic, and rosemary (or thyme) to the pan.
4. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter for 1-2 minutes.
   
   
5. Continue cooking until the desired doneness is reached:

• Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
• Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
• Medium-Well: 150-155°F (65-68°C)
• Well-Done: 160°F+ (71°C+)

Option 2: Grilling Steak

1. Preheat the grill to 450-500°F (232-260°C).
2. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side with the lid closed.
3. Move the steaks to indirect heat and continue grilling until they reach the desired doneness.
4. Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
   
   

Step 3: Serve the Steak

1. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
3. Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or steamed asparagus.
4. Optionally, top the steak with compound butter or serve with a classic steak sauce

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect American steak at home is easier than you think! By following these steps, you can achieve a steakhouse-quality meal with a rich, flavorful crust and tender, juicy interior. Whether pan-seared or grilled, this classic steak recipe is a must-try for any meat lover.

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