What You’ll Need:
- 1 thick cut beef steak (such as ribeye or NY strip), around 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or clarified butter (ghee)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), roughly chopped (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by taking the beef steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Preheat the Pan
Place a heavy-duty skillet or frying pan (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get hot for a couple of minutes. You want the surface to be very hot to achieve a good sear.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Add the vegetable oil or clarified butter to the hot pan. Carefully place the seasoned steak in the pan, laying it away from you to prevent oil splatters. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a beautiful golden crust forms. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C) using a meat thermometer.
Step 4: Add Extra Flavor (optional)
If desired, you can elevate the flavors of your steak by adding minced garlic and fresh herbs to the pan during the last minute of searing. Gently press them onto the steak with a spoon, allowing the aromatics to infuse into the meat.
Step 5: Rest the Steak
Transfer the seared steak to a cutting board or plate and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak when you cut into it.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After the resting period, thinly slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve your perfectly cooked pan-seared beef steak with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato.
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking the perfect pan-seared beef steak, be ready to savor every bite! Remember, practice makes perfect, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings and cooking times to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!