Cooking steak on a barbecue can be a delicious and enjoyable experience. However, achieving the perfect doneness can be challenging for many grill enthusiasts. The cooking time for steak on a BBQ depends on several factors, including the thickness of the steak, the desired level of doneness, and the type of grill being used.
For a tender and juicy steak, it is important to properly prepare the meat before cooking. This can involve seasoning the steak with your favorite spices, allowing it to come to room temperature, and properly preheating the grill. These steps help to enhance the flavors and ensure even cooking throughout the steak.
When it comes to cooking times, it is essential to have a meat thermometer on hand to accurately measure the internal temperature of the steak. This ensures that the steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness – whether it’s rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done.
In general, a 1-inch-thick steak will take about 4-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For every additional 1/2 inch of thickness, add about 2 minutes of cooking time. Keep in mind that these times are merely guidelines, and it is important to adjust the cooking time based on the individual characteristics of the steak and your personal preferences for doneness.
Grilling the Perfect Steak
Grilling a steak to perfection is an art that requires proper technique and attention to detail. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these tips will help you achieve a perfectly cooked steak on your barbecue.
Choose the Right Cut of Steak
Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial for a flavorful and tender result. Some popular cuts for grilling include ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon. Look for steaks that have a good amount of marbling and are at least 1 inch thick.
Season the Steak
Before grilling, season your steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices and herbs for additional flavor. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your barbecue grill to high heat. This helps to sear the steak and lock in the juices. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the hot grill and let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness. Avoid overcooking the steak as it can result in a tough and dry texture.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C), and for medium, it should be around 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will result in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot. You can also add a pat of butter or your favorite steak sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
By following these simple steps, you can grill the perfect steak every time. Experiment with different cuts and seasonings to find your own signature grilling technique.
Choosing the Right Cut
When it comes to cooking steak on the BBQ, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Different cuts of steak have different levels of tenderness and marbling, which can affect the cooking time and the final result.
1. Ribeye
Ribeye is a popular cut of steak known for its rich flavor and tenderness. It has a good amount of marbling, which adds to its rich taste. Ribeye steaks are usually thick and can be cooked to various levels of doneness, including medium-rare, medium, or well-done.
2. Striploin
Striploin, also known as New York strip or sirloin steak, is another great option for grilling. It has less fat compared to ribeye but still offers a tender and flavorful bite. Striploin steaks are usually leaner and cook relatively quickly on the BBQ. Aim for a medium level of doneness to retain juiciness.
3. Tenderloin
Tenderloin, also known as filet mignon, is a lean and tender cut of steak. It is the most tender and has a mild flavor. Tenderloin steaks are best cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness to maintain their tenderness. They cook faster than other cuts due to their size, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Other popular cuts for BBQ include T-bone, Porterhouse, and flank steak. T-bone and Porterhouse steaks offer the combination of tenderloin and striploin in one cut, providing both tenderness and flavor. Flank steak is a thin and long cut with a rich beefy flavor, ideal for marinating and grilling quickly over high heat.
When choosing the right cut of steak for your BBQ, consider your taste preferences and cooking time. Thicker cuts may require longer cooking times, while leaner cuts cook faster. Keep in mind, the key to a perfectly cooked steak is using a meat thermometer to ensure your desired level of doneness.
Preparing the Steak
Before cooking your steak on the BBQ, it’s important to properly prepare it to ensure a delicious and tender result. Follow these steps to get your steak ready:
1. Choose a high-quality steak: Look for a steak with marbling, or small flecks of fat within the meat, as this will contribute to flavor and tenderness. Popular choices for grilling include ribeye, T-bone, or New York strip steaks.
2. Season the steak: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add any additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the grill: Preheat your BBQ to high heat. This will help sear the steak and lock in the juices. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Pat dry the steak: Before placing the steak on the grill, pat it dry with a paper towel. This will remove any excess moisture and help to develop a nice crust on the outside of the steak.
5. Oil the steak: Lightly brush both sides of the steak with oil. This will prevent sticking and promote even browning. Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola oil.
Now that you’ve prepared your steak, it’s time to get cooking! Make sure to follow proper cooking times and techniques to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Seasoning the Meat
Before cooking your steak on the BBQ, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Seasoning helps to bring out the natural taste of the meat and adds extra layers of deliciousness.
Start by patting the steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick better to the meat.
Next, generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat, while the pepper adds a hint of spiciness.
If desired, you can also add additional seasonings to further enhance the taste of your steak. Popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a steak rub of your choice. You can experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite flavor profile.
Once the steak is seasoned, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat and helps to tenderize it.
Remember, seasoning is a personal preference, so feel free to adjust the amount and type of seasonings according to your taste. However, be careful not to over-season the steak, as it can overpower the natural flavors of the meat.
Note: It’s important to season the steak just before it goes on the BBQ, as salt can draw out moisture from the meat if left on for too long.
Preheating the BBQ
Before cooking your steak, it is important to preheat your BBQ to the appropriate temperature. Preheating allows the grill grates to get hot, which helps to sear the steak and lock in its juices.
Start by ensuring that the BBQ is clean and free from any residue from previous cookouts. This will prevent any unwanted flavors from transferring to your steak.
Next, open the gas valve or light your charcoal, and turn the burners to the highest setting. Close the lid and allow the BBQ to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the grill enough time to reach the desired temperature.
If using a gas BBQ, check the temperature gauge on the lid to make sure it reaches around 450-500°F (230-260°C). For charcoal BBQs, ensure that the coals are gray and glowing before placing your steak on the grill.
By preheating your BBQ properly, you can achieve deliciously seared steaks with a perfect charred exterior and a juicy, tender interior.
Cooking the Steak
Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to cook the steak. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Season the Steak
Before placing the steak on the grill, make sure to season it with your desired seasonings. A classic combination is salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Rub the seasonings onto both sides of the steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
Step 2: Preparing the Grill
Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the steak from sticking. You can use cooking spray or a brush to oil the grates. This will also help create the desirable grill marks on the steak.
Step 3: Cooking the Steak
Place the steak on the hot grill and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, depending on your preference for doneness. A general guideline is:medium-rare (130°F to 135°F), medium (135°F to 145°F), and well-done (155°F to 160°F).
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching the bone. This will give you an accurate reading.
For a medium-rare steak, cook it for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of around 130°F to 135°F. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness.
Remember to flip the steak only once during cooking to ensure proper searing and even cooking on both sides.
Step 4: Resting the Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender piece of meat. Tent the steak with aluminum foil to keep it warm during the resting period.
Now that you know how to cook steak on a BBQ, it’s time to enjoy your deliciously grilled steak! Serve it with your favorite sides and sauces, and don’t forget to savor every bite.
Q&A
How long should I cook a thick steak on a BBQ?
A thick steak, such as a 1-inch thick ribeye, should be cooked on a BBQ for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness.
What temperature should I cook steak on the BBQ?
For a medium-rare steak, it is recommended to cook it on a BBQ at a temperature of 450°F (230°C) to 500°F (260°C).
Can I cook a steak on a BBQ for too long?
Yes, overcooking a steak on a BBQ can result in a tough and dry texture. It is important to monitor the cooking time and temperature to prevent this from happening.
Is it necessary to flip the steak while cooking it on a BBQ?
Yes, it is recommended to flip the steak at least once while cooking it on a BBQ. This ensures even cooking and helps to develop a nice sear on both sides of the steak.
How do I know when the steak is done cooking on a BBQ?
You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, the temperature should be around 130°F (55°C) to 135°F (57°C). Another method is to use the finger test, where you press the steak with your finger to gauge its doneness based on the firmness.
How long should I grill a 1-inch thick steak?
For a 1-inch thick steak, you should grill it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you prefer it to be medium, cook it for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
What is the cooking time for a well-done steak on the BBQ?
A well-done steak will take longer to cook on the BBQ. For a 1-inch thick steak, you should grill it for about 7-8 minutes on each side. This will ensure that it is cooked all the way through and there is no pinkness left. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the temperature of your grill.