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December 10, 2024
If you’re a steak lover, then you’re probably familiar with the mouthwatering taste of a tender and juicy flat iron steak. Cooking a flat iron steak on the stove is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this cut of meat. However, it’s important to know how long to cook it to achieve the perfect doneness.
Flat iron steak is known for its marbling and tenderness, which makes it an excellent choice for stovetop cooking. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak, your desired level of doneness, and the type of stove you’re using.
A general rule of thumb for cooking a flat iron steak on the stove is to sear it on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, and then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. If you prefer your steak more well-done, you can cook it for a few minutes longer on each side.
It’s important to note that the cooking times mentioned above are just guidelines, and the best way to determine the doneness of your steak is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C), while for medium, it should be around 145°F (63°C).
How Long to Cook Flat Iron Steak on Stove
Cooking a flat iron steak on the stove is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this tender cut of meat. With the right cooking technique, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful steak that is perfect for any meal.
To cook a flat iron steak on the stove, you will need a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed frying pan. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Start by bringing the steak to room temperature. Take it out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your skillet or pan over medium-high heat. You want it to be hot, but not smoking.
- While the pan is heating up, season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning.
- Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil. You can use olive oil, canola oil, or any oil with a high smoke point.
- Place the steak in the hot pan and let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This will give you a nice crust on the outside.
- After searing, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the steak for about 4-6 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, it should be around 135°F (57°C).
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the steak moist.
- Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked flat iron steak!
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking.
Now that you know how long to cook a flat iron steak on the stove, you can enjoy this delicious cut of meat anytime!
Choosing the Right Flat Iron Steak
When it comes to cooking a delicious flat iron steak on the stove, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial.
Flat iron steak is known for its tenderness and flavor. It is a relatively lean cut of meat that comes from the shoulder of the cow. When selecting a flat iron steak, there are a few things to consider.
Firstly, look for a steak that is well-marbled with thin streaks of fat running through the meat. This marbling is what gives the steak its tenderness and juiciness when cooked.
Secondly, pay attention to the color of the steak. A fresh, high-quality flat iron steak should have a deep red color. Avoid steaks that are gray or brown in color, as this could indicate spoilage.
Lastly, consider the thickness of the steak. Flat iron steaks are typically around 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness allows for even cooking and ensures that the steak remains juicy.
By carefully selecting the right flat iron steak, you can ensure that your stove-cooked meal turns out tender, flavorful, and delicious.
Preparing the Flat Iron Steak
Before cooking your flat iron steak on the stove, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that it turns out tender and flavorful. Follow these preparation instructions for best results:
Gather Your Ingredients
First, gather all of the ingredients you’ll need for the recipe:
- 1 flat iron steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Any additional spices or marinades you prefer
Season the Steak
Next, season the flat iron steak with salt and pepper, or any other desired spices or marinades. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat. Be sure to coat both sides of the steak evenly.
Let It Rest
After seasoning the meat, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly and retain its juiciness.
Preheat the Stove
Meanwhile, preheat a skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan on the stove over medium-high heat. It’s important to get the pan nice and hot before searing the steak.
Sear the Steak
Once the pan is hot, add the olive oil and carefully place the seasoned flat iron steak in the pan. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
Rest and Serve
After cooking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Slice the flat iron steak against the grain and serve it hot.
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be able to cook a delicious flat iron steak on the stove.
Marinating the Flat Iron Steak
Marinating the flat iron steak is a great way to infuse it with flavor and tenderize it before cooking. Here are a few tips for marinating your steak:
- Choose a marinade that complements the flavors of the meat. Popular options include soy sauce-based marinades, citrus marinades, and herb marinades.
- Place the flat iron steak in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure the steak is fully coated. If using a ziplock bag, squeeze out any excess air before sealing it.
- Allow the steak to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 24 hours. Marinating for too long can result in the meat becoming mushy.
- If you’re short on time, you can marinate the steak at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, although the flavor won’t penetrate the meat as deeply.
Remember to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat, as it can harbor bacteria. Use a separate marinade for basting or serving alongside the cooked steak.
Cooking the Flat Iron Steak
The flat iron steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is perfect for cooking on the stove. Follow these steps to achieve delicious results:
1. Prepare the Steak
Start by taking the flat iron steak out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature. This will ensure more even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning to enhance the flavor.
2. Preheat the Pan
Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan on the stove and preheat it over medium-high heat. Heating the pan beforehand ensures that the steak cooks evenly and develops a nice crust. Avoid using non-stick pans as they may not retain heat as effectively.
3. Cook the Steak
- Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the flat iron steak in the pan, and allow it to sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.
- While cooking, avoid constantly flipping the steak as it can prevent proper browning.
- Use tongs to flip the steak and avoid using a fork, as it can pierce the meat and release its flavorful juices.
- For thicker cuts of steak, you may also finish cooking it in the oven at a low temperature to ensure it is cooked to perfection.
4. Rest and Serve
After cooking, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. Slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot. Flat iron steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
By following these simple steps, you can cook a delicious flat iron steak on the stove that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Checking the Doneness of the Flat Iron Steak
When cooking a flat iron steak on the stove, it’s important to check the doneness to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Here are a few methods you can use to check the doneness of your flat iron steak:
- Using a meat thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, being careful to avoid any bones. The internal temperature should be:
- Rare: 125°F (51°C)
- Medium rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium well: 155°F (68°C)
- Well done: 160°F (71°C) and above
- Using the touch test: Press the center of the steak with your finger or a pair of tongs. The steak should feel:
- Rare: very soft and squishy, with little to no resistance
- Medium rare: soft and yielding, with a slight resistance
- Medium: firm and springy, with some resistance
- Medium well: firm and slightly springy, with more resistance
- Well done: very firm and no give
- Using visual cues: Cut into the thickest part of the steak and examine the color of the meat:
- Rare: bright red center
- Medium rare: pink center
- Medium: slightly pink center
- Medium well: slightly pink to grayish center
- Well done: mostly grayish-brown center
Remember that the steak will continue to cook as it rests, so it’s best to remove it from the heat when it’s slightly below your desired doneness. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to develop.
Q&A
What is a flat iron steak?
A flat iron steak is a cut of beef that is taken from the shoulder blade area. It is well-marbled and known for its tenderness and flavor.
How do I cook a flat iron steak on the stove?
To cook a flat iron steak on the stove, start by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the desired level of doneness is reached. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How long does it take to cook a flat iron steak on the stove?
It usually takes about 8-10 minutes in total to cook a flat iron steak on the stove. However, the actual cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
What temperature should I cook a flat iron steak on the stove?
For medium-rare, the internal temperature of the flat iron steak should be around 135°F (57°C). To achieve this, you can cook the steak on the stove at medium-high heat.
Can I cook a flat iron steak to well done on the stove?
Yes, you can cook a flat iron steak to well done on the stove. However, keep in mind that a well-done flat iron steak may be less tender and juicy compared to one cooked to medium-rare or medium.