Cooking tenderloin steak on a stove is a popular method for those who don’t have a grill or prefer the convenience and control of cooking on the stovetop. Tenderloin steaks are known for their tenderness and rich flavor, making them a favorite cut of meat for many steak lovers.
When it comes to cooking tenderloin steak on the stove, the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. A general guideline is to cook a 1-inch-thick tenderloin steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes per side for medium. However, it’s important to note that cooking times may vary based on the heat of your stove and personal preference.
To achieve the desired level of doneness, it’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read 135°F (57°C), while medium should be around 145°F (63°C). Remember to insert the thermometer from the side to get an accurate reading.
For best results, it’s also essential to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This will help ensure a juicy and flavorful steak. To keep the steak warm, you can loosely cover it with foil during the resting period.
Overall, cooking tenderloin steak on the stove is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a delicious steak in the comfort of your home. By following these cooking guidelines and using a meat thermometer, you can achieve the perfect level of doneness and savor the tender and flavorful results.
Preparation
Before cooking the tenderloin steak on the stove, it is important to properly prepare the meat. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and tender steak:
Step 1: | Remove the tenderloin steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will allow for more even cooking. |
Step 2: | Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear. |
Step 3: | Season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, or a steak rub. Make sure to season all sides of the steak evenly. |
Step 4: | Preheat your stovetop grill or skillet over medium-high heat. It is important to use a skillet or grill that can withstand high heat. |
Step 5: | Add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet or grill to prevent the steak from sticking. |
Step 6: | Place the seasoned tenderloin steak onto the hot skillet or grill. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. |
Step 7: | Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). |
Step 8: | Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet or grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. |
Step 9: | Slice the tenderloin steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve and enjoy! |
Choosing the right cut
When cooking tenderloin steak on the stove, it is important to choose the right cut. The tenderloin is a long, narrow muscle located on the back of the cow. It is one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of beef.
Filet Mignon
The filet mignon is the most prized cut of the tenderloin. It is also the most expensive. This cut is known for being incredibly tender and juicy. It has a mild flavor and a fine texture. Filet mignon is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal.
T-Bone and Porterhouse
The T-bone and Porterhouse cuts include a section of the tenderloin along with a larger portion of the striploin. This combination of both cuts provides two different textures and flavors in one steak. The tenderloin section is smaller but more tender, while the striploin section is larger and has a richer flavor.
When choosing a T-bone or Porterhouse steak, make sure the tenderloin portion is well-marbled and bright red in color. This indicates a high-quality cut of meat.
Keep in mind that the size of the tenderloin can vary between different cuts and steaks. Some cuts may be thicker or thinner, so it is important to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Gather the ingredients
Before you cook your tenderloin steak on the stove, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- 1 tenderloin steak
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Garlic cloves (optional)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
Having these ingredients ready will ensure that you can easily follow the cooking process and achieve the best results.
Cooking process
Before cooking the tenderloin steak on the stove, it’s important to prepare the meat and gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a perfectly cooked tenderloin steak:
1. Prepare the steak
Start by taking the tenderloin steak out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly. Additionally, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season the steak
Season the steak with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings. Make sure to season both sides of the steak and gently rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even distribution.
3. Preheat the stove
Place a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and preheat it for a few minutes. This will help ensure that the steak cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
4. Cook the steak
Once the skillet or pan is preheated, carefully place the seasoned steak into the pan. Allow the steak to cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred level of doneness.
5. Rest the steak
After cooking, remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices in the steak to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
6. Serve and enjoy
Slice the cooked tenderloin steak against the grain and serve it immediately. You can pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
---|---|
Rare | 125°F (52°C) |
Medium Rare | 135°F (57°C) |
Medium | 145°F (63°C) |
Medium Well | 150°F (66°C) |
Well Done | 160°F (71°C) |
Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your perfectly cooked tenderloin steak!
Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the tenderloin steak on the stove, it is important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some tips on how to season your steak:
1. Salt: Generously sprinkle kosher salt or sea salt on both sides of the steak. This helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
2. Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick to the steak. Grind the pepper directly onto the steak, covering both sides.
3. Garlic: Crush a few cloves of garlic and rub them all over the steak. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste to the meat.
4. Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be added to the steak for extra flavor. Sprinkle them on top or rub them onto the meat.
5. Oil: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or vegetable oil over the seasoned steak. This helps to prevent sticking and adds moisture to the meat.
6. Marinating: For an even more flavorful steak, you can marinate it in a mixture of your choice. Common marinades include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a combination of herbs and spices.
Note: Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes after seasoning to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once you have seasoned the steak, it is ready to be cooked on the stove using your preferred cooking method.
Preheating the skillet
Before cooking your tenderloin steak on the stove, it’s important to preheat the skillet properly. Preheating ensures that the steak cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust.
Here’s how to preheat your skillet:
- Place the skillet on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Allow the skillet to heat for about 5 minutes or until it becomes hot.
- During this time, you can season your steak with salt, pepper, or any other desired seasonings.
Preheating the skillet properly is an essential step to achieve a perfectly cooked tenderloin steak on the stove.
Cooking the steak
After preparing your tenderloin steak, it’s time to cook it on the stove. The stovetop method is great for achieving that perfect sear and caramelization on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here’s how you can cook your tenderloin steak on the stove:
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. This will help create a nice crust on the steak. |
2 | Season the steak with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning. Make sure to evenly coat both sides. |
3 | Add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, to the preheated skillet. Swirl the oil around to coat the pan evenly. |
4 | Place the steak in the hot skillet. Cook one side for about 4-6 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust forms. |
5 | Flip the steak using tongs or a spatula. Cook the other side for another 4-6 minutes, or until the desired level of doneness is reached. |
6 | For a more accurate measure of doneness, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). |
7 | Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become even more tender. |
8 | Slice the steak against the grain and serve it hot. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite side dishes. |
With this stovetop method, you can achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked tenderloin steak right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Q&A
How long should I cook tenderloin steak on the stove?
The cooking time for tenderloin steak on the stove depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, for a 1-inch thick steak, cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium rare, 5-6 minutes for medium, and 6-7 minutes for medium well.
What is the best way to cook tenderloin steak on the stove?
The best way to cook tenderloin steak on the stove is to first sear it on high heat for about 2 minutes on each side to achieve a nice crust, and then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Can I cook tenderloin steak on the stove without searing it?
While it is possible to cook tenderloin steak on the stove without searing it first, searing helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the steak. It is recommended to sear the steak for a few minutes on each side before continuing to cook it.
How do I know when the tenderloin steak is cooked?
To determine the doneness of the tenderloin steak, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 130°F (54°C) for medium rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium well. Alternatively, you can use the touch method, where the steak will feel different when pressed with your finger depending on the level of doneness.
Can I cook tenderloin steak on the stove if it’s frozen?
It is not recommended to cook tenderloin steak on the stove if it’s frozen, as it will result in uneven cooking and potentially a less desirable texture. It is best to thaw the steak completely before cooking it on the stove for the best results.
What’s the best way to cook a tenderloin steak on the stove?
The best way to cook a tenderloin steak on the stove is to first preheat the pan on medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, and then sear it in the hot pan for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done.