Cooking steak medallions in the pan is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a tender and juicy piece of beef. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium rare, or well done, this method will help you achieve the perfect level of doneness.

To start, choose a high-quality steak, such as filet mignon, for the best results. Allow the steak to come to room temperature by taking it out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure even cooking throughout the steak.

Next, season the steak with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning mix. For added flavor, you can also marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight. This will infuse the meat with extra richness and taste.

Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan to prevent the steak from sticking. Once the pan is hot, place the steak medallions in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the desired doneness. Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to flip the steak halfway through cooking.

For rare steak, cook for 3 minutes on each side. For medium rare, cook for 4 minutes on each side. For medium, cook for 5 minutes on each side. And for well done, cook for 6 minutes on each side. Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the steak and personal preference.

Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more tender and flavorful steak. Serve the steak medallions with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak medallions and savor every bite of this indulgent and satisfying dish!

Methods of Cooking Steak Medallions in a Pan

Steak medallions are a delicious and tender cut of meat that is perfect for pan-searing. There are several methods you can use to cook steak medallions in a pan, each with its own unique cooking technique and flavor profile.

1. Searing

One of the most popular methods of cooking steak medallions in a pan is searing. Searing involves cooking the medallions over high heat for a short amount of time to create a flavorful crust. To sear steak medallions, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and let it heat up.
  3. Season the medallions with salt and pepper, or your desired seasoning.
  4. Place the medallions in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
  5. Remove the medallions from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. Pan-roasting

Another method you can use to cook steak medallions in a pan is pan-roasting. Pan-roasting involves searing the medallions on the stovetop and then finishing them in the oven. To pan-roast steak medallions, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Preheat an oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and let it heat up.
  4. Season the medallions with salt and pepper, or your desired seasoning.
  5. Place the medallions in the pan and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the medallions reach your desired level of doneness.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven and let the medallions rest for a few minutes before serving.
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3. Butter-basting

If you want to add a rich and indulgent flavor to your steak medallions, you can try butter-basting. Butter-basting involves continuously spooning melted butter over the medallions as they cook. To butter-baste steak medallions, follow these steps:

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  1. Preheat your pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and let it heat up.
  3. Season the medallions with salt and pepper, or your desired seasoning.
  4. Place the medallions in the pan and sear them for 2 minutes on each side.
  5. Add a few tablespoons of butter to the pan and let it melt.
  6. Using a spoon, continuously baste the medallions with the melted butter for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
  7. Remove the medallions from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Method Cooking Time
Searing 4-6 minutes
Pan-roasting 10-15 minutes
Butter-basting 6-8 minutes

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to let the steak medallions rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final dish.

Preparing the Steak Medallions

Before you start cooking your steak medallions, it’s important to make sure they are properly prepared. Follow these steps to ensure you have tender and flavorful medallions:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat

When it comes to steak medallions, you want to choose a cut of meat that is tender and well-marbled. Look for cuts such as filet mignon, tenderloin, or ribeye. These cuts are known for their tenderness and rich flavor.

2. Season the Medallions

Before cooking, season the medallions with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, steak seasoning, or herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Note: Allow the seasoned medallions to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them cook more evenly and result in a juicier steak.

3. Preheat the Pan

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the medallions. This will help create a nice sear on the outside of the steak.

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4. Add Oil to the Pan

Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable oil or olive oil. Make sure the oil is evenly distributed across the pan.

Pro tip: You can also use butter for extra flavor and richness, but be careful not to burn it.

5. Sear the Medallions

Place the seasoned medallions in the hot pan and let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This will give them a nice brown crust and lock in the juices.

Important: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the medallions in batches if necessary, giving each piece enough space to properly sear.

Once the medallions are seared to your liking, you can continue cooking them in the pan or transfer them to a preheated oven to finish cooking to the desired doneness.

Following these steps will help you prepare delicious and tender steak medallions that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Seasoning the Steak Medallions

Before cooking your steak medallions, it’s essential to season them to enhance the flavor. Seasoning is a crucial step in any cooking process, and it can make a significant difference in the final taste of your dish.

Here are a few simple steps to help you season your steak medallions:

1. Choose your seasoning

There are many seasoning options available for steak medallions, but some popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs. You can also experiment with different spice blends or marinades to add extra flavor.

2. Dry the steak

Prior to seasoning your steak medallions, ensure that they are patted dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the seasonings to adhere better to the meat’s surface, resulting in a more evenly flavored and crusty exterior.

3. Season generously

Once your steak medallions are dry, season them generously with your chosen seasonings. Be sure to coat all sides of the steak evenly to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

It is best to use your hands to rub the seasonings onto the steak, making sure that they are evenly distributed. This will ensure that all the flavors are well incorporated into the meat.

Note: If you are using salt, it is recommended to season the steak just before cooking, as salt tends to draw out moisture from the meat, resulting in a drier steak if left for too long.

Remember, the amount of seasoning you use is a matter of personal preference. Feel free to adjust the quantities according to your taste.

Now that you have seasoned your steak medallions, it’s time to move on to the next step in the cooking process.

Preheating the Pan

Before cooking steak medallions in a pan, it’s important to preheat the pan properly. This helps to create a nice sear on the outside of the steak and lock in the juices.

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Start by choosing a heavy-bottomed pan, such as a cast iron skillet, that will distribute heat evenly. Place the pan on the stove over medium-high heat.

While the pan is heating up, season the steak medallions with salt and pepper or your preferred seasonings. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even coating.

Once the pan is heated, add a thin layer of cooking oil such as olive oil or vegetable oil. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the pan.

Wait for the oil to shimmer and ripple. This indicates that the pan is hot enough and ready for the steak medallions to be added.

It’s important not to overcrowd the pan. Leave enough space between the medallions to allow for proper cooking and browning. Cook the steak medallions for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a more well-done steak.

Take care not to overcook the steak medallions, as they can become tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, aiming for around 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.

Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the steak medallions from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Preheating the pan properly is an important step in cooking steak medallions in the pan. It ensures that the meat gets a nice sear while staying juicy and flavorful.

FAQ

What are steak medallions?

Steak medallions are small, round cuts of beef that are typically about 1-2 inches thick. They are often taken from the tenderloin or sirloin cuts of beef and are known for their tenderness and rich flavor.

How do I choose the best steak medallions?

When choosing steak medallions, it’s important to look for cuts that are evenly sized and have a good amount of marbling. The marbling, or small streaks of fat, helps to enhance the flavor and juiciness of the steak. Additionally, opt for cuts that are deep red in color, as this indicates freshness.

Can I cook steak medallions in a regular pan?

Yes, you can cook steak medallions in a regular pan. It’s best to use a heavy-bottomed pan, such as a cast iron skillet, to ensure even heat distribution. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat before adding the medallions.

What is the ideal cooking time for steak medallions?

The ideal cooking time for steak medallions depends on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the medallions. As a general guideline, cook the medallions for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. For medium, cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you prefer your steak more or less cooked.