Hey Readers,
Are you tired of overcooked or undercooked steaks? Well, you’re in luck. We’re here to give you the ultimate guide on how long to grill steak for that perfect medium-rare, medium, or well-done doneness. So, grab a pen and paper, and let’s dive right in!
Factors to Consider
Before we delve into the grilling times, let’s first discuss the factors that influence how long to grill a steak:
Thickness of the Steak
The thicker the steak, the longer it will take to cook through. For instance, a 1-inch thick steak will take longer to grill than a 1/2-inch thick steak.
Cut of the Steak
Different cuts of steak have varying thicknesses and fat content, which affects their grilling times. For example, a ribeye steak is typically thicker and fattier than a flank steak, so it will take longer to grill.
Grilling Time by Doneness
Now, let’s get down to business and explore the grilling times for different levels of doneness:
Rare (120-125°F)
- Grill for 1-2 minutes per side over high heat, depending on the thickness.
Medium-Rare (125-130°F)
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side over high heat, then reduce heat to medium for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Medium (130-135°F)
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side over high heat, then reduce heat to medium for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Medium-Well (135-140°F)
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side over high heat, then reduce heat to medium for an additional 4-5 minutes.
Well-Done (140°F and above)
- Grill for 5-6 minutes per side over high heat, then reduce heat to medium for an additional 5-6 minutes.
Grill Temperature
The temperature of your grill also plays a vital role in grilling time.
Direct Grilling
- High heat: 450-500°F
- Medium heat: 350-400°F
Indirect Grilling
- Low heat: 225-250°F
Steak Grilling Times Table
For your convenience, here’s a quick reference table summarizing the grilling times:
| Doneness | Grilling Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 4-8 |
| Medium-Rare | 9-13 |
| Medium | 14-19 |
| Medium-Well | 19-23 |
| Well-Done | 24-29 |
Ending Notes
There you have it, folks! Grilling the perfect steak is all about finding the right balance between thickness, cut, grilling time, and temperature. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be a grilling master in no time.
If you’re looking for more grilling inspiration, be sure to check out our other articles on grilling techniques, recipes, and accessories. Thanks for reading, and happy grilling!
FAQ about How Long to Grill Steak
How long should I grill a steak to get a rare doneness?
- 2-3 minutes per side over high heat
How long should I grill a steak to get a medium-rare doneness?
- 4-5 minutes per side over high heat
How long should I grill a steak to get a medium doneness?
- 6-7 minutes per side over high heat
How long should I grill a steak to get a medium-well doneness?
- 8-9 minutes per side over high heat
How long should I grill a steak to get a well-done doneness?
- 10-12 minutes per side over high heat
How do I know when my steak is done grilling?
- Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the steak. See the target temperatures below:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Medium-well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 145°F (63°C) and above
How thick should my steak be for grilling?
- 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)
What is the best way to season a steak before grilling?
- Season generously with salt and pepper, and add any other desired seasonings.
Should I marinate my steak before grilling?
- Marinating is not necessary, but it can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the steak. Do not marinate longer than 24 hours.
How long should I let my steak rest after grilling?
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
