How to Cook Steak on a Blackstone?

How to Cook Steak on a Blackstone Griddle: A Definitive Guide

Cooking steak on a Blackstone griddle involves achieving a perfect sear and even cooking by utilizing the griddle’s consistent heat. You’ll preheat the griddle, season your steak liberally, and then use a combination of high and medium heat to cook it to your desired doneness, resulting in a delicious, restaurant-quality steak.

Why Blackstone Griddles Are Perfect for Steak

Blackstone griddles have surged in popularity for a good reason – their ability to deliver consistent, high heat across a large cooking surface makes them ideal for searing and cooking steaks. Unlike a grill, where heat can be uneven and flare-ups can scorch the meat, the flat top of a Blackstone provides even heat distribution, minimizing the risk of hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking. This results in a beautiful crust and perfectly cooked interior.

Benefits of Cooking Steak on a Blackstone

Cooking steak on a Blackstone offers several key advantages over traditional methods:

• Superior Sear: The flat top provides maximum surface contact, resulting in a deep, even sear.
• Even Cooking: Consistent heat distribution minimizes hot spots and ensures uniform doneness.
• Versatility: You can cook sides alongside your steak, making it a complete meal on one surface.
• Easy Cleanup: The non-stick surface is easy to scrape clean.
• Flavor Enhancement: The searing process caramelizes the natural sugars in the steak, creating a richer, more complex flavor.

Preparing Your Steak for the Blackstone

Proper preparation is crucial for achieving steak perfection on a Blackstone. This includes selecting the right cut, seasoning it effectively, and allowing it to come to room temperature.

• Choosing the Right Cut: Cuts like ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon are excellent choices for the Blackstone due to their marbling and tenderness. Thicker cuts, at least 1-inch thick, are generally preferred.
• Seasoning: Season generously with salt and pepper at least 30-60 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat and enhance its flavor. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak rub.
• Temperature: Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.

The Cooking Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to cook steak on a Blackstone griddle:

1. Preheat the Blackstone: Turn the griddle to medium-high heat. Aim for a surface temperature of around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Use an infrared thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
2. Prepare the Griddle: Lightly oil the griddle surface with a high smoke-point oil like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil. Avoid using butter at this stage, as it can burn at high temperatures.
3. Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the hot griddle and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare cook. Don’t move the steak around too much; let it develop a good crust.
4. Reduce Heat and Continue Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
5. Add Butter and Aromatics (Optional): In the last minute or two of cooking, you can add a knob of butter, garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the griddle to infuse the steak with flavor. Baste the steak with the melted butter.
6. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the griddle and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Recommended Internal Temperatures for Steak Doneness

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Preheating Properly: A properly preheated griddle is essential for achieving a good sear.
• Overcrowding the Griddle: Avoid overcrowding the griddle, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper searing.
• Moving the Steak Too Much: Resist the urge to move the steak around constantly. Allow it to sear undisturbed.
• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Resting the steak is crucial for retaining moisture and ensuring a tender result.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best oil to use for cooking steak on a Blackstone?

The best oils for cooking steak on a Blackstone are those with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, and peanut oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn at high temperatures. Using a high smoke point oil prevents acrid flavors from impacting your steak.

How do I prevent my steak from sticking to the Blackstone?

Ensure the Blackstone is properly preheated before adding the steak, and that the griddle surface is lightly oiled. A well-seasoned Blackstone also helps prevent sticking. Don’t try to move the steak until a crust has formed; it will release naturally when it’s ready.

Can I cook frozen steak on a Blackstone?

While it’s not recommended, you can cook frozen steak on a Blackstone, but it will be more challenging to achieve a good sear and even cooking. It’s best to thaw the steak completely before cooking. If you do cook from frozen, expect it to take significantly longer and require careful monitoring.

How do I know when my Blackstone is hot enough for steak?

Use an infrared thermometer to measure the surface temperature of the griddle. You’re aiming for a temperature of around 400-450°F (200-230°C) for searing steak. Alternatively, you can flick a few drops of water onto the griddle; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s hot enough.

Should I close the lid on my Blackstone while cooking steak?

Closing the lid can help to cook the steak more evenly, especially for thicker cuts. However, it can also trap moisture and prevent a good sear. Experiment to find what works best for you. Generally, leave the lid open for searing and close it for the final stages of cooking.

How long should I cook my steak on each side?

Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. As a general guideline, sear for 3-4 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

What are some good side dishes to cook alongside steak on a Blackstone?

The Blackstone is perfect for cooking sides like grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, and onions. You can also cook smashed potatoes, fried rice, or even sauteed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!

How do I clean my Blackstone after cooking steak?

Scrape the griddle surface with a metal spatula to remove any food residue. Then, pour a small amount of water onto the hot surface and scrape again. Wipe the griddle clean with a paper towel and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rusting.

Can I use butter to sear steak on a Blackstone?

While butter adds great flavor, it has a low smoke point and can burn easily. It’s best to use a high smoke point oil for searing and then add butter in the last minute or two of cooking to baste the steak for added flavor.

What’s the best way to get a good crust on my steak?

Ensure the Blackstone is properly preheated, the steak is dry, and the surface is lightly oiled. Don’t overcrowd the griddle or move the steak around too much. Let it sear undisturbed until a crust forms.

How do I prevent my steak from drying out on the Blackstone?

Avoid overcooking the steak. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook it to your desired doneness without exceeding the recommended internal temperature. Also, be sure to rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

What type of Blackstone griddle is best for cooking steak?

Any Blackstone griddle will work for cooking steak, but larger models offer more cooking space and allow you to cook sides alongside your steak. Consider the size of your family or the amount of food you typically cook when choosing a model. The 28″ or 36″ Blackstone griddles are popular choices for versatility.

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