Steak cooked on a cast iron skillet is a mouth-watering delicacy that promises a crispy and flavorful experience with every bite of the steak. However, cooking steak to perfection can be tricky, especially for beginners.
The cooking time and temperature are critical factors that can make or break the flavor and texture of your steak. To help you master the art of cooking steak on cast iron, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how long to cook steak on cast iron.
In this post, we will cover everything from the right recipe for cooking steak on cast iron to determining the ideal cooking time based on the thickness and desired level of doneness. Whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done steak, this guide will give you all the information you need always to achieve a perfectly cooked steak. So, grab your cast iron skillet, and prepare to cook the perfect steak.
How long to Cook Steak On Cast Iron
Cooking time and temperature for steak on cast iron may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, the desired level of doneness, and the stove’s heat. Here are general guidelines for cooking steak on cast iron for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side on high heat until a dark crust forms, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 125°F to 130°F (51°C to 54°C). The Total cooking time should be between 5-6 minutes.
- Medium-rare: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side on high heat until a dark crust forms, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). The Total cooking time should be between 6-8 minutes.
- Medium: Cook for 4-5 minutes per side on high heat until a dark crust forms, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 135-145°F (57-63°C). The Total cooking time should be between 8-10 minutes.
- Medium-well: Cook for 5-6 minutes per side on high heat until a dark crust forms, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 145-155°F (63-68°C). The Total cooking time should be between 10-12 minutes.
- Well done: Cook for 6-7 minutes per side on high heat until a dark crust forms, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be around 155-165°F (68-74°C). The Total cooking time should be between 12-14 minutes.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak; therefore, it is best always to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak reaches the desired level of doneness.
How Long Should I Cook Steak On Cast Iron
When it comes to cooking steak on cast iron, the cooking time will depend on many factors, including the temperature of the pan, the size and thickness of the steak, the desired doneness, and the personal preferences of those eating. Here’s a breakdown of each factor:
- The temperature of the pan: Cast iron retains heat very well, so it is important to preheat the pan before adding the steak. You want the pan to be hot, but not smoking. Heat the pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes before adding the steak.
- Size and thickness of the steak: The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the steak. Thicker steaks will require longer cooking times than thinner ones. As a general rule of thumb, for a 1-inch-thick steak, cook for 3-4 minutes per side for rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, and 5-6 minutes for medium. Adjust the cooking time up or down by a minute or two for thinner or thicker steaks.
- Desired doneness: The cooking time will also depend on the desired level. Rare steaks will have a cool center with some redness, medium-rare steaks will have a warm center with a pink color, medium steaks will have a hot centre with a slightly pink color, and well-done steaks will be cooked all the way through with no pink.
- Personal preferences: Some people may prefer their steak more or less cooked than the standard levels of doneness, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Family size: The amount of cooked steak will also impact the cooking time. They may take longer than just one steak if cooking multiple steaks at once.
- Diet: The cooking time may vary depending on the type of steak and the diet of those eating it. For example, a thicker cut of beef may take longer to cook than a thin cut of chicken or fish.
Cooking Time For The Perfect Cast Iron Cooked Steak
When it comes to cooking the perfect steak on cast iron, there are a few key factors to consider, including the thickness of the steak, the desired level of doneness, and the temperature of the pan. Here’s a table of ten different steak names and their recommended cooking time, cooking temperature, and internal temperature when cooking on cast iron:
Steak Name | Thickness | Desired Doneness | Cooking Time | Cooking Temperature | Internal Temperature |
Filet Mignon | 1 inch | Rare | 3-4 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 120-125°F |
Medium-rare | 4-5 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 130-135°F | ||
Medium | 5-6 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 135-145°F | ||
Ribeye | 1 inch | Rare | 3-4 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 120-125°F |
Medium-rare | 4-5 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 130-135°F | ||
Medium | 5-6 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 135-145°F | ||
New York Strip | 1 inch | Rare | 3-4 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 120-125°F |
Medium-rare | 4-5 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 130-135°F | ||
Medium | 5-6 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 135-145°F | ||
Sirloin | 1 inch | Rare | 3-4 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 120-125°F |
Medium-rare | 4-5 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 130-135°F | ||
Medium | 5-6 minutes | High heat (450°F) | 135-145°F |
Note: The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the steak, the desired level of doneness, and personal preferences. It is also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is safe for consumption.
How Long To Cast Iron Cook Steak At 150
It is not recommended to cook steak on cast iron at 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius) as this temperature is too low for cooking steak. The steak will not cook properly at this temperature, and you will end up with a tough and chewy piece of meat.
How Long To Cast Iron cook A 1-inch Steak at 200
Cooking a 1-inch steak on cast iron at 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) is not recommended. At this low temperature, the steak will not cook properly, and you will end up with a tough and chewy piece of meat.
The exact cooking time for steak on cast iron will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak should be cooked for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, and 6-7 minutes per side for medium-well.
How Long To Cast Iron Cook Steak At 300
Cooking steak on cast iron at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (149 degrees Celsius) is possible, but it is not the optimal temperature for cooking steak on cast iron. At this temperature, the steak will take longer to cook, and it will not develop a good sear on the outside of the steak.
How Long To Cast Iron Cook Cow tail Steak at 400
Cooking cow tail steak on cast iron at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) is possible, but it may not be the best way to cook this cut of meat. Cow tail meat is a tough cut that requires a little lower temperature than 400F and slow cooking to break down the tough fibers and make them tender and flavorful. A better way to cook cow tail steak is to braise it in a liquid at a low temperature for several hours until it becomes tender and falls off the bone.
If you do want to cook cow tail steak on cast iron, it’s important to keep in mind that this cut of meat will take longer to cook than a typical steak. As a general rule, cow tail steak should be cooked for about 20-30 minutes per side over medium heat, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
How Long To Cast Iron Cook Steak At 450
Cooking steak on cast iron at 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius) is an excellent way to achieve a perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This high heat will help create a caramelized crust on the steak, which locks in the juices and enhances the flavour.
To cook a 1-inch thick steak on cast iron at 450 degrees Fahrenheit, preheat your skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Place your steak in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 3-4 minutes per side for medium, and 4-5 minutes per side for medium-well.
Doneness Level For The Perfect Steak Cooked On Cast Iron
Cooking a steak on a cast iron pan is a great way to achieve a deliciously seared and flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To ensure that your steak is cooked to your liking, it is important to understand the different levels of doneness. The most common levels of doneness are:
- Rare: the steak is cooked quickly on high heat to an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C) and is bright red and cool in the centre.
- Medium rare: the steak is cooked a bit longer to an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) and has a warm red centre.
- Medium: the steak is cooked a bit longer to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and has a pink centre.
- Medium well: the steak is cooked longer to an internal temperature of 150°F (66°C) and has a slightly pink centre.
- Well done: the steak is cooked until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) or higher and has no pinkness.
Here is a table of the different types of steak and their recommended internal temperature for each level of doneness:
Steak Cut | Rare (120°F/49°C) | Medium Rare (130°F/54°C) | Medium (140°F/60°C) | Medium Well (150°F/66°C) | Well Done (160°F/71°C) |
Filet Mignon | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
Ribeye | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
Strip Steak | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
T-Bone | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
Sirloin | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
Flank Steak | 2-3 minutes | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 7+ minutes |
Skirt Steak | 2-3 minutes | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 7+ minutes |
Hanger Steak | 2-3 minutes | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 7+ minutes |
Porterhouse Steak | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
Chuck Eye Steak | 3-4 minutes | 4-5 minutes | 5-6 minutes | 6-7 minutes | 8+ minutes |
These are general guidelines, and the cooking time may vary depending on the steak’s thickness and the pan’s heat. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure optimal flavor and tenderness.
Cast Iron Cooked Steak Recipe: How to cook steak On Cast Iron
Cooking a steak on a cast iron pan is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a perfectly seared and juicy steak. Here is a recipe for cooking steak on cast iron:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 steak cuts (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or other high smoke point oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves (optional)
- Fresh herbs (optional)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons steak seasoning (such as Fiesta Brand® Uncle Chris’)
Instructions:
Remove the steak from the fridge and let it cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat the cast iron pan over high heat until it is very hot. Add the oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.
- Place the steak in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until a brown crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steak over and repeat on the other side.
- If desired, add the garlic and butter to the pan and let the butter melt and brown slightly. You can also add some fresh herbs at this point.
- Using the tongs, baste the steak with the melted butter and garlic. This will help the steak cook evenly and infuse it with extra flavor.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for 3-5 minutes, depending on the desired doneness.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Video of Cooking Steak on Cast Iron
How long should I cook a steak on cast iron for rare doneness?
To cook a steak on cast iron for rare doneness, you should cook it for about 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
How long should I cook a steak on cast iron for medium-rare doneness?
To cook a steak on cast iron for medium-rare doneness, you should cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. The steak’s internal temperature should be between 130F to rise to 135F.
How long should I cook a steak on cast iron for well-done doneness?
To cook a steak on cast iron for well-done doneness, you should cook it for about 8+ minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. The internal temperature should be between 155F to rise to 160F.
How do I know when my steak is cooked to the desired doneness on cast iron?
The best way to know if your steak is cooked to the desired doneness is to use an instant thermometer. For rare doneness, the internal temperature should be 120°F+ (49°C); for medium-rare, it should be 130°F+ (54°C); for the medium, it should be 140°F+ (60°C); for medium-well, it should be 150°F+ (66°C), and for well-done, it should be 160°F+ (71°C) or higher.
![](https://shiftychevre.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Chicken-in-a-Cast-Iron-Pot-Poule-au-Pot-500x500.jpg)
Cast Iron Cooked Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1-2 steak cuts (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or other high smoke point oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves (optional)
- Fresh herbs (optional)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons steak seasoning (such as Fiesta Brand® Uncle Chris’)
Instructions
- Remove the steak from the fridge and let it cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook more evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat the cast iron pan over high heat until it is very hot. Add the oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.
- Place the steak in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until a brown crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steak over and repeat on the other side.
- If desired, add the garlic and butter to the pan and let the butter melt and brown slightly. You can also add some fresh herbs at this point.
- Using the tongs, baste the steak with the melted butter and garlic. This will help the steak cook evenly and infuse it with extra flavor.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for 3-5 minutes, depending on the desired doneness.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Video
Conclusion
Cooking steak on cast iron is a great way to achieve a perfect sear and delicious steak flavor. The cooking time for steak on cast iron will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, thicker cuts of steak will require longer cooking times, while thinner cuts will cook more quickly.
We have looked at the cooking time for various types of steaks and the factors that lead to the cooking time. We have also learned that measuring your steak’s internal temperature is important to achieve the desired doneness.